2019 Hyundai Kona Electric Recalibrates the Eco CUV Formula with an Impressive 400 km of Range

 

VANCOUVER,   – Hyundai recently unveiled the Canadian-market version of its convention-breaking Kona Electric crossover at the Vancouver International Auto Show. Kona Electric rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first compact electric crossover for the Canadian market, appealing to consumers with eco-focused lifestyles of all kinds. Kona Electric offers a powerful, efficient electric drivetrain and a stylish, roomy interior. A whole host of advanced safety features are also available including Lane-Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.

The Kona Electric compact platform has been developed to provide customers with CUV-like ground clearance and an elevated, command seating position to ensure better visibility and comfort on long journeys, as well as easy ingress and egress. Kona Electric also benefits from strategic use of structural adhesives at high stress points on the chassis and extensive use of hot-stamping methods for greater rigidity.

The Kona Electric powertrain employs a high-efficiency 150 kW (201 horsepower) permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor supplied by a high-voltage 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. The motor develops 291 lb.-ft. of torque distributed to the front wheels through a 7.981 axle ratio. The powertrain inverter has a power density of 25.4 kVA per liter and a maximum power rating of 1.8 kW. The battery system is liquid-cooled and operates at 356 volts and an output of 170 kW. Battery pack energy density is 141.3 Wh/kg (greater than Chevy Bolt), with a total battery system weight under 454 kg (1,000 lbs).

The Kona Electric utilizes a Level-II on-board charging system capable of a 7.2 kW rate of charge for rapid recharging characteristics. Kona Electric estimated range is a segment-leading 400 km, meeting the varying needs of owner lifestyles. A full charge can be achieved in 55 minutes with a Level-III quick charge (zero to 80 percent charge @ 100 kW), using the SAE-Combo charging port, while a 7.2 kW Level-II charger takes nine hours and fifty minutes. This 100 kW DC fast-charging capability is standard on the Kona Electric. For charging convenience, the charging port is located in the front grille area for head-in parking ease whenever charging is needed.

 

“Kona” Electric is named after the idyllic west-coast region of the Big Island of Hawaii. The Kona region is famous among endurance triathletes and thrill-seeking travelers, and this energetic image is further reflected in the innovative and functional design of this eco-focused CUV.