It may not be the prettiest new car in Hyundai’s
modern lineup, but the Kona Electric is one of the most important. And that’s
for an obvious reason: its battery-powered.
The zero-emission powertrain channels 201 hp and 395N m of torque to the front wheels. Performance specs have yet
to be announced, but the manufacturer promises an estimated 402 km of range, thanks to the 64kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Running out of juice shouldn’t be a major problem if
you’re near a fast-charging station, because Hyundai offers a Level II on-board
charging system. With this, users plugging in the Kona Electric will see the
battery filled up to 80 percent in 54 minutes. Moreover, the company estimates
an energy efficiency of 117MPGe, which, on paper, is more impressive than the
Nissan Leaf or Tesla Model X.
Looking at the 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric from most
angles might fool some into thinking it’s a gasoline-powered version. The design of the front bumper around the grille area is what gives it away as
a zero-emission vehicle.
Most of the interior remains unchanged, but the
electric crossover does get an important addition compared to the rest of the
family: a raised center console, with different buttons performing various
functions, and a couple of cupholders.
The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric will go on sale in
California in the fourth quarter of the year, likely followed by other states
in 2019. Visitors at the New York Auto Show will see it
live until April 8.
