2024 Hyundai Kona Electric US version detailed

Hyundai has long been a key player in the affordable electric vehicle market in the US. And now, the automaker has pulled the wraps off the anticipated 2024 Kona Electric, revealing a range of updates that are sure to intrigue both enthusiasts and potential EV buyers alike.

Starting with the design, the Kona Electric now boasts a more streamlined front, replete with a split headlamp configuration. Interestingly, the LED DRL spans the entire width this time. Drawing inspiration from the Ioniq 5, designers incorporated the parametric design theme to the side profile. But let's be real, any family resemblance with its bigger cousin, the Ioniq 5, is hard to spot.

A noteworthy addition is the active grille shutters, which optimize airflow when closed and only open when cooling the battery is needed. Slightly more aerodynamic, the EV’s drag coefficient has improved from 0.29 to 0.27.

For those who are keen on dimensions, the new Kona Electric is longer, wider, and sports an increased wheelbase. Specifically, it's now 171.5 inches long, 73.8 inches wide, and stands 62 inches tall. On the practicality front, the boot space clocks in at 16.5 ft³, while the front storage space (or frunk) is just shy of 0.95 ft³.

Comparisons with Chevrolet Bolt EV are inevitable, given the similar market segment. The 2024 Kona Electric packs a slightly beefed-up battery, at 64.8 kWh, compared to the outgoing model's 64-kWh pack. The estimated range of the newer model is 260 miles, only nudging ahead by 2 miles from the earlier version's 258 miles. Those choosing the standard battery variant can expect around 197 miles of range.

Charging is a tad faster this time. With a 400V Level 3 DC fast charger, the battery can hit 80% from a 10% state of charge in 43 minutes. And for those bracing chilly US winters, the battery pre-conditioning is a nifty feature to have.

The power figures are consistent with the previous generation. The extended range variant offers 201 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque, while its standard range sibling provides 133 hp and an equal amount of torque.

The Kona Electric doesn’t ride on Hyundai's dedicated EV platform, the Electric-Global Modular Architecture (E-GMP). Instead, it utilizes a modified K3 platform, typically meant for gasoline vehicles.

Hyundai has tossed in a few more cherries. There's the vehicle-to-load feature, boasting a 1.7-kW maximum power output, and a Smart Regenerative system that adjusts brake energy regeneration based on traffic conditions. The cabin gets a makeover too, with ambient lighting, body-colored interior touches, and dual 12.3-inch screens for both the gauge cluster and infotainment.

While Hyundai remains tight-lipped about exact pricing, we can speculate. Given the outgoing model's price tag of $33,500 (excluding taxes and fees), it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to expect the 2024 model to be similarly priced, perhaps with a minor uptick. Production for the North American market will take place in Ulsan, South Korea, rendering the car disqualified for the EV tax credit - unless buyers opt for lease rather than purchase. As for European buyers, their Kona Electric will come from Hyundai’s plant in Nošovice, Czechia.

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