Hyundai Kona Electric – Is This The Chevy Bolt EV Killer?

Apple Carplay and Android Auto are standard. Dashboard and center console is well thought out. Buttons sport unique shapes and sizes that can be found easily without taking your eyes off the road.

Exterior design choices (aerodynamic wheels, odd looking “grill” ) aren’t quite as appealing. Range on the Hyundai Kona Electric is excellent with a 64 kWh battery – larger than a Chevy Bolt. The Kona EV bests the Bolt in overall range. Although the Hyundai has slower 0-60 performance.

So will the Hyundai Kona Electric be a Chevy Bolt killer? Most likely on the global market but certainly not here in the U.S. According to a recent press release by Hyundai:

2019 Kona Electric models will be produced in Ulsan, Korea and will be available in the beginning of 2019, with initial availability in California and subsequently in the ZEV-focused states in the western and northeastern regions of the U.S. market.

Unfortunately, this roll-out is typical for Hyundai/Kia. The automaker continues to allocate as few PHEV and BEV models to the U.S. as they can. So drivers in the states will have a difficult time finding the small crossover. Europe and South Korea are expected to receive much wider availability.

Still, the Kona EV has been well received. So for buyers in the U.S. that have access to a ZEV state Hyundai dealer, check out the vehicle for yourself once available. For more information and the full review, watch the video above!