Hyundai Kona Electric Exceeds 620 Miles On A Single Charge

Hyundai has set a new range record with three Kona Electric crossovers, which were tested for three days at the Lausitzring circuit in Germany.

At the end of the trials, each of the three zero-emission vehicles exceeded the goal of 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single battery charge, traveling for 633, 636.3 and 637.5 miles (1,018.7, 1,024.1 and 1,026 km) respectively.

Lasting for almost 35 hours, the test included three teams, two from Hyundai and one from AutoBild, and was monitored by Dekra, the European vehicle inspection company that has operated the Lausitzring since 2017. All cars used were unmodified and rode on 215/55R17 tires. The air conditioning units and entertainment systems were switched off, but the daytime running lights remained on to comply with legal requirements.

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At the end of the three days, they recorded 36 driver changes and the cars achieved an average speed between 18-19 mph (29-31 km/h). These, according to Hyundai, reflect the typical inner-city traffic speeds in Europe, including the traffic light changes and residential areas where the maximum speed limit is 19 mph (30 km/h).

“With this test, the Kona Electric confirmed what many of our customers already know: it is a reliably efficient and eco-friendly lifestyle SUV that is practical for everyday use”, said Hyundai Germany Managing Director Jurgen Keller. “Customers driving the Kona Electric or other Hyundai EVs can expect to drive long distances without recharging or feeling range anxiety.”

Priced from €33,971.43 ($39,961) in Germany in the 134 HP (136 PS / 100 kW) version and €40,794.96 ($47,988) in the 201 HP (204 PS / 150 kW) one, the Kona Electric has a 279-mile (449 km) range as per the WLTP cycle.

In the United States, it’s offered in the more powerful version only, with an MSRP of $37,190 and an EPA-rated 258-mile (415 km) range.