By Dr V Palanivel 
The Hyundai Kona Electric is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering a perfect blend of futuristic technology, efficiency, and affordability. As India’s EV landscape grows, the Kona Electric stands out as one of the most well-rounded options for eco-conscious drivers. In this article, we’ll explore its real-world range, features, and hidden perks, along with essential specifications such as mileage, top speed, price in India, and the expected launch date.
Hyundai Kona Electric: A Brief Overview
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a fully electric subcompact SUV designed for urban and highway driving. It boasts a stylish design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance, making it a preferred choice for those transitioning to electric mobility.
Powertrain and Performance
The Kona Electric is powered by a 39.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which delivers a maximum power output of 136 PS and 395 Nm of torque. This allows for quick acceleration and smooth driving dynamics. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup ensures a comfortable and stable ride, whether in city traffic or on long highway stretches.
For those looking for more power, Hyundai also offers a 64 kWh battery variant in global markets, producing 204 PS and 395 Nm of torque, enhancing performance and range.
Top Speed and Acceleration
Top Speed: 155 km/h
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 9.7 seconds (for the 39.2 kWh variant)
Real-World Range and Mileage
Hyundai claims that the Kona Electric, with its 39.2 kWh battery, can achieve a claimed range of 452 km (ARAI-certified) on a single charge. However, real-world conditions such as traffic, terrain, and driving habits impact the mileage.
City Driving: Approx. 300-350 km
Highway Driving: Approx. 280-320 km
The Kona Electric supports fast charging, allowing an 80% charge in just 57 minutes with a 50 kW DC fast charger. With a standard AC home charger, a full charge takes around 6 hours.
Features and Technology
Exterior Design
The Hyundai Kona Electric sports a modern and aerodynamic design, featuring a closed-off grille, LED headlamps, and sleek body lines. The 17-inch alloy wheels, sculpted bumpers, and stylish DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) enhance its futuristic appeal.
Interior and Comfort
The cabin of the Kona Electric is spacious and premium, offering a clutter-free dashboard with intuitive controls. Key interior highlights include:
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Wireless charging pad
Ventilated and heated front seats
Leather upholstery
Electric sunroof
Ambient lighting
Automatic climate control
Safety Features
Hyundai has equipped the Kona Electric with top-notch safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers. These include:
6 airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Hill Start Assist
ABS with EBD
Rear parking sensors with a camera
Blind-spot monitoring
Forward collision warning
Hidden Perks of the Hyundai Kona Electric
While the standard features are impressive, the Kona Electric also comes with some lesser-known perks:
Regenerative Braking: Adjustable regenerative braking helps maximize range by converting kinetic energy into electric power.
Paddle Shifters for Regeneration: Instead of traditional gear shifts, the paddle shifters allow drivers to control the level of regenerative braking.
Smart Eco Pedal Guide: The system suggests optimal pedal usage to enhance efficiency.
Remote Climate Control: You can pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin using Hyundai’s Blue Link app.
Price in India and Expected Launch Date
The Hyundai Kona Electric is currently available in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹23.84 lakh. Hyundai is expected to introduce an updated version in late 2024, potentially offering improved battery performance and additional features.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compelling choice for EV buyers in India. With its impressive real-world range, cutting-edge features, and hidden perks, it delivers an efficient and enjoyable driving experience. Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly daily driver or a futuristic SUV packed with technology, the Kona Electric stands out as a top contender in the electric vehicle market.
Read also: Tata avinyas mind blowing features that will redefine luxury evs,