Hyundai has unveiled its new 2024 Kona SUV range which, for the new model year, is led by an all-electric variant. At launch, customers will be able to choose from both electric and internal combustion powertrains, including a sporty N Line version. While the all-new 2024 Kona is available at Hyundai’s U.S. dealers now, the OEM expects the Kona Electric to launch in late fall.
Equipped with the 64.8-kWh battery, the Kona Electric is expected to deliver a maximum range of 260 miles (418 km) on a single charge. The EV’s battery system is estimated to enable a 10 to 80 percent recharge in approximately 43 minutes, with an available 400V fast-charging capability. The EV’s standard battery option is expected to provide around 197 miles (317 km) of range.
Enabled through the model’s EV-derived universal architecture is a larger interior space, which Hyundai envisions as a ‘living space’ to embrace a wider variety of customer lifestyles. Here, the driver-centric front row is accentuated by a floating horizontal C-Pad with dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens. At the same time, the shift-by-wire gear selector has been relocated from the center console to a stalk behind the steering wheel, allowing for more storage in the open console area.
The Kona Electric’s further EV-centric features include an available battery preconditioning system, which works to help secure charging and power performance in colder ambient temperatures, alongside forward “frunk” storage, active grille shutters, exterior V2L capability, an i-PEDAL driving mode, and a Smart Regenerative System that adjusts regeneration according to real-time traffic conditions.
Inside, the new Kona range offers an available next-generation infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens that are integrated into the audio-video navigation system for a widescreen digital experience. When parking, the vehicle’s Surround View Monitor displays the vehicle from various driver-selectable viewpoints to support safe and easy parking, working alongside wide-projection LED headlamps that illuminate the way forward. Further along, the front passenger and driver have easy access to two USB-C chargers, one of which offers data support, as well as a 12V power outlet. The rear passengers similarly benefit from two USB-C chargers in addition to a wireless charging system.
In embracing connectivity, the all-new Kona offers Over-the-Air (OTA) technology for software updates – as well as map and multimedia software – allowing the owner to improve the vehicle’s performance or experience new features using wireless communication. This functionality can likewise improve overall vehicle performance and functions by updating the firmware of the various control units.
The 2024 Kona’s suite of technologies also includes Digital Key 2 Touch – which utilizes NFC connectivity found on smart phones or smart watches. An evolution of the OEM’s Hyundai Digital Key, the system allows owners to use their compatible smart devices to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle. Digital Key 2 Touch will also allow owners to sharing up to three additional keys with friends and family, which can likewise be revoked at their discretion. Hyundai confirmed that the new Kona will also offer available Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
2024 Kona Electric models are available with the latest version of Hyundai’s Bluelink connectivity technologies. Here, the Bluelink app displays the EV’s range, battery state and charging times (when plugged into public or private charging points). Through Bluelink, customers can also access an advanced battery management system to select charging times that fit their schedules and budgets by making the most of off-peak electricity rates.
The Remote Profile Management feature stores select personalized driver preferences in the Bluelink cloud and can remotely update and push data back to the vehicle. Vehicle Status Notifications inform owners if the vehicle doors are unlocked or if the windows are open, while a Maintenance Alert Enhancement tracks maintenance intervals in the multimedia system with ability to reset.