Hyundai‘s latest launch, the 2024 Kona Electric, stands out with its blend of enhanced features and practical improvements. This new model, set to arrive in the United States by late fall, brings subtle yet significant upgrades to its predecessor, the 2023 Kona Electric.
The electric car has a 64.8-kilowatt-hour battery.
The 2024 Kona Electric showcases a slightly larger 64.8-kilowatt-hour battery, a minor but meaningful increase from the previous 64 kWh capacity. This enhancement results in a modest boost in range, offering 261 miles on a single charge according to EPA estimates. This increase, though seemingly small, indicates Hyundai’s commitment to incremental progress in EV technology.
However, it’s not just about longer distances. The new Kona Electric also introduces improvements in efficiency, although it’s marginally less energy-efficient than its predecessor. With an energy consumption rate of 116 MPGe, or about 291 watt-hours per mile, it’s a slight uptick in energy use. This could be attributed to the vehicle’s larger dimensions, including a longer wheelbase and increased width, potentially affecting aerodynamics.
Charging time sees a substantial improvement, thanks to a more powerful 10.8-kW on-board charger, reducing full charging time by about three hours. Additionally, DC fast charging is faster, taking 43 minutes to reach 80% charge.
The 2024 model introduces new features like the i-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving and a Smart Regenerative System that adapts to traffic conditions. These innovations, along with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, highlight Hyundai’s focus on enhancing the driver experience in electric mobility.
While pricing remains unannounced, it’s expected to be in line with the outgoing model, making it a competitive option in the EV market. However, the lack of eligibility for the $7,500 federal tax credit for imported EVs is a notable drawback. But with the discontinuation of Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Kona Electric has an opportunity to capture a significant portion of the entry-level EV segment.
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(Via)
