Hyundai Motor India has officially discontinued the Kona Electric, nearly five years after its launch in July 2019. This strategic move aligns with Hyundai's plan to introduce the more affordable and locally manufactured Creta EV early next year, signaling a shift in their electric vehicle (EV) strategy for the Indian market.
The End of Kona Electric in India
The Kona Electric, Hyundai’s first electric SUV in India, has been removed from the brand’s official website, indicating its discontinuation. Despite its pioneering status, the Kona Electric struggled to gain a significant foothold in the market, partly due to its higher price point and the emergence of more affordable competitors like the Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, and Mahindra XUV400.
Originally launched at Rs 25.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kona Electric saw a price reduction of nearly Rs 2 lakh towards the end of its lifecycle. However, it was still positioned as a premium offering, which limited its appeal. The SUV featured a 39.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a range of 452 km on a single charge, powered by a 136hp and 395Nm motor on the front axle. Despite these impressive specifications, Hyundai managed to sell only 2,329 units over five years, averaging about 39 cars per month.
Specifications and Features
The Kona Electric was known for its robust performance and advanced features. It could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/hr in 9.7 seconds, thanks to its permanent magnet synchronous motor. The vehicle offered three driving modes—Eco, Comfort, and Sport—along with adjustable regenerative braking via paddle shifters.
Key features included a 7.0-inch dashboard screen, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heads-up display (HUD), automatic climate control, sunroof, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated electrically adjustable front seats, and a reverse camera with parking sensors. The battery could be charged to 80% in about 57 minutes using a 50 kW DC fast charger or in 6 hours and 10 minutes with a standard AC charger.
Transition to Creta EV
As Hyundai phases out the Kona Electric, attention shifts to the upcoming Creta EV, expected to launch in January 2025. The Creta EV will be a high-volume, mass-market electric SUV, heavily localized to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. Unlike the Kona Electric, which was assembled from CKD (completely knocked down) kits, the Creta EV will be manufactured at Hyundai's Chennai plant, ensuring better pricing and availability.
The Creta EV is expected to borrow body panels, platform components, and some interior elements from the Kona Electric. However, it will feature a larger 45kWh battery pack, anticipated to provide a range of up to 500 km on a full charge. The motor will likely produce 136bhp and 255Nm of torque, aligning with global standards for efficient performance. Fast-charging technology will also be a key feature, ensuring practicality for urban commuters.
Competitive Landscape
The discontinuation of the Kona Electric makes room for the Creta EV in a growing market segment. The Creta EV will compete with other upcoming models like the Tata Curvv EV, the electric twins from Toyota and Maruti, and existing players like the MG ZS EV and Mahindra XUV400. Price-wise, the Creta EV is expected to be more competitive, with an estimated range between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom).
Conclusion
Hyundai's decision to discontinue the Kona Electric in India marks the end of an era but also sets the stage for a new chapter with the Creta EV. This strategic shift underscores Hyundai's commitment to making electric mobility more accessible and appealing to a broader audience in India. With the Creta EV, Hyundai aims to capture a larger share of the growing EV market, offering advanced technology, robust performance, and competitive pricing. As the automotive landscape evolves, the Creta EV is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of electric mobility in India.
