HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC TO BE LAUNCHED BY MONTH-END IN MALAYSIA.

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has confirmed the launch Of the Kona Electric in November, the first all-electric vehicle under the Hyundai brand to make its debut in Malaysia.

The new Kona Electric will be available in two different zero-emissions battery electric powertrains: a long-range version powered by a 64 kWh battery with a maximum range of 484km and a 39.2 kWh battery basic version with a driving range of 305km, Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test (WLTP) with a single charge.

Pricing is estimated to start under RM150,000 for the basic model with import and excise duty exemptions. This follows the Budget 2022 announcement last Friday on the adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia.

“With the newly announced import and excise duty exemptions, we envisage greater interest in EVs in Malaysia. The arrival of the Kona Electric is timely as it will provide more choice for consumers who want a more sustainable and greener ride option to help reduce carbon footprint ,” said Mr Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of HSDM.

Both the Kona Electric 64 kWh and 39.2 kWh battery variants (electricity consumption: 15.4 kWh/100; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km according to WLTP) feature an electric motor which delivers a maximum power of 204 PS (150 kW) and 395 Nm of immediate torque, accelerating the Kona Electric to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds – in ensuring that it is fun-to-drive with full power available from the first second.

“The Kona Electric offers outstanding electric performance in terms of battery range and top speed. It also features fast charging which makes it perfect for long distance drives,” added Mr Low.

Charging the lithium-ion polymer battery from 10 to 80 per cent only takes about 47 minutes using a 100kW direct current (DC) fast charger. The Kona Electric features an optional 11-kW three-phase on-board charger. This allows for significantly shorter charging times using public three-phase AC charging stations or with a private compatible wall box at home. Drivers also have the option of charging their car at a compatible regular household power socket using the ICCB-cable (in-cable control box).

It is now even more recognisable with new bold exterior design updates. Among them are new bumpers, lamps, wheel design and colours which gives the Kona Electric a more sophisticated character. The signature claddings have been refined and now in body colour, thus emphasising the model’s width and stance. Low, U-shaped skid plate and new DRL design also improve the styling of the Kona.

The interior features a progressive design with a new horizontal layout and new ambient lighting technology in the foot area. Ambient lighting illuminates the passenger and driver side footwell, emphasising the lifestyle character of the vehicle.