Affordable electric car

WHY IT WINS

HYUNDAI believes that as much as 50 per cent of its total sales could be SUVS within the next few years, so it has invested heavily in developing an all-new platform for the Kona. That platform has allowed the creation of the Kona Electric.

While the standard car underwhelmed us, the Kona EV’S 300-mile range takes victory in our Affordable Electric Car category. That means it goes further on its batteries than some thirsty petrol models on a tankful, and much further than rivals such as the VW e-golf or Nissan Leaf.

It’s a groundbreaking figure that pushes what’s possible in this sector and a statement of intent from Hyundai. Combined with the Kona’s affordable price tag, it shows that genuinely mainstream electric cars are viable now.

During our tests in the Kona Electric we worked out the 300-mile range is well within the realms of possibility, and with careful driving you’ll be able to get even more than that from the 64kwh battery.

With most electric cars, a short commute bookended by charging at home and at work is the best way to keep the EV topped up, but the Kona’s flexibility means it only needs to be charged up once a week or so, removing much of the range anxiety that comes with ownership of an EV. This is a key development in this sector.

It’s very quiet and comfortable on the move, too, because the EV gets the same multi-link rear suspension configuration as the higherspec petrol Konas. There’s a good balance between body control and comfort; only the sharpest road imperfections thud into the cabin, and even then the Kona does a decent job of softening the worst of the impacts.

A great infotainment system, a good kit list and funky SUV styling add to its appeal, but the core of the car’s talents are its genuinely usable realworld electric range and that affordable price tag.