November 27, 2024

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[THE INVESTOR] Hyundai Motor, the nation’s largest carmaker, will unveil an all-electric version of Kona subcompact SUV at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year, according to a local media report on Sept. 25. 

Citing an industry source, the report noted that Hyundai will kick off sales of the Kona EV following its debut at the annual auto show that starts on March 8. 

Hyundai, however, said, Kona EV’s Geneva entry has not been decided yet. But the carmaker is planning to roll out the electric car sometime in the first half of next year. 

“We are currently developing and testing Kona EV, with a range to exceed 390 kilometers on a single charge,” Hyundai spokesperson told The Investor. 

When released, Kona EV is expected to have the longest driving range in the market, outpacing its current rivals Chevrolet Bolt EV that delivers a range of 383 kilometers and Tesla Model S with 378 kilometers. Hyundai’s own Ioniq EV delivers 191 kilometers, while its smaller affiliate Kia Motor’s Soul offers 148 kilometers. 

Hyundai has been ramping up efforts to expand its green car lineup in an attempt to catch up with global rivals in the EV race as well as seeking a new growth engine. 

The auto giant, which includes both Hyundai and Kia, said it plans to roll out 31 eco-friendly vehicles by 2020 that includes 10 hybrid cars, 11 PHEVs, eight pure EVs and two FCEVs. 

Hyundai is planning to launch a long-range electric vehicle for its luxury marque Genesis in 2021, as well as another long-range EV with a range that tops 500 kilometers.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)