Hyundai has unveiled a battery-electric version of the Kona crossover, the company’s first compact electric crossover for the U.S. market, which it hopes appeals to consumers with active, eco-focused lifestyles of all kinds.
“Our new Kona Electric crossover is a stylish and efficient compact CUV, tailored to the needs of customers who pursue eco-focused active lifestyles requiring generous range,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America.
“We’re confident it will set new standards for the electric-propelled compact CUV segment, with outstanding range flexibility, appealing design, cutting-edge connectivity and class-leading available safety features,” O’Brien added.
Hyundai introduced the gasoline version of the Kona in early summer to generally favorable reviews.
(Hyundai ready to turn Kona EV loose. Click Here for the story.)
Kona Electric offers an efficient electric drivetrain with a range of 258 miles on a single charge, which is longer than rivals such as the Chevrolet Bolt Nissan Leaf and the Volkswagen eGolf.
The vehicle’s highlights include a High-efficiency 201 horsepower (150 kW), 291 lb.-ft. electric motor powertrain, High-voltage 64 kWh lithium-ion battery, Standard floating touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support and Hyundai Smart Sense.
Advanced safety features are also available on Kona Electric, including Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.
Hyundai officials also said the Kona electric also has confident handling in a variety of urban and adventure-oriented driving environments. As joins Hyundai’s successful line-up of crossovers for the U.S. market will be available in the beginning of 201 in California and subsequently in the ZEV-focused states in the western and northeastern regions of the U.S. market.
(Click Here for more about 2019 Hyundai Veloster.)
Kona Electric employs the geometric body forms and contours for a modern, eco-oriented appearance. Its distinctive design is reinforced by the car’s voluminous, futuristic body styling that emphasizes its well-proportioned, dynamic silhouette.
A low and wide stance complements its profile, with a long wheelbase and short overhangs, ensuring sporty, nimble handling and control, in addition to delivering superior driving stability at highway speeds. Aero-tuned wheel arch and rear fascia cladding combines with LED lighting to create a high-tech eco appearance.
The electric charging port is seamlessly integrated with this grille area for convenient, head-in parking at charging stations.
As with the front LED arrangement, the rear light configuration also gives the Kona electric signature appearance. The slim brake lights, turn indicators and reverse lamps are in a separated configuration, surrounded by protective skin that begins at the C-pillar garnish.
(To see more about Hyundai’s expanding line-up of SUVs, Click Here.)
The rear bumper fascia conveys an inverse wave-form design element that simultaneously conveys ruggedness and a future-oriented powertrain.
NOW we’re talkin’! By next summer, I’ll be able to sit down with FOUR dealers… Hyundai, Kia, Chevy and Nissan..and see who can give me the best deal on an electric vehicle I can afford.
AND VW in 2020!