Hyundai Kona Electric -- It's Amazing!!!

There was once only one EV that brought luxury, power and long range travel to consumers, but thats slowly changing. This, the new Hyundai Kona does all of this but at less then half the price of the cheapest Model S available. I take ride with owner and KZbin Vlogger, Nigel, as he shows me just how good this latest EV to market really is, you won't be disappointed. Here's a link to Nigel's excellent channel - / @evpuzzle

[@DrSam112]

One of the best reviews on the Kona. Thanks.

[@michaelgoode4104]

You cannot help but think that Nissan have missed the boat with Leaf 2. Smaller battery, rapidgate and not really much of an upgrade from Leaf 1.5. Kona sets the benchmark for every single manufacturer out there on cost, range and functionality.

[@rab6121]

MIchael Goode but at the same time Nissan has 3 month waiting vs the 2 year on a Kona. And really, how often do you really need the extra range and several QC at same trip? For me the 40kwh Leaf will barely not get me to the cabin in winter. But on a 7hour drive you have to stop and eat anyway. And charge a little bit. I drive a 2012 24kwh leaf and would really like a Ioniq or Niro. Something with just a little more range so i only have to stop once.

[@Sofala]

@@rab6121 I agree with you, people are obsessed with BIG batteries, you don't need them.

[@RochdalePioneers]

Its the same car - there is no new Leaf just a heavy facelift. Which is why it still feels very 2010 inside..

[@michaelgoode4104]

R A, it's about perception. In the video the owner states that he bought the vehicle because he wouldn't need to worry about charging. We know what is possible but the general public will buy vehicles with longer range simply because of perceptions. The average Joe will simply want convenience. The Kona destroys the Leaf in this crucial regard.

[@tombarron8741]

You can get hold of a Nissan Leaf. Maybe the delivery time will swing it for the Leaf.

[@robheyes6470]

Thanks for confirming my decision to go for the Kona. It's great to get more positive reviews

[@markcornwall8132]

We got one of the first batch of these in September and I can confirm it really is a great EV. Yesterday we drove from Middleton, Manchester to Cullompton Instavolt, which is 238 miles, and arrived with 25% and 78 miles remaining having driven at 65-70 with auto recuperation on and 13 degrees ouside temperature and aircon on at 22 degrees. I was sceptical of claimed range but it is amazing for the price. Glad you enjoyed it James.

[@Macmonkey1000]

Stunning efficiency at those sort of speeds and temp Mark. Our leaf 24 is doing around 50 miles on 65 MPH trips at the moment, I'm in Scotland and daytime temps are similar right now. Looking forward to possibly getting one of these which could definitely serve as our main car, unlike the leaf.

[@pelbruce496]

Mark Cornwall g

[@frank1847]

Hi, Mark, do you have any advice on the best way to get one of these cars?.

[@alanfoster6589]

Always useful to hear reviews from actual owner/user.

[@mrquordlepleen]

Excellent review. Think this car is a genuine Game Changer. A sign of things to come.

[@brucekennedy5274]

So great to see EV vloggers teaming up! Love you guys (James and Kate) and been following Nigel’s EV Puzzle vlog from the start. All I can say is well done Nigel, you really did your homework and it’s totally paid off - you have a fantastic EV - one that everyone wants 👍

[@Jamesandkate]

Nice comments, thank you. Nigel was ace from start to finish and hopefully we can get something else together in the near future. The car, awesome and as you said, everyone wants it 👍🏻

[@ElectricDriveAfrica]

Really good value in today's EV market.

[@SCYorks]

This is the ev that has convinced me to go fully electric I have two on order at present one for me and one for my partner.

[@jontait2843]

Great to see a wider choice of EVs on the market. I think the Kia Niro EV will be the one to look out for as it's slightly larger with a much bigger boot. Might appeal more to families.

[@Jamesandkate]

Although I've not seen it, I've heard the same about the size. Amazing as its on the same floorpan. That said both the Nero and Kona are the ones to watch we feel 👍🏻 with this range at this price it's simply amazing 👍🏻

[@jontait2843]

@@Jamesandkate exactly! The more choice the better.

[@Muskar2]

Hyundai and Kia are the same brand, and yeah it's basically the same car, but both seem really good. Tesla's primary advantage at this point is the supercharger network, the OTA updates, the biggest supply of cars (and batteries) and the safety ratings. Tesla has lacked in interior quality prior to recent Model 3's and it trades off some traditional features for gimmicks and aesthetics. I would still prefer the Model 3 or Model Y over the Kona or eNiro, but I think both the Kona and eNiro are excellent cars for the average person who doesn't do long roadtrips more than once a year.

[@cusman]

Yeah I tried out the non-EV Kona and found it to be on the smaller end of small crossover vehicles. KIA and Hyundai tend to have the same technology / safety features so I assume any of the things anybody likes on the Kona will be nearly exactly the same on the Kia Niro EV.

[@TKevinBlanc]

There's a new Niro hybrid in the family and the MPG is almost too good to be true. Getting more than 50 MPG currently in gentle (but not hypermiling) driving.

[@stephen7630]

I really want this car. I can't sensibly afford it now, but hopefully if they get here soon I'll be able to afford a second hand one in a few years time.

[@markgaudie80]

Stephen my thoughts exactly. Get a used one and save £10k in 2 to 3 years.

[@paguk2000]

My thoughts as well I have a 15 plate civic I plan to keep another 8 Years or so and then I want an ev that should be affordable with a decent range of 200 miles at least at motorway speeds with a/c or heating on. That would mean 99% of driving

[@DennisBloodnokPhotographyVideo]

Yes I am in this situation as well. I currently have a 2016 VW Polo 1.2 TSI. I am currently "gathering my pennies" and hope to buy an EV in the next 2-4 years. I have heard rumours that a 64KW/H version of the Hyundai Ioniq is due to go on sale Soon. (How soon is "Soon" , well your guess is as good as mine).

[@charlesholland-keen2222]

We have the Ioniq hybrid and will definitely go for the bev if it gets the larger battery. Ioniq has more of a quality feel.

[@eduardpertinez4767]

I made my math. If you don't have to ask for credit, this car is totally affordable. Yes, you have to pay a lot to own it, but you have to pay for gasoline every month too. What ruins it is expensive credit rates.

[@christopherwalton5528]

Classic video, enjoyed it! We adore the Ioniq (Izzy Wizzy) as you know; the Kona is top of the list for a second EV in 2020. That range means to wife's family in Edinburgh and back with no charging. Astounding!!

[@Jamesandkate]

It is exactly that. This car would get to some locations quicker than our Tesla based on it range alone. I'm still a little speechless, which is rare, about how good it really is 👍🏻

[@FancyaBevMate]

Nice video guys, well done Nigel for allowing James the drive. Cheers

[@gp2003gt]

Very convincing, EV's are just it now, no arguments left, hoping that longer autonomy models will become widely available in the not to distant future, thank you again for pushing us all forward.

[@greyareaRK1]

Amazed how good the interior sound is for that road. Looking forward to trying that car.

[@Kiltoonie]

I have to wait until March for mine, in the meantime I'm passing the time enjoying all the KZbin viddys of it: this will be my third EV and I just cannot wait to get my first drive in one: same colour, too. Looks stunning.

[@dcvariousvids8082]

I'm tending more toward the e-Niro now. I much prefer the looks, both inside and out of the Kona. But a slightly bigger load space beckons. Either would transport 80% of what I normally carry. But that little bit extra would come in handy when moving bee hives. As always, a great review. Thank you.

[@danield.7359]

What's most amazing is how quiet it is in the cabin. Great EV. Great video.

[@alanfoster6589]

All existing EV's are wonderful from an internal sound standpoint. It's wonderful to be able to have a normal conversation while driving.

[@Froot99]

We’re getting a Kona EV premium trim level in may 2019, I’m very excited! 😄

[@Lewis_Standing]

How has the kona suited pal?

[@christill]

It’s awesome that we now have the tech at the point where it’s affordable enough and capable enough for anyone to go electric. Even if the tech didn’t evolve at all from here, which it will massively anyway, anyone could go EV with this tech. Hopefully for my taste, they put the drivetrain in an i20 sized hatch. And it does need to get a bit cheaper still but that will happen soon. Great car.

[@vidsinthecloud]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@markwebber4699]

great review i like you James were not keen on the plastic mouldings and for this reason i went for the Galactic Grey colour hoping it wouldn't be as obvious.

[@guntodd]

I keep telling people that Hyundai and Kia are making strong moves in the EV space. And Tesla fans just can’t accept that fact. Hahaha. Thanks for the honest review.

[@Jamesandkate]

It's only a good thing.we need more competition for sure. At this price it's just excellent value and it drives superbly 👌🏻 look in next week for another review next week on one of the best made EV's available 👍🏻

[@guntodd]

+James and Kate agree. In order to make EV appealing to masses, price point is important. Not all EV buyers can afford Tesla and not all Consumers are hot and heavy over auto pilot, or all the tech gadgets on Tesla. Fact of the matter is that technology grows so rapidly. My opinion is that consumers welcome more options. If we only focus on luxury EV, then we are missing the bigger picture. Personally I think in short term every household should have 1EV or PHEV for local commute. Until we have solid charging network, then we can look to expand more. IMHO.

[@3811eric]

Tesla fans? They are all just money greed bastards and losers...

[@NealeUpstone]

@@3811eric I think a significant proportion of Tesla fans are "fans" because Tesla took up the challenge of dealing with the climate breakdown and impacts on our health caused by fossil fuel powered vehicles. Yes, there are probably many Tesla owners who don't give a damn about the future of the living planet in the for ourselves and our children's generation.

[@stevenlove200]

I am a Tesla fan, but I am VERY impressed with this Hyundai.

[@paulgregory620]

Excellent as always.

[@ShesElectric]

Great videos guy- definite contender for mass EV uptake

[@RochdalePioneers]

Great video - have been watching both James and Nigel's channels. Had a 24kWh Leaf. Now driving an (inherited) company Outlander PHEV, and have got the company agreed in principle to let me order a full EV when its lease is up next June. I expect by then to have a choice of Kona, Niro and Leaf all with the same 64kWh LG battery - I know that the Korean cars will go further but if the lead times get too long I can see my options being Leaf or nothing.

[@EMichaelBall]

Don't expect any of them by next June. Even Tesla is having battery shortages.

[@markjennings2315]

Order the Niro now (might already be too late) Niro, Like Kona will be sold out at list price with a waiting list.

[@doubledutch13]

Great stuff again James

[@Jamesandkate]

Thanks John

[@paguk2000]

I have been waiting to see this as always great review. Not keen on suv just puts this drive train in the ionic then that would be amazing

[@bnkwupt]

Wait until you have a go in the Model 3. I think you're going to be revising your next-car-to-buy recommendation. Super review of the Kona, James. You had a great balance of features and driving throughout the video.

[@lotsofbumper76]

If you turn regen off for a stop ✋ then accelerate it’s a smoother increase, great vid and nice guy Nigel

[@neilbrandon]

Excellent review. Also pleased to see you tested the turning circle. Although saying that the model S Tesla is 11.4m which is not too bad. The Kona is also really easy to go through 6 6 width restrictions. Only downside is no 4gconnectivity, sunroof or rear usb in the UK

[@johnwilde4953]

We were lucky enough to have got a Kona 64kwh from the first batch in September. It replaces the Outlander PHEV that my wife was using and it now sits alongside the our MS75D on the drive - so that setting at the end of the video looked very familiar to me - albeit different colours. My wife was a reluctant EV user - never really feeling confident enough to make the switch full switch away from an ICE. The range of Kona convinced her and she hasn't looked back since. Generally she keeps her drives below 200miles so, typically relies on home charging. But she has embraced longer trips with destination and/or en-route rapid charging. What the range of the Kona provides is options. Even on a 400mile round trip (the last one she did) - you have plenty of redundancy in the charging strategies. You can stop some time before you really need the charge and top-up. If the charger is busy or not working (EH CCS problems a good example) - you will have plenty reserve to move on to the next one. This essentially eliminates the 'what ifs?' that prey on no-EVs driver's minds, my wife included. That is the big benefit of a longer range EV - that and the scope for better battery care. She never really charges beyond 90% and rarely has reason to drop below 20%.

[@jonathanmeazza427]

I hope they can ramp battery production, lots of people will want this car.

[@toptobottom247]

I'm buying it as soon as it's available in the U.S. Won't get the Tesla Supercharger access but that's ok. I'll work it out.

[@marcoresch3494]

Great video! I had the great luck to get my Kona electric last week, so I want to tell you there are four driving modes: by pressing and holding the drive mode button, you start the eco+ mode with maximum energy saving! Greetings from Austria

[@Jamesandkate]

Excellent, we hope you enjoy it. Thanks for the heads up on the driving modes, we didn't know 👍🏻

[@Goodchappy]

Good video James, you confirmed what I have been thinking. It is expensive and the delay on production is a nuisance but after seeing quite a few reviews, I want this car but not in that colour.

[@midwestslim]

Can't wait for more ev competition.

[@ram64man]

James thanks for the review mate if you like this I think your going to like the Kia e-Nero even more, after seeing it in France it has a small improvement in rear leg room and head room, the boot seemed bigger just no uk spec details yet though, that maybe the one to get with Flora in the back growing plus the buggy room for a day trip, it may be with contacting Kia U.K. to see if the can add you to the press launch a drive, since you and Kate are one of the best at what ev’s are capable of in the real world. Keep it up 👍🏻

[@wobby1516]

ram64man Yes, I might have waited for the Kia for the extra space and seven year warranty had I known its launch schedule. Still I’m sure I won’t be disappointed with the Kona when it arrives in January..

[@benjaminford9932]

Just had a look it both the Kona and Niro, not EV versions sadly but, I can confirm the Niro has more room in the back. Both seem to be very well made, the doors shut with a satisfying 'thunk'! With a couple af lads, one rather large, the Niro is definitely our choice. Can't see any ordering options on the Kia website yet but, it's due for release in January I believe. If Hyundai and Kia can ship the numbers, these will sell like hot cakes and Nissan should be very worried, unless they intend doing something very special with the next LEAF!

[@billh3860]

Well done! Truly impressive car. My initial impression, having seen the car locally on display.... it had too little cargo space. Maybe I'll take a second look and reconsider this car as my next car.... (24 kWh 2013 Leaf S presently)

[@casspirmk6338]

Ordered one. Happy

[@jontait2843]

Nigel's channel "The EV Puzzle" is worth a watch. Shame it's not linked in the video description James&Kate

[@Jamesandkate]

I'll do it now, good point 👍🏻

[@Jamesandkate]

It's done

[@markfitzpatrick6692]

Love the video. Great car.

[@iantrott9152]

Another excellent video :) I took a look at the ICE version of the Kona but the boot was just slightly too small for my wheelchair, so I’m hoping that the Kia e-Niro has a bit bigger boot. It would be great to see you review that too :)

[@EVPuzzle]

What a brilliant car. To think there will soon be two on my drive!

[@Jamesandkate]

You have another coming?? 👌🏻

[@jeffreycooper8408]

Thats just greedy :-)

[@be236]

On my Nissan LEAF, when I drive it for maybe 2-3 minutes, it would drop 1% n the battery. Kona EV is awesome!

[@torstend5494]

Many thanks for this excellent Kona Review. Just a small Question i noticed this background sound while driving even at low speed in the video is this comming from the tires , the wind, the e motor the chassis ? many thanks indeed again

[@mauricetaylor742]

Great review....looks like a great option........thank you for all the info......will be a long time before we see it in Canada......I get to play with a little electric range with my prime......John...I was a little disappointed.....with your comment about No spair tire....and you being disappointed with no option.....never heard youngest anything like that for your Tesla..... can't understand why it would be an issue on this car.....just a thought all the way from Canada......I watch you two regularly.... Moe

[@markjennings2315]

Hi James. Very interesting to see your impression of the Kona. I got my Kona in Aug and have now done over 7000km. The first trip I did was an epic trip up into the NZ central plateau, a 4200' climb and 364km distance travelled. Had 8% remaining (20km) at our ski area destination. After that a 2600km round trip and the Kona just eat up the long 3-4 hour nonstop drives. It is very interesting to hear your comparison with the model S. I am a very early Model 3 reservation holder and will eventually (very eventually!!) have to decide whether to proceed with the Model 3 order or stick with the Kona!!

[@Jamesandkate]

When people ask me about the range I simply reply, you don't need to worry, it will get you there. Range I feel is largely unimportant now. Glad you're having a positive experience with the Kona 😀👍🏻

[@brianfish8269]

Hi James I hear what you say and the Kona without doubt is an excellent ev. I am also delighted with my Ioniq ev, but if I had the money I would have an Tesla S. While I was charging this evening a new S in dark blue pulled up temporarily beside me, it was absolutely gorgeous.

[@alanfoster6589]

Or you could try for a model 3.

[@EVPaddy]

Hmpf. Can't wait to get a hold of mine. Was promised to arrive by November 5th in Spain, now suddenly the dealer tells me it's only buil now in Korea and will arrive by the end of the year. If he'd told me in August, I'd ordered the color I wanted, not the one he already had on order.

[@matiasg7940]

You should have bought a Tesla

[@EVPaddy]

Why, to get a large, unpractical sedan that costs double and has less features? And won't arrive for many more months in Europe? BTW they called me today and said they made a mistake, the car is already in Spain. ha.

[@susannyk4922]

u r ordering different vehicle in different forum's like Electrek , youtube ..etc....lie atleast consistently ...

[@EVPaddy]

Ah, interesting. Any hint that the liar isn't you? Where did I ever claim to have ordered anything different? (Apart from the Zoe I already own and the Model 3 I have on reservation?). I'm very, very interested​ to see that.

[@matiasg7940]

So you are talking trash on Tesla non stop but you have a Model 3 reservation? How is that?

[@philr4665]

Wow, that statement at 12:30 pitching the Kona EV against the model S is a bold one. As a long-term fan of the Tesla, it's good to hear that we have something on the horizon that can compete at half the price!

[@markgaudie80]

I’m looking forward to what Dacia can bring to the table with their new range of EV’s. They will bring them to the masses with low pricing they are saying. Just hope the quality isn’t too shabby. I have faith. 👍

[@inkpen1999]

The Dacia thing is interesting. I wonder if they'll do one without a radio for £8k?

[@dzonikg]

8K ... 300 miles range ,2 airbags ,no radio and off course manual windows to save the power

[@inkpen1999]

Carpets, not an option on the basic one. No heater, just free balaclava & woolly gloves.

[@tomaras9790]

O yes Dacia!!!

[@rab6121]

Really lovely car! The colour is amazing! Love when people buys something else than The trio of White-black and grey. I’ve only seen two here in Norway so far. But im pretty sure there is more to come. Over 7k has already pre ordered it and now there’s a whopping 2 year waiting list. And the ones who has hit the «used» marked costs 10k £ more than if you order it new.

[@guntodd]

Red, black and gray. Hahahaha...

[@alanfoster6589]

Fashion sense notwithstanding, 95% of the cars in Paris are black. Never could understand that.

[@DiHandley]

Hyundai have done an excellent job on price, speed to market and features on the Kona. I will be ordering mine tomorrow. On the other hand Nissan have completely underestimated the knowledge of potential customers. Staying with an air cooled battery pack is just plain crazy.

[@Max86421]

Hyundai Kona Electric 😍

[@moonlim33]

Impressive!

[@Retrofordguy]

How wierd is that I was just searching about the kona ev and the your video popped up

[@Jamesandkate]

Awesome, hope you enjoy it 👍🏻

[@susannyk4922]

google analytics nothing weird...

[@be236]

Great video.. you say you drive about 15 minutes and lose 1% on the battery .. nice! I have LEAF 2017 and after driving maybe 2-3 minutes, I lose 1% on my battery... Kona EV is awesome.. Likely it'll be my next EV if I can get my hands on it " in the states."

[@guntodd]

Yea same here. You should checkout kona review by bjorn nyland

[@kristiyank9888]

Can't wait mine to come. Next week will be delivered in Varna, Bulgaria with the bigger battery.

[@alanfoster6589]

Good to hear they're becoming available in eastern Europe.

[@3811eric]

Thanks for the review, guys!! I am convinced not to buy that overpriced Techla or Tesla something.. Kona is the best one to buy. I am pre-ordering the Kona, the same color you reviewed and can't wait till my delivery day!!! Kodos to those hard worked Korean engineers!

[@frank1847]

Hi where are you buying from?.

[@alanfoster6589]

Kodos and Kang?

[@dirtforce0897]

man, this is SUCH a game changer... so proud to be a Hyundai family, back when it wasn't cool.... I still have my '05 accent, going strong, father just bought a '17 Sonata (beautiful car) and now I'm looking to upgrade my car but Hyundai has TOO many nice vehicles now.... BUT, after recently purchasing a Sur-ron electric dirt bike, AND EGO cordless products, I'm SO SOLD on electric so this has me intrigued for my next vehicle... This will give Tesla a run for their money.

[@shoelessjoe428]

Would be good to see a video where you rank the top 10 EV's on sale in 2018 (in your opinions). Give each EV a mark for things like ...range, charging capability, interior refinement, style, features, cost/value .

[@Jamesandkate]

Possibly, just have a few more to add to the list currently 😁👍🏻

[@yodagerhard8389]

👍 But i am a little missing Kate's thinking about the Kona.

[@Jamesandkate]

Don't panic, she's back with the iPace very soon 👍🏻

[@cainefrost]

James and Kate - Kona too, not just iPace ;-)

[@yodagerhard8389]

James and Kate , no panic, but i like to see how you both are discussing about a car, and together is a round thing 😀

[@HughMcBrideDonegalFlyer]

Is that not Kate , Geez I was thinking she let herself go a bit ....

[@LeiChat]

Thank you. Looking forward to your thoughts on the Kia Niro EV, especially how it compares to the Kona.

[@TimKirkmt]

I have to say, as the next EV iam very tempted. Range is obviously one bonus, but I like the higher drive position, and the funny thing is the one thing I focused on when you showed the interior cockpit was the retro looking music system!!! I’m so old fashioned!! so given a choice of a 60kwh leaf or this which would you go for? Also how did the interior build quality compare to the leaf? Great video JAMES - thanks

[@Jamesandkate]

Hi Tim, thanks for the comments. The build is pretty much the same as the Leaf. However, the HUD and heated/vented seat options made it the better choice. If the new 60 Leaf is the same as the 40 with a bigger pack, which I suspect it will be, I'd definitely take the Kona, also important to remember you have 64kWh's usable opposed to the 60 on the new Leaf which will probably translate to 56kWh's usable. Imagine your epic journey home in this.

[@TimKirkmt]

Thanks James - yes that makes sense about the battery size. Just watched a video where the car was driven around 93kmh and they got 300 miles with 8% remaining. The boot space looks bigger than the leaf too. YES! Imagine a road trip in that!! I’d get to malta with ease and comfort. Since my trip there have been tonnes of new chargers popped up, makes long trips a breeze. Nice video again mate. Best wishes to the family

[@grahamarnold2591]

lovely wipers so jealous... lovely

[@operationhighjump4656]

Thank you for the report but I have to wait in Germany one year to get it :-((((

[@pmR32red]

I want one!

[@Reason077]

Nice review, but just a thought: it would be better and more interesting to have another camera showing a forward view during the drive, so we’re not just staring at your faces the whole time!

[@NicChristie]

nice music at the end - what's the user interface like compared to the Tesla? does Hyundai provide firmware updates and other internet based features?

[@googlereviewer2743]

Nice review. But I still think before I consider any other EV I have to make sure the charging points are as reliable as Tesla's which at this time are unmatched. I really don't want to rely on third party charging points as they can be very unreliable here in UK outside big cities. When it comes to long journeys, Tesla still has the upper hand mainly because of their excellent Superchargers.

[@t1ghe]

Finally some decent range!!

[@t1ghe]

As a diesel owner this is tempting

[@pipkins1972]

Great vid as always James. My choice in March is between a Kona EV, Leaf 40 or an older Model S. One huge advantage the Tesla has is the unrivalled charging infrastructure in place. As a Tesla owner, what are your thoughts on this?

[@Jamesandkate]

The price difference, the excellent warranty and my experience would be make me take the Kona. I love the S, but we seldom use the SC network, although it's amazing, and the power craze wears off over time along with the tyres 😕 the Leaf 60 may change this depending on its price but right now the Kona wins 👍🏻

[@pipkins1972]

I've got the Leaf 30, the PCP ends in March next year and whilst the charging issues with the 40 haven't scared me off, the Kona looks very good! I've given my contact details to my local Hyundai dealer, they're expecting a demo car in before the end of October - really looking forward to driving one! My boss has a Model S, which I've driven several times on longer trips - it's a great car, just wish it was a little smaller and not so damn quick & expensive!! With the pricing of the Leaf 40 still quite high, I can see the Leaf 60 being much more expensive than the Kona 64. Have Nissan stood still too long - I certainly think so.

[@alandimery3379]

I think you have to ask yourself if you will need public chargers with a car with this range. How many times do you drive more than 300 miles in one day?

[@pipkins1972]

I agree, very rarely, although I would question the 300 mile range. I'd be delighted to be proved wrong though :-)

[@alandimery3379]

This range is definitely for real Adam. James stated that he started this test with a 324 mile GOM range, due to Nigel's careful driving. This was also the case with a test by Bjorn Nyland. In one of his EV Puzzle videos Nigel also demonstrated that around 250 mile range was achievable with 70mph motorway driving. It truly is a remarkable car. I can't wait to pick mine up in January.

[@12alocin]

That battery pack looks to be at risk.

[@midnight4109]

I have yet to see one of either the Kona or the Niro EV. Are they selling them in all states or is it going to take them awhile to ramp up? I suspect that there is a wait if you can order one at all.

[@dicessdontbenosey438]

Can you please tell me How much would it cost to replace the battery pack when it's done over 100,000 kms and other parts like the tyres and other essentials to replace.

[@bobbye8071]

Great review James. How much is the kona? Bobby

[@Jamesandkate]

This was 33 bud 👍🏻

[@scottsalmon1980]

It sounds (by your comments and reactions) that you haven't actually driven an electric car before. I really like the Kona, if it ever becomes available in Oz, but the Model 3 will be here before it, and that is a hard act to beat.

[@xchopp]

The i3 gets blown around in the wind. Does Kona suffer from this too, or is it more stable?

[@Lewis_Standing]

Haven't noticed that in mine, it will be much heavier than an i3

[@danielfearns7125]

If the Koreans were prepared to produce at a rate that meets demand, the Kona and eNiro would be the tipping point everyone talks about. However, the waiting list still leaves the door wide open to Tesla.

[@_TrueDesire_]

can't buy model 3 in EU, and that is priced higher as well.

[@alanfoster6589]

You can buy the model 3 in EU now. And everyone, including Tesla, is battery-constrained.@@_TrueDesire_

[@_TrueDesire_]

@@alanfoster6589 only for those that waited 1-2 years will get their cars in Q1 and Q2 in 2019. i created a Tesla account and it stated 18 months of waiting time for me, so yeah GL with that. and no cheaper options either, the cheapest Model 3 is more than 50% more expensive than a Kona/Niro.

[@BabyGonzo5]

Hi James, you say you would have the Kona over another Tesla. My only thought was the supercharger network would still draw you in especially on a second hand Tesla with all the bells and free charging?

[@cmill357]

This is impressive but The tesla with it aluminum body won't rust,parks itself in a garage and closes the door , pulls out of spots with summon,has a font trunk, glass roof, leading infotainment system, automated height adjustment, auto present door handles, all wheel drive,power lift gate,ect ect I can go on and on....how does this compare?....really? Lmao

[@dougowt]

Because everything you list, you can do without. But finding the finance for a car at half the list price that covers the basics, that's the draw here. What you should have mentioned is the Tesla charging network and the 4 years warranty on a second hand Tesla.

[@enoughofthis]

@@cmill357 well, he said the Tesla doesnit do anything the Kona can't do. Just like an E class can't do anything a Ford can't do. Very informative video.

[@thomasstoewer2681]

Those big A pillars on the Model S are what make it the safest car in it's class

[@alanfoster6589]

Using aircraft grade aluminum doesn't hurt, either.

[@tomtillman]

Sounds great! Now the real question; When can you farking get one?

[@larrycolvin7117]

Looks like an awesome EV option. "How the wipers sound,"??? You know that can be adjusted at your local auto parts store, right?

[@stevemccormack4875]

Hyundai and Kia really have made the grade with EVs. All they need to do now is crank up that battery production. It would be great to see the South Koreans get together and build a gigafactory for batteries.

[@stevebannell2948]

I have my order in. Delivery in May. Getting out of the BMW i3 which is really range anxiety inducing. (without range extender) I knew BMW were going to announce an upgraded battery for the i3 so held off until they said what it was going to be. Up from 125 miles to 160 miles? Not exactly a great leap forward. I immediately went online and put in my Kona order. I think Hyundai (and Kia) through their new Niro have really got a massive jump on the 'big' boys. I also think one of the problems in the medium term is going to be a shortage of battery supply when they all launch their EV's. Hardly anyone makes their own batteries, except Tesla which was a really smart move. Even after they all have models available be prepared for a long wait. China will suck up most of the availability and right hand drives will be way down the build list.

[@canadianteslamartin9221]

HEY NIGEL she is famous!!

[@paulyh4531]

Very impressive how much ? Is it same size as a leaf or bigger can you imagine if say ford bought out a 300 mile range focus ev then things would really take off 👍

[@pioneer7777777]

At the end when you say what the range was and how much it had dropped, you said 324 miles as the beginning range and ended at 291 miles but the Epa estimate is only 258 miles. Were those supposed to be kilometers you were referencing?

[@brianlawrence7986]

Watch The EV Puzzels videos you will see he meant miles. Nigel is a careful EV driver and gets the range up.

[@alandimery3379]

258 miles is the very conservative North America rating. Both Nigel and Bjorn Nyland have proved that over 300 miles is easily achievable with careful driving.

[@robsmith1a]

Great video, looks like Hyundai have knocked the ball out of the park. Other than luxury I'd say the battery makes it more usable than an I-Pace (or Merc or Audi come to that) for less than half the price. It certainly takes all the compromises away. I think the thing is that an 80% charge still gives around 240 miles and if you stop on longer trips with smaller range EVs the 80% charge is a lot less than that. It is still a pretty expensive car though and you'd have to do quite a lot of miles for it to make financial sense compared to an ICE car. I will be tempted once I can get a used one for £20K though by then there may be other alternatives.

[@alanfoster6589]

No question in my mind that from the standpoint of price and usability the Kona easily beats the iPace and Audi's upcoming offerings.

[@ram-ck7ti]

In the UK it appears you have a more reliable charging network then in the US. The only reliable and well placed charging network for long trips in the US is provided by Tesla otherwise the Kona would be an excellent choice here as well. VW has been forced to address this in the US but it's going to take years for them to build out and support a reliable charging network. Sadly, the one's operated by companies other than TESLA are limited to one or two chargers well off the beaten path, that often do not work or are so slow that you'd have to pitch a tent while waiting for a charge to complete. Nice to see UK is taking EV's seriously. Now if we could only get the large car companies to take them seriously.

[@frank1847]

How long will the batteries last, also how much do the batteries cost?.

[@justaknight4719]

Yeah, they need to talk about battery thermal management.

[@wakkadakkaify]

what's the wait time? a year?

[@Jamesandkate]

It's now up to 40+ weeks and that figure is rising. If you go on the website it's updated regularly to reflect demand 👍🏻

[@egold33311]

Think its a bit early to choose this car over another Tesla especially with the model 3 coming out. Didn't notice price being discussed, what is the price of this particular Kona??

[@Kiltoonie]

I've paid around £32 for the top spec three weeks ago. That's in the UK after the £4500 government grant, which is falling to £3500 shortly: just got in in time, and with a 24 week waiting list, just in time there too. Delivery in mid-March, unless someone screws up.

[@HaqVbatil]

Hi lovely community. I will be in the market for a 7 seater EV, although might settle for a plug in with minimum 35 mile on electric range. I have ruled out the Nissan env200, solely because u really want something north of 150 miles range on full charge. Any recommendations?

[@Jamesandkate]

Sadly ATM there is only a Tesla Model X offering that kind of range. The new eNV 40kWh is very close to that range driven carefully however.

[@HaqVbatil]

@@Jamesandkate sacre bleu, should have stipulated a budget of sort, I'm peeved the NIO ES8 isn't coming to UK shores

[@stevenlove200]

Is this front wheel drive only? Was hoping for AWD. Great EV though...should sell well!

[@ricktonge]

Game changer?

[@vishalsabharwal786]

Sir when this car is availabe in INDIA? BTW love from INDIA

[@fatboy19831]

The Kona is a excellent all electric Cuv. The only thing it is missing is AWD. How much does it cost? How many can Hyundai make are the two big questions. If the long range is just over 40,000 pounds? Will people pick it over the mid range Tesla 3.

[@normanpouch]

I have torque steer on my diesel Kangoo which cost me £100 with a MOT. What's the savings.

[@davidhunter1538]

Good luck trying to buy one if you're in Australia, the dealer tried every excuse to dissuade me.