Hyundai Shows Off the Future in the World’s First Fully-Electric Subcompact SUV, the Kona

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February 28, 2018

The Hyundai Kona entered the automotive scene last June, bringing with it style and a funky vibe. Yet even in its infancy stage, the Kona, named after the Hawaiian district that caters to adventure seekers, spawns a new variant that one can call future-proof. Why? Because it’s electric

The Hyundai Kona Electric combines the zero-emissions mobility of the future with one of the fastest-growing segments in the automotive industry—the Sport Utility Vehicle. Retaining the chic looks of the internal combustion engine-equipped version, this one can be distinguished thanks to a new closed-off grille and revised front bumper that give it better aerodynamics.

At the side, silver sills help tell this model apart from the standard version, as does a mildy tweaked roof spoiler that again, improves aero efficiency. The look is finished off by exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels.

Passengers will revel in the slew of luxury features that are fitted in the new Kona Electric. Eight-way power-adjustable front seats with a 2-way power lumbar support for the driver are part of the package. These can even be cooled or heated, along with the heated steering wheel. And there is a new 7-inch touchscreen that sits at the center of the dash.

But the biggest news brought by this new SUV is what’s under the hood. There are a couple of electric motors that can power the Kona Electric: a base 133hp, 395Nm fully-electric mill with a 39.2kWh battery that can accelerate the SUV from 0-100kph in 9.3 seconds and last up to 300kms. Or, a 201hp motor with a 64kWh battery that’s good for a rest to 100kph sprint in 7.6 ticks. It, says the Worldwide Light vehicle Test Program, can go up to 470kms before topping up.

Speaking of charging, Hyundai says that the base 39.2kWh battery will need 6 hours and 10 minutes to charge. Its 64kWh counterpart will require around 9 hours and 40 minutes to recharge. Those in a hurry can use a 100kw DC fst charger that can achieve 80% juice in just 54 minutes.

Hyundai’s Kona, the world’s first fully-electric subcompact SUV will be displayed at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show next week.

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.