Hyundai Reveals Kona Electric Vehicle

Hyundai reveals the production-ready Kona Electric small CUV ahead of the Geneva auto show.

The new model features short- and long-range drivetrain options with ranges of 180 miles (300 km) and 282 miles (470 km). It is expected to go on sale throughout Europe following the Geneva show.

Details of its release in Korea and the U.S. have not been provided, and pricing for any of the markets has not been revealed.

The exterior virtually apes currently available Kona models except for the single charge port on the front end. The rear bumper configuration is slightly different and a spoiler adds to its sporty appearance.

The long-range version features a 150-kW, 204-hp permanent magnet synchronous motor that yields 291 lb.-ft. (395 Nm) maximum torque, with a top speed rating of 104 mph (167 km/h). Power is stored in a 64-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. Fast charging to 80% takes 54 minutes and a full charge is estimated to take 9 hours and 40 minutes.

The short-range model has a 99-kW, 135-hp version of the same motor type that is powered by a 39.2-kWh Li-ion polymer battery. Maximum torque and speed is identical to that of the long-range powertrain. Fast charge to 80% takes 54 minutes and full charge is estimated at 6 hours and 10 minutes.

The long-range version can clock 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.6 seconds, while the short-range version is considerably slower at 9.3 seconds.

Both versions feature a shift-by-wire operation module, regenerative braking system, 7-in. supervision cluster and head-up display.

The Kona Electric is available with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and other infotainment features. Its active-safety and driver-assist features include forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, blindspot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, driver-attention warning and speed-limit warning.