Electric Crossover Set To Take On Expanding Market
More details are emerging about Hyundai’s upcoming crossover battery electric vehicle, the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV, which show Hyundai looking to position it against the current market leaders. Due to be available this fall as a 2019 model, the Kona EV will have an approximate 250-mile range, putting it in the same category as the Chevrolet Bolt and more expensive Tesla models.
At a recent event Hyundai vice president of corporate, product and digital planning, Michael O’Brien, promised that the model’s pricing would “be aggressive,” suggesting that they might follow GM’s lead and slot it in the $30-40,000 range.
Power for the Kona EV will come from a 201 horsepower (150 kW) electric motor that produces 291 pounds-feet of torque. The transmission will feature shift-by-wire capability and a push-button operation. The car will be equipped (either standard or optional on three trim levels—SEL, Limited and Ultimate) with all of the advanced safety technology such as smart cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist and rear cross traffic assist.
Cool Inside
Inside, the Kona will boast either a 7.0 or 8.0 touchscreen display, ventilated front seats and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A heads-up display will also be offered along with luxury touches like ventilated front seats.
O’Brien indicated they have not yet finalized details on the launch plan such as whether it would be available in all 50 states. He confirmed that beside California, it will be offered the 10 other states that follow California’s zero emission vehicle mandate.
The 2019 Hyundai Kona will join the expanding full-electric field currently led by three Tesla models (S, X, 3), the Nissan Leaf sedan, Chevrolet Bolt hatchback, BMW i3, Volkswagen e-Golf and Kia Soul. It will join the Ioniq as the second full-electric Hyundai model. Given its size, configuration and pricing, it may carve out a new niche.
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