It’s taken longer than expected after the launch of the new model Kona in June last year, though it was worth the wait for Fleet Managers when the base model pricing starts from $54,000 (MLP).
There’s also a model with a more powerful motor (150 kW) and a larger 64.8 kWh battery which will deliver 505km in range (WLTP) with the 17″ wheels and tyres. All models are 2WD which is similar to the previous generation Kona which is perfect for a fleet car.
There’s so much to enjoy about the latest generation Kona that you might miss the improvements in battery technology and electric motor efficiency.
For organisations that want to reduce their CO2 emissions with a transition to electric vehicles, Fleet Managers need to understand that not all EVs are the same. The early adopters purchased any EV they could source. Price was important but kWH/100km wasn’t even considered.
Vehicle manufacturers have learnt from their first and second generation EVs. The latest generation of the Kona EV demonstrates how fast the technology is moving. With uncertainty around the future values of used EVs, Fleet Managers shouldn’t just buy electric cars, they should be buying the latest generation.
More powerful and efficient powertrain
All-new KONA Electric’s Standard Range and Extended Range electric powertrains are designed to deliver a smooth and seamless driving experience.
Battery Range
All-new KONA Electric Extended Range has a maximum real-world electric range of 505 kilometres on a single charge (when equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels), to let drivers travel freely in the knowledge all-new KONA Electric can comfortably accommodate everything from their daily drive to a long-distance trip.
Lithium-ion battery
New lithium-ion batteries in all-new KONA Electric bring increased capacity in both Standard and Extended range form, with the Standard Range battery of 24-percent greater capacity than that of previous generation KONA Electric.
The liquid cooled, high-performance battery is mounted along the floor plan, maximising interior space while enhancing vehicle dynamics and safety through a low centre of gravity.
Electric motor
The permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor in all-new KONA Electric has been redesigned with a focus on smooth acceleration and vehicle efficiency and is offered in two output levels:
| All-new KONA Electric | |||
| Battery | Standard Range 48.6 kWh | Extended Range 64.8 kWh | |
| Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | |
| Motor power | 99 kW | 150 kW | |
| Motor torque | 255 Nm | 255 Nm | |
| WLTP Range | 370 km | 505 km (17” wheel) | 444 km (19” wheel) |
New enhanced cooling channels help maintain the system at its optimum temperature, while the new motor’s compact size allows storage space to be maximised.
Torque ripple – or torque fluctuation – has also been decreased, resulting in smoother, more linear acceleration.
Battery conditioning system
All-new KONA Electric’s standard battery conditioning system can activate in cold climate conditions to heat the battery for improved DC charging and driving performance.
The battery conditioning system can also pre-heat in preparation for fast charging, such as when a DC charger is set as a destination in the navigation.
Heat pump
The cabin-heating function in all-new KONA Electric is by a high efficiency heat pump system, in place of a conventional electric PTC heater.
The heat pump utilises waste heat energy from other systems and energy from the atmosphere to warm the cabin in a clever reverse cycle air-conditioning system.
The energy savings from utilising the heat pump contribute to maximising all-new KONA Electric’s driving range.
Charging
All-new KONA Electric features faster AC and DC charging, with the addition of bi-directional charging capability, to provide even greater customer convenience.
The onboard AC charger now has a capacity of up to 10.4kW, compared with 7.2kW in the previous generation KONA Electric.
DC charging time is also improved; when connected to a 100kW DC fast charging station, all-new KONA Electric can be recharged from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 45 minutes in both Standard and Extended Range forms (or, in 65 minutes when connected to a 50kW fast charging station).
Interior Vehicle to Load (V2L)
All-new KONA Electric’s Interior V2L feature utilises the vehicle battery to provide an internal mains power source in the rear centre console, which allows customers to freely use or charge their electronic device or appliance while on the move.
The V2L function provides a standard domestic power outlet and has a maximum output of 250V / 15A / 3kW. Exterior V2L functionality is also available via the charging port.
The V2L function can also provide Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) charging functionality, by utilising the portable emergency charging cable (ICCB) to charge another electric vehicle.
It has a FRUNK!
All-new KONA Electric’s smart and space efficient packaging extends to a front under-bonnet cargo compartment that holds up to 27L (VDA), which makes it ideal for carrying charging equipment or a small backpack. The compartment is equipped with a net for securing small items, and an LED light, and features a sealed lid to prevent the ingress of external pollutants.
Pricing
| Powertrain | Battery | KONA Electric | KONA Electric Premium |
| 99kW 2WD | 48.6 kWh Standard Range | $54,000 | – |
| 150kW 2WD | 64.8 kWh Extended Range | $58,000 | $68,000 |
| Option Pricing | KONA Electric | KONA Electric Premium |
| Metallic / Mica premium paint | $595 | $595 |
| Light Shale Grey / Sage Green interior | – | $595 |
Specifications
