HYUNDAI Kona Electric 2018-2020 Photos, engines & full specs

Hyundai continued its electrification program and introduced an electric version of its crossover utility vehicle Kona in 2018 at the New York Auto Show.

The Korean automaker was determined to increase its expertise in the electric-car segment. Thus, in 2018, Hyundai unveiled the Kona. While the lineup was available either with an internal combustion engine only or as a hybrid, the electric version came later. But it was an essential step forward in the automaker's electrification strategy.

Since it wasn't designed from the start to be entirely an electric vehicle, the automaker had no other choice than masking the main grille on the front fascia with a decorative panel. It wasn't the most elegant solution, but it worked. Furthermore, to emphasize the car's electric drivetrain, the Kona Electric featured slim LED daytime running lights placed on the upper side of the front fascia. In addition, lower, on the side scoops, the carmaker added the headlights. Last but not least, the air intakes placed lower on the sides of the apron channeled the air around the car to improve aerodynamics.

Inside, the Hyundai designers offered enough room for five passengers and a decent 19.2 cu-ft (544 liters) trunk size. The dashboard was simple and featured the navigation screen (available as an option) on top of the center stack. It wasn't the best place, but it was a good start for the Hyundai's electric evolution.

The drivetrain consisted of a 201 hp electric motor delivered to the front wheels and fed by a 64 kWh battery pack.