The Hyundai Kona Electric has been a staple in the electric vehicle market since its introduction in 2019, but it seems that sales have not met expectations. Despite launching new EVs built on dedicated platforms like the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has kept the Kona Electric around for a second generation.
However, after confirming to Car and Driver that the Kona Electric will skip the 2026 model year, Hyundai has assured consumers that there is adequate stock of 2025 model year Kona Electric to manage demand. The production of the Kona Electric will return in 2027 as a new model year, with only the base SE trim available.
This decision comes as EVs face stronger headwinds following the elimination of the federal EV tax credit by the Trump administration last fall. With the current sales numbers not meeting expectations, it's clear that Hyundai is taking a cautious approach to ensure the Kona Electric remains competitive in the market.
The lack of new inventory available for sale indicates that there may be concerns about demand for the model moving forward. Despite this, the Kona Electric has been a popular choice among consumers looking for an affordable electric vehicle option.
As the EV market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Hyundai adapts and adjusts its strategy to ensure the long-term success of the Kona Electric.
This decision by Hyundai highlights the challenges that many automakers are facing in the current EV market. With the federal tax credit eliminated, consumers have more options than ever before, making it harder for manufacturers to predict demand and sales. It will be interesting to see how Hyundai adjusts its strategy to ensure the Kona Electric remains competitive in the market.
