Hyundai Confirms 258 Mile Range For 2019 Kona Electric

Hyundai has confirmed the 2019 Kona Electric will have one of the most impressive ranges of any mainstream electric vehicle.

Featuring an estimated range of 258 miles (415 km), the Kona Electric beats competitors such as the Chevrolet Bolt (238 miles / 383 km) and Nissan Leaf (150 miles / 241 km). The crossover also boasts more than twice the range of the Ford Focus Electric (115 miles / 185 km) and Volkswagen e-Golf (125 miles / 201 km).

The Kona’s impressive range is largely due to the model’s 64 kWh lithium-ion battery which sends power to an electric motor that develops 201 hp (150 kW / 203 PS) and 291 lb-ft (394 Nm) of torque. Besides having a slightly larger battery pack than the Bolt, the Kona’s battery has a higher energy density of 141.3 Wh/kg. The crossover’s electric motor also develops an additional 1 hp (1 kW / 1 PS) and 25 lb-ft (33 Nm) of torque.

When the battery is dead, it can be given an 80% charge in 54 minutes using a Level 3 quick charger. However, that same process takes 9 hours and 35 minutes using the 7.2 kW Level 2 on-board charger.

The 2019 Kona Electric will be launched in the United States early next year and the model will initially be available in California. The crossover will then be offered in other “ZEV-focused states in the western and northeastern regions of the U.S. market.”

Pricing remains unconfirmed, but Hyundai has said the Kona Electric will come standard with LED lighting units, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and 17-inch alloy wheels. The model will also have 19.2 cubic feet (53 liters) of cargo room which is the same as the standard Kona.

An assortment of different options will be available including heated leather seats, an automatic climate control system and a wireless smartphone charger. Other highlights include a proximity key, a head-up display and an 8-inch infotainment system with GPS navigation. Buyers can also order an assortment of assistance systems including Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Parking Distance Warning.