FYI: The Hyundai Kona Electric challenges the notion that EVs built on traditional gas platforms are inferior to dedicated EV designs.
Electric Car Enthusiasm: The Debate and the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
Electric vehicle enthusiasts have strong opinions about the engineering and specifications of their cars, similar in fervor to the Mac vs. PC debates of the early 2000s. Topics like battery types, voltage systems, and charging capabilities often dominate discussions. A recurring theme in these debates is the preference for cars designed exclusively as EVs versus those adapted from gas-powered models.
Dedicated EV Platform vs. Adapted Gas Platform
There’s a prevalent belief among EV aficionados that cars built from scratch as EVs—such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Tesla Model 3—are superior to those adapted from internal combustion engine (ICE) models, like the Audi Q8 E-Tron. However, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric challenges this notion. Despite sharing a platform with its gas-powered sibling, the new Kona Electric offers compelling reasons to reconsider the conventional wisdom.
2024 Hyundai Kona Electric: A Close Look
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric shares its chassis with gas-powered counterparts but manages to stand out. Hyundai enthusiasts might wrinkle their noses at this, but in practice, the Kona Electric performs admirably, arguably surpassing some dedicated-platform EVs.
Price and Specifications
- Base Price: $34,270
- Battery Options: 48.6 kWh (SE), 64.8 kWh (SEL, N-Line, Limited)
- Drive Type: FWD
- Range: 200 miles (SE), 230 miles (N-Line), 261 miles (SEL, Limited)
- Motor Output: 133 hp (SE), 201 hp (SEL, N-Line, Limited)
- 0-60 MPH: 7.0 seconds (SEL, Limited)
- Charge Time: 10-80% in 43 minutes
- Observed Efficiency: 4.0 mi/kWh
Driving Experience
The Kona Electric’s underlying architecture doesn’t deviate much from the familiar small car platform seen in the Kia Niro and Hyundai Elantra. Despite its weight, the Kona Electric is still comfortable and easy to drive, echoing the experience of driving a traditional gas crossover. Its FWD setup and multi-link rear suspension ensure a balanced, smooth ride.
Although some enthusiasts may miss the instant torque and RWD of modern EVs, the Kona Electric’s performance is steady and refined. The car’s new setup, with 201 horsepower but reduced torque (188 lb-ft down from 291 lb-ft), provides a smooth power delivery, making the overall drive more relaxed and controlled compared to its predecessor.
Range and Efficiency
- Battery & Motor Configurations: The base SE model features a 48.6 kWh battery paired with a 133-hp motor, delivering a range of 200 miles. SEL, N-Line, and Limited trims come with a 64.8 kWh battery and a 201-hp motor, offering 230-261 miles.
- Efficiency Observations: Over a 1,070-mile test, the Kona Electric demonstrated an efficiency of 4.0 miles per kWh, aligning closely with its EPA-rated range.
Charging Capabilities
Though it lacks the advanced 800-volt system of some Hyundai models, the Kona Electric compensates with a steady charging curve. Its 85 kW maximum DC fast-charging rate allows it to go from 10% to 80% in approximately 43 minutes, a practical duration for most users.
Interior and Technology
The Kona Electric’s interior mirrors that of its gas-powered variant but with increased space due to design refinements. It includes features like Hyundai’s Bluelink, Digital Key 2, and navigation-based smart cruise control, although the latter’s conservative settings can be switched off for a more natural driving experience.
Tech Features
- Screen Setup: Dual touchscreen interface running Hyundai’s modern software, offering an intuitive and smooth user experience.
- User Experience: Hyundai’s thoughtful design, with physical buttons for essential functions, ensures convenience isn’t sacrificed for style.
- Safety Suite: Standard safety features include Forward Collision Assist, Blind Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more.
Pricing and Trims
- SE Trim: Starting at $34,270 with a smaller battery and motor.
- SEL Trim: $38,270 with upgraded powertrain and enhanced features.
- N-Line: New for 2025 at $39,670, featuring cosmetic upgrades and a mid-tier range.
- Limited Trim: Top-tier at $42,445, complete with luxury features.
Conclusion
Initially, there were doubts about Hyundai continuing with an EV model based on a gas platform. But the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric proves that a well-executed platform can challenge the supremacy of dedicated EV platforms. With its blend of comfort, efficiency, and practical features, the Kona Electric makes a strong case for not judging an EV solely by its design roots.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
