Overall Ownership Experience
I've always wanted to own an electric car, and being part of multiple EV forums and platforms, I saw the shift towards this powertrain. Finally, in January 2023, despite some apprehensions, I went ahead and bought the Hyundai Kona Electric (CKD unit)—fully aware that Hyundai India would soon discontinue it.
I got a great deal, and it seemed like the best option considering my budget and requirements. Now, with 42,000 km driven—exclusively on highways—I have a fair bit of experience to share.
Exterior
- The Kona feels more like a crossover than an SUV.
- Typical Hyundai design language with LED DRLs and Bi-LED headlamps.
Interior
- Top-notch quality—you immediately notice the difference between a CKD unit and a locally manufactured Hyundai.
Leather upholstery, digital odometer, and a 7-inch touchscreen (though small by 2023 standards).
Brilliantly designed central console with paddle shifters and well-functioning switches.
Features & Safety
- Auto headlamps
Ventilated (heated & cooled) seats
Wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Electronically adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support
4 driving modes (Eco+, Eco, Sport & Comfort)
Paddle shifters & regenerative braking
Driving Experience & EV Performance
- Typical Hyundai steering response—adequate but not exceptional.
Stable at high speeds, with well-calibrated braking and regenerative braking.
The 395 Nm of instant torque is mind-blowing—acceleration is superb.
Regenerative braking levels are customizable, enabling near one-pedal driving.
250 km guaranteed, even with 10% SoC remaining.
260-300 km achievable under varying conditions.
Charging & Long-Distance Usability
- AC Peak Charging: 7.2 kW
DC Peak Charging: 46-48 kW
Charging Time: 35-40 min for a decent top-up.
Highway Charging Experience: Good and improving over time.
Gone are the days of hyper-miling—with today’s infrastructure, you can drive anywhere in India with some planning.
The electric vehicle (EV) sector is still in its infancy, having only really emerged around 2020, and it’s a sector that has faced challenges such as the two years of the pandemic. As a result, it’s only about 3 years old, with many new players entering, partly thanks to the CAFC norms and government push. Though I won’t dive deeper into the industry specifics, let's focus on some crucial aspects.
The Reality of the Electric Vehicle Sector
While the electric vehicle sector, especially in the passenger 4W space, has potential, there are still many challenges. It’s not all glory, and aside from FUDs (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) and myths, there are genuine concerns that need attention:
- Resale value
- Battery life
- Fast charging infrastructure
- Reliability of the charging network
I had all these questions when I decided to switch to an EV in 2023. My primary motivation was the environmental impact of fossil fuels and the electric powertrain itself. While this was my personal drive, not everyone shares this perspective. After two years, I have full confidence in the electric powertrain, but the surrounding factors are still a work in progress.
Role of Manufacturers, Government, and EV Owners
Manufacturers, the government, stakeholders, and EV owners need to provide genuine feedback on electric 4Ws to help improve the sector. As owners, we should not be defensive but need to distinguish between facts and myths related to EVs.
- Infrastructure Issues: We’ve faced power outages at DCFC stations, and many non-functional DCFC chargers are reported along highways, especially with the HP-BPCL-IOCL chains. If the government is serious about supporting the sector, they need to address these infrastructure issues. The best EV can be ruined by poor infrastructure.
- From Range Anxiety to Charger Anxiety: The shift has moved from range anxiety to charger anxiety for 4W EVs. We’ve seen improvements with higher capacity kWh battery packs, but this makes the need for high-capacity chargers even more critical. For instance, Mahindra’s BEVs claim 18-20 minutes for 10-80% charging, but this requires 150 kW chargers.
- Charging Infrastructure: While home charging is easy and convenient (like having a fuel station at home), DCFC charging comes with challenges. There are multiple apps, multiple wallets, and though things are improving (with CPOs using RFID and auto-charge systems), not everyone is tech-savvy, and many might simply not want the hassle. This needs to change for mass adoption.
- India-Specific Issues: In India, there are unique challenges such as traffic jams, detours, and agitations that can affect EV travel, especially when the internet goes down. While EVs don’t drop SOC (State of Charge) rapidly in traffic jams, detours or internet outages can complicate travel plans. These scenarios need to be considered before recommending EVs to others.
- Infrastructure Issues: We’ve faced power outages at DCFC stations, and many non-functional DCFC chargers are reported along highways, especially with the HP-BPCL-IOCL chains. If the government is serious about supporting the sector, they need to address these infrastructure issues. The best EV can be ruined by poor infrastructure.
- From Range Anxiety to Charger Anxiety: The shift has moved from range anxiety to charger anxiety for 4W EVs. We’ve seen improvements with higher capacity kWh battery packs, but this makes the need for high-capacity chargers even more critical. For instance, Mahindra’s BEVs claim 18-20 minutes for 10-80% charging, but this requires 150 kW chargers.
- Charging Infrastructure: While home charging is easy and convenient (like having a fuel station at home), DCFC charging comes with challenges. There are multiple apps, multiple wallets, and though things are improving (with CPOs using RFID and auto-charge systems), not everyone is tech-savvy, and many might simply not want the hassle. This needs to change for mass adoption.
- India-Specific Issues: In India, there are unique challenges such as traffic jams, detours, and agitations that can affect EV travel, especially when the internet goes down. While EVs don’t drop SOC (State of Charge) rapidly in traffic jams, detours or internet outages can complicate travel plans. These scenarios need to be considered before recommending EVs to others.
Final Thoughts on EV Technology
Even after using the technology and confidently coming home with low SOC, I trust the electric powertrain itself. However, there are many external factors to consider, which I can't ignore:
Even after using the technology and confidently coming home with low SOC, I trust the electric powertrain itself. However, there are many external factors to consider, which I can't ignore:
- Recommendation: I wouldn’t blindly recommend this technology to everyone in my circle. EVs can make great secondary cars, especially if you have a charging point at home. For highway trips, you need to rely on infrastructure, which is okay in some areas, great in others, but still poor in some regions. Yes, you can always find a 15A socket, but this still doesn’t match the convenience and reliability of options like CNG, which has been around for 14 years.
In conclusion, the ease of home charging, running costs, driving dynamics, and torque are all excellent features of EVs, but the infrastructure, charging hassles, and reliability concerns can’t be ignored. OEMs, government agencies, and EV advocates need to address these issues for the EV sector to truly flourish.
Service & Maintenance Experience
- Service Interval: 10,000 km
Maintenance Requirements:
Cabin air filter: Changed every service.
Brake oil: Replaced every 20,000 km.
Coolant: Due for replacement at 60,000 km.
Cost so far: ₹13,000 (after 40,000 km).
Experience at Joshi Hyundai, Chandigarh:
Smooth & hassle-free.
Portable charger replaced under warranty.
Charging flap replaced under warranty.
Things You Like & Dislike
What I Like About the Hyundai Kona Electric:
- Silent electric powertrain with instant torque.
Best of both worlds—can be efficient or fun.
Premium CKD unit quality—superior fit and finish.
Loaded with safety features—6 airbags, Hill Hold/Assist, EPB, etc.
Well-equipped—ventilated seats, paddle shifters, digital odometer.
A well-rounded EV package for long-term use.
Home Charging Cost: The cost per unit for home charging ranges from ₹0.60 to ₹1.50, depending on local electricity rates.
Energy Consumption: The Kona Electric consumes around 40-42 kW of energy to charge from 2% to 100% SOC, which translates to a cost of ₹320-420 per full charge.
Highway Charging: Even with DCFC (fast charging) on highways, the cost remains lower than any ICE vehicle.
Average Running Cost: After driving 42,000 km, the running cost is around ₹1.47/km, with 37% of the charging done via DCFC and the remaining 63% through home charging (15A - 7.2 kW).
Total Service and Charging Cost: Adding the service cost (₹13,472) and charging cost (₹62,464) gives a total of ₹75,936 for 42,000 km, bringing the overall running cost to approximately ₹1.79/km.
Dislikes in the Kona Electric:
- Low ground clearance—constant worry over speed breakers and potholes.
Rear space is cramped—not comfortable for three adults.
No connected car features & no wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (had to get a dongle).
Expensive spare parts due to CKD status.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a well-packaged, premium EV, offering great driving dynamics, reliability, and a decent feature set. Despite a few shortcomings, it remains a solid choice in the EV market.
