Hyundai electric
The Hyundai electric brand is very popular with French motorists. In fact, electric models feature in the top-selling electric cars in the first half of 2022such as Hyundai Kona Electric for example.
1. Hyundai Kona Electric
Launched in 2018, this SUV 100 % electric is available in 2 engine versions (39.2 and 64.8 kWh) with a autonomy of up to 484 km on a single charge. The long-range 2024 version boasts a slightly improved range of 490 km thanks to a battery of 64.8 kWh.
In terms of design, the interior of this electric vehicle promises even greater comfort and versatility. The 2024 model is even more spacious, with a 25 mm increase in length and slimmer 30 % front seats to maximise legroom for rear passengers.
Like all other current electric cars, it features a dual 12.3-inch screen, offering a more immersive user experience and enhanced connectivity via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Bluelink® to control various vehicle parameters remotely.
For a more enjoyable family trip, there are always accessories specially designed for this type of travel, including :
- roof bars
- roof boxes for transporting everything you need in complete safety
- a hitch for towing accessories such as a bike carrier, and a load capacity of up to 300 kg for towing a small caravan.
What's more, the second generation of the Kona Electric was unveiled at the end of 2023. This new, larger and more spacious version has been available at dealerships since the 1ᵉʳ half-year of 2024 with hybrid and 100 % electric powertrains, including an option offering up to 260 miles of range (approximately 418 km).
The Hyundai Kona Electric is available from Beev from €41,700
2. Hyundai Ioniq 6
While the brand with the big H launched the IONIQ 5 at the beginning of 2022, the new generation of the the IONIQ 6 was released in 2024, marking a real step forward in the electric range from Hyundai.
This new IONIQ 6, initially announced for 2020, is Hyundai's first electric saloon, with an exterior design measuring 4.85 m in length. At first glance, its profile aerodynamics and fluidity evokes a Mercedes EQE or a Tesla Model 3while its modern lines also bring it closer to the Model Y.
For 2024, the IONIQ 6 will boast a range of 543 km with a long-range battery of 77.4 kWh519 km for the four-wheel-drive version. This model also features advanced technologies, including an infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens and semi-autonomous driving options for a smoother, more connected driving experience.
The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is available from Beev from €56,900
Electric Kia
As for Kia, this other Korean brand continued to offer numerous electric cars during 2024, with equipment that meets the current needs of buyers.
According to Kia Corporation, sales of the brand's electric vehicles in France have soared, with 15,438 units registered in the first half of 2024representing approximately 64 % of total sales of Kia over this period. This increase underlines the growing appeal of electric models such as the Kia EV6 and the Kia Niro EVwhich continue to appeal to consumers thanks to their performance and improved autonomy.
3. Kia EV6
One of the electric cars that has won over many motorists, both visually and technically, is the Kia EV6. She was also elected best electric car of the year in 2022, ahead of models such as the Renault Megane E-Tech and theHyundai Ioniq 5.
Visually, the manufacturer has chosen to combine modernity and sportiness on the Kia EV6, with exterior lines revisited in 2024. For example, the new headlights "Star Map LED and a redesigned radiator grille give it an even bolder look. The model now benefits from an improved 84 kWhwith a maximum range of 361 miles (around 580 km) on a single charge. About the handles, Kia was inspired by the sleek designs of the vehicles Teslawith flush-fitting handles for improved aerodynamics.
Interior enhancements include more advanced technology with dual 12.3 inches and wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Onboard comfort has also been enhanced, with more upmarket materials and optimised storage space, particularly under the centre console.
4. Kia Niro EV
La Kia e-Niro made its debut in 2018, becoming the Korean brand's first electric SUV. In 2022, the manufacturer restyled the vehicle slightly and gave it a new name: the Kia Niro EV.
The 2024 model retains the broad lines of this restyling, with a length of 4.42 metresbut with a number of technical improvements. The battery remains 64.8 kWhwith a maximum range of 253 miles (about 408 km in accordance with EPA). In terms of powertrains, the Kia Niro EV continues to develop 201 horses with a couple of 188 lb-ft.
The battery is always fully charged in 6 hours with an 11 kW AC charger and 43 minutes to go from 10 % to 80 % on a 350 kW DC fast-charging station.
The Kia Niro EV is available from Beev from €44,640
5. Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 will be the brand's first full-size 100 % electric SUV, marking a new era for Kia. Officially unveiled in 2023, the Kia EV9, a 7-seat family SUV, combines futuristic design with impressive performance.
This vehicle, based on the E-GMP electric platform, has a battery of 99.8 kWh offering autonomy of up to 349 miles (about 560 km) according to the WLTP standard. The top-of-the-range model with two electric motors develops 378 hpwhich will accelerate 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. Thanks to its ultra-fast recharging system of 800 voltsit is possible to recover 154 miles (around 248 km) of range in just 15 minutes.
The vehicle's generous dimensions make it one of the most spacious SUVs on the market, with a length of 5.01 metres and a wheelbase of 3.10 metres. In terms of comfort, the EV9 offers different seating configurations, including an option with 180-degree swivel seats in the second row, ideal for family travel. The interior is also eco-responsible, using recycled materials, including plastics and PET from post-consumer waste.
The Kia EV 9 is available from Beev from €73,000
In conclusion
The years to come promise to be electrifying, as it will be a the end of internal combustion vehicles and the full use of electric vehicles. To prepare for the years ahead, car brands are gradually electrifying their catalogues, incorporating new-generation equipment that meets the needs of today's motorists.
With what the Korean manufacturers have already proposed for this year, it's clear that the next electric cars promise great innovations for the years to come.
