Hyundai has just launched its first electric SUV for India, the Hyundai Kona. The Kona is priced at Rs 25.30 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be available in single variant from this month onwards.
The Hyundai Kona is finally an electric vehicle that can be used for daily commutes easily and even do the occasional inter-city trip just like a normal petrol or diesel car. It will be available only in select cities.
We get a quick preview of the Hyundai Kona and here are some frequently asked questions about the Kona that we now have answers to.
What Range Does the Hyundai Kona Have?
The moment you mention an electric vehicle, the first thing people think ask is: "Where am I going to charge it?". That's a valid concern and "range anxiety" is something that most electric vehicle buyers suffer from.
However, it looks like Hyundai has probably sorted that out with its first electric SUV for India, the Hyundai Kona. The Hyundai Kona EV has a claimed (and ARAI certified) range of 452 Km per charge. That kind of range puts it at par with its fossil-fuel guzzling diesel and petrol counterparts.
How Long Does It Take To Charge a Hyundai Kona?
The Hyundai Kona that has been launched in India comes with a 39.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It can be charged either by a regular 15 amp wall socket in your home, in which case it takes about six hours for a full charge.
If you are in a bit of a hurry, you could go to the nearest Hyundai dealership, which is equipped with a DC fast-charging system, and charge the Kona upto 80 percent battery level in just 54 minutes or about the time it takes to charge your smartphone.
Hope Hyundai dealers serve good coffee while we wait!
How Much Power Does the Kona Put Out?
The Hyundai Kona electric will be powered by a 136 PS electric motor that puts out 395 Nm torque, good for a top speed of 155 kmph. It is front-wheel drive.
There are no gears as such, but it does have paddle shifts behind the steering column to adjust the amount of brake force from regenerative braking. Regenerative braking puts back some charge in the batteries while on the move. Forward, reverse, park positions are selected by buttons on the centre console.
There's also a more powerful version that has a 204 PS motor with a top speed of 167 kmph. The second version has a bigger 64 kWh battery pack as well.
What Features Does the Hyundai Kona Have?
Hyundai is known for loading its vehicles with features and the Kona is no different. It comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that has Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. Besides that, it also doubles up as a full information system on the vehicle's battery status and charging. Navigation, reverse camera etc are all part of the deal.
On the safety front, it gets six airbags, ABS, traction control etc. Since it is equipped with low-rolling resistance tyres, some amount of wheel-spin happens due to the immense torque, and that's why traction control is necessary.
It also gets Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity system that allows you to remotely monitor the vehicle and change settings as needed. Other features of note: LED projector headlamps, ventilated front seats and a heads-up display.
Should You Pick a Hyundai Tucson Petrol/Diesel Over a Hyundai Kona?
This is a tough one. Buying an electric SUV at this point is only meant for the early adopters and the ones who want to do their bit to stay green. Sure, it is about 80 percent cheaper to run than an equivalent petrol SUV like the Hyundai Tucson. If you consider ownership costs over a five-year period, the Hyundai Kona electric makes perfect sense.
With less moving parts, it's also much easier to maintain. No frequent oil and filter changes need. Those who will be using the vehicle to commute mainly in the city, will find the Kona fairly practical to use.
However, it is quite small. In terms of size it's smaller than the Hyundai Creta, but has a price tag that's a little more than the Hyundai Tucson. The Hyundai Kona will suit those who are looking at a green, city car. And of course, it comes with bragging rights.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)