Hyundai has launched the Kona Electric SUV in the Indian market at INR 25.30 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom, India). The all-electric SUV will be imported to India as CKD (completely-knocked-down) unit. Hyundai has also managed to achieve small level of localisation in order to keep its costs in check.
In terms of exterior looks and design, the Hyundai Kona Electric shares exact same visuals at its ICE powered model but the only small difference is the absence of the front grille and exhausts. Also, it comes with unique 17-inch alloy wheels and the badging which delineates its individuality. It also features automatic LED headlights, LED tail-lights, plastic body cladding and roof rails. And will be available in four different solid colour options such as white, silver, blue and black. There will be a single dual-tone exterior colour option (white with black roof) at an additional cost of INR 20,000.
On the inside, the Hyundai Kona Electric features a 7.0-inch driver information display, automatic climate control, head-up display, wireless charging and a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system which supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Other comfort and convenience features include ventilated/heated front seats, powered sunroof, 10-way adjustable electric driver seat with lumbar support and electric power brake with autohold.
Features such as 6 airbags, hill-start assist, ABS with EBD, ESC, rear parking sensors and a rear camera, traction control, tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix child seat mounts are part of Kona EV's standard safety kit. What's interesting to note is that Hyundai Kona Electric also comes with Virtual Engine Sound System, this feature virtually generates the sound of an internal combustion engine.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is available with permanent magnet synchronous motor which is good enough to produce an output equivalent of 136 PS and 395 Nm of torque. The electric motor gets its juice from a 39.2 kWh battery with has an ARAI-certified driving range of 452 km on a full charge. The Hyundai Kona Electric is claimed to do 0-100 km/h in not more than 9.7 seconds which is pretty quick for an SUV of its size.
Its Lithium-ion battery pack can be fully charged using a 50 kW DC fast charger in no more than 57 minutes, while the standard AC source charges the same in close to 6hr 10min. The Hyundai Kona Electric also uses adjustable regenerative braking and is offered in three driving modes - Eco, Comfort and Sport.
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The Hyundai Kona Electric is offered with a 3-year/unlimited warranty as standard. Its high-voltage battery comes with 8-year/1,60,000 km warranty. It will rival the likes of the upcoming MG eZS which was spotted earlier and is scheduled for arrival in December 2019.
