Hyundai Kona EV will more likely be launched in India in the second half of this year following QXi’s debut
Hyundai has already confirmed that the electrified Kona will be launched in India this year. Expected to go on sale following the debut of QXi, the Kona EV will likely be sold in limited numbers and act as a technology showcase for the brand. With Kona having global sales prominence for the brand, it has been showcasing the electric version across different motoring exhibitions.
At the ongoing 2019 Bangkok International Motor Show, the zero-emission Kona has been displayed as well. It is sold in two different battery packs and India will get the lower 39.2 kWh version, which is good enough to produce a maximum power output of 136 PS and nearly 400 Nm of peak torque.
It has claimed electric driving range close to 350 km on WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) cycle. The Electric Kona will be assembled in India upon arrival and depending on how well received, further plans will be hatched by the brand.
The higher capacity 64 kWh battery pack delivers 204 PS and 395 Nm and has certified driving range of 546 km on WLTP cycle. It is yet unknown whether fast charging facility will be provided in India or not.
If it turns out to be the case, the lower capacity battery pack can be had with 100 kW DC fast charger helping in replenishing up to 80 per cent in little under an hour. Hyundai offers a range of driving assistance and safety technologies with the Kona and we will have to wait and see what all will be chosen for India.
Hyundai has a busy schedule of launches this year to strengthen its position in some of the segment already it has presence in as well as having a go at new segments. The new Santro arrived late last year to fulfil the gap existed in the A2 segment while the next generation Grand i10 is slated for introducing around the festive season. Besides, the facelifted Elantra also appears to be in the mix.