Hyundai Kona Electric packs epic EV range

There will be two versions of the Kona Electric to start.     

The less expensive variant will pack a 133-horsepower, 291-pound-foot electric motor mated to a 39.2-kWh lithium ion battery, which Hyundai estimates will provide for 186 miles of range by European measurements.    

That's better than the 2018 Nissan Leaf in its current form.

The larger lithium ion battery on offer packs a 64-kWh capacity allowing for an estimated range of 292 miles, which launches it ahead of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and straight into Tesla territory.

Acceleration is improved, as well, dropping the 0-62 time to from 9.3 seconds to 7.6.

From an aesthetic standpoint, not much changes between the gas and EV versions, save for a fancier-looking grille.    

Like many other new electrified vehicles, the Kona Electric packs an adjustable regenerative braking system hidden in the shift paddles.   

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation and wireless phone charging are all on offer.    

The Kona Electric also comes with Hyundai's SmartSense suite of active and passive safety systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and lane-keep assist.

Sadly, the Kona Electric is not yet slated for sale in the US, but hopefully that changes.