Comparing the 2020 Kia e-Niro and 2021 Hyundai Kona electric cars

In recent years, electric vehicles have become an integral part of the automotive industry, offering an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solution. According to statistics, these vehicles produce 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional cars. They convert most of their energy into motion, are quiet to drive, and are easy to handle. But even so, electric cars cannot completely replace average European cars with internal combustion engines (ICEs). That said, according to a study by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, by 2040, electric vehicles could account for one-third of the global market.

For now, two Korean brands stand out in particular: the 2020 Kia e-Niro and the 2021 Hyundai Kona. Let’s take a look at how they differ.

Types of Electric Vehicles

There are only two types of electric vehicles on the market today:

• Battery-powered. These vehicles are equipped with a high-capacity battery that is charged from external power sources. The battery provides a range of up to 480 km. Some models feature an additional gasoline engine that functions as a generator. The engine produces electricity to charge the vehicle, which is especially useful when there is no access to a charging station.
• Fuel-cell. Electric vehicles run on a hydrogen fuel cell that acts as the engine. These vehicles are equipped with one or more small-capacity batteries, which are needed for emergencies. Since liquid hydrogen is used to refuel the generator, a special compartment is provided in the vehicle body. Fuel-cell electric cars are known for their smooth and quiet ride and substantial range—500–600 km on a full tank.

The drawback of the first type is that the gasoline engine is not connected to the wheels: it cannot be used to power the vehicle. The second type also has a downside: the necessary fuel is not available at all gas stations. According to forecasts, liquid hydrogen will not become widely available at dedicated refueling stations until 2030. For now, electric vehicle manufacturers themselves provide the necessary fuel supply.

Kia Niro EV vs. Hyundai Kona Electric: Appearance and Design

The differences between electric cars and conventional cars with internal combustion engines are significant. In addition to environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, the differences lie in design features, technical specifications, and driving characteristics.

The main difference between an electric vehicle and a conventional car is the absence of an internal combustion engine and a transmission. Instead, these vehicles are equipped with a motor and a special battery that can be charged from:

• the power grid;
• a solar panel;
• a charging station.

The battery is located inside the vehicle; this is necessary to prevent fires caused by mechanical damage. For example, in the Hyundai Kona, the large batteries are hidden beneath the body. As a result, the design has become safer, sturdier, and more reliable. In addition, thanks to the battery’s considerable weight (450 kg), the center of gravity has been lowered. This improves maneuverability and handling.

The Kia e-Niro is a full-fledged electric car that runs exclusively on electric power. The vehicle features a sturdy structure, which gives the driver confidence even when making sharp turns. Thanks to a special power steering system, steering the Kia e-Niro is as easy and comfortable as possible. The car brakes much faster than a conventional vehicle, thanks to the unique process of converting kinetic energy into electrical energy.

Externally, the Hyundai Kona and Kia e-Niro are almost indistinguishable from conventional cars. Moreover, they look similar, even though they are produced by two different brands. But there are still differences:

• Kia. It features the classic body style of a gasoline-powered crossover. The interior is spacious, stylish, and modern. The comfortable seats are trimmed with bluish stripes that only enhance the futuristic design. The exterior features angular lines that emphasize the dynamic nature of the overall design. The wheels (17 inches) are made of aluminum alloy with a diamond-cut finish and a two-tone design.
• Hyundai. It is equipped with lightweight alloy wheels (16- and 17-inch), typical for electric cars. The Korean crossover features a highly functional interior: the rear seats can be folded down in a 60:40 split. However, interior space is still limited. The cabin is equipped with two large multimedia screens and a digital instrument cluster. The exterior has an aggressive, stylish, and dynamic look.

A common feature of both models is the absence of a radiator grille with cooling vents, since the generator and battery generate almost no heat.

Kia Niro EV vs. Hyundai Kona Electric: Technical Specifications

Both models have similar specifications, as the electric vehicles are built on the same platform. The differences lie only in a few details. For example, Hyundai equipped its electric car with an LG Chem battery, while Kia used one from SK Innovation. The battery capacity is also identical: 64 kWh.

Range is considered a key characteristic of any electric vehicle—that is, the distance in kilometers the vehicle can travel on a single battery charge. The longer the range, the better, since electric vehicles take quite a long time to recharge. Hyundai and Kia differ slightly in this regard. The claimed range for the Kona is 500 km, while that for the e-Niro is 380 km. However, according to tests, the Kia’s actual range turned out to be 19% higher than stated.

It’s also worth considering energy consumption:

• Kia – 22.8 kWh per 100 km;
• Hyundai – 23.4 kWh per 100 km.

The models can accelerate to 167 km/h in 7.6–7.9 seconds. Power output depends on the vehicle’s trim level but averages 200 l. s.

Kia e-Niro vs. Hyundai Kona Electric: Price

Since the models are very similar, choosing between them is quite difficult. The cars have virtually identical technical specifications and design, and cost almost the same.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to officially purchase the latest Kia and Hyundai models in our country. This is because many companies currently have no plans to expand electric vehicle sales in Ukraine. Therefore, the only way to get the car you want is to order it from the U.S. or China.

If you’d like to buy one of these Korean electric cars, we recommend looking into used cars from North America or new ones from China. The price of the base model Kia ranges from $34,000 to $38,000. A Hyundai will cost you about the same—$34,000–$39,000. Our company can help you easily order a new electric car with a warranty starting at $24,000.