Hyundai Kona EV

USCar Trader import service

Import this model from the USA or Canada

Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.

Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

CarHub · Hyundai

Hyundai Kona EV

The Hyundai Kona Electric earned a loyal following in North America as one of the first affordable long-range EVs, and a healthy stock of used examples now trickles onto the American market.

Body style
Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): 5-door subcompact crossover
Drivetrain
Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): Front-wheel drive
Motor
Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): Single PMSM, 150 kW (201 hp)
Torque
Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): 395 Nm
Hyundai Kona EV

Model profile

Model history and generations

Production years and key changes

The first-generation Kona Electric (internal code OS) reached US showrooms as a 2019 model, sold as the "Kona Electric." Unlike the later dedicated E-GMP cars, it rides on a converted combustion platform, so it keeps a compact footprint and a conventional 400-volt architecture. Two batteries were offered globally, but the US market received almost exclusively the 64 kWh long-range pack.

Powertrain and equipment

Engines, drivetrain and trims

What is under the hood

Every Kona Electric is front-wheel drive with a single permanent-magnet synchronous motor. The 64 kWh first-gen car makes 150 kW (201 hp) and 395 Nm, good for roughly 258 miles of EPA range and a 0–60 mph time near 6.4 seconds.

Trims and body styles

The Kona Electric is a five-door subcompact crossover only; there is no coupe or convertible. US trims evolved over the run — SEL, Limited and Ultimate on the first generation, then SE, SEL and Limited on the second.

Vehicle selection

North American market and suitability

What the US market offers

Used Kona Electrics are most common in the ZEV states — California, Oregon, Washington and the Northeast — where they sold in the largest numbers.

Who this import is for

A used Kona EV import suits a buyer who wants a proven, right-sized electric crossover with real range and low running costs, and who values Hyundai's long powertrain warranty history.

Vehicle data

Technical data by generation and specification

Engine and drivetrain

Body styleDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): 5-door subcompact crossover
DrivetrainDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): Front-wheel drive
MotorDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): Single PMSM, 150 kW (201 hp)
TorqueDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): 395 Nm
Battery (usable)Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~64 kWh lithium-ion NMC
EPA rangeDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~258 miles (~415 km)
0–60 mphDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~6.4 s
Top speedDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~104 mph (167 km/h)
DC fast charge (peak)Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~75–77 kW (CCS Combo 1)
AC onboard chargerDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): 7.2 kW
LengthDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~4,205 mm
Curb weightDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): ~1,685 kg
SeatingDetail (first-gen 64 kWh): 5
Production years (US)Detail (first-gen 64 kWh): 2019–present

Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.

Pre-purchase review

Model-specific inspection points

Reliability: trouble spots to check

Kona EV reliability is generally strong, but there is one headline issue. Early 2019–2020 cars with LG Energy Solution cells were subject to a worldwide recall over a rare risk of battery fire; Hyundai's fix ranged from a software/BMS update to a full pack replacement.

Germany and Europe

Differences, adaptation and registration

US vs. Europe differences

The most practical difference is the charging inlet: US cars use CCS Combo 1, while European infrastructure uses CCS Combo 2.

From modifications to registration

Typical TÜV items are the rear fog lamp, amber-to-red rear lighting compliance, headlight aiming, and a check that the odometer and speedometer display metric units where required.

USCar Trader services

Inspection, purchase processing and escrow

As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.

  • Vehicle profile and history: The profile can show the VIN, US title status and available history records. No data source guarantees that every earlier event was reported.
  • Optional CARFAX report: Additional reported maintenance or service entries can be included. The report is not a complete service book or proof of every interval.
  • On-site inspection / USCT AutoCheck: USCar Trader can arrange a separately booked vehicle inspection. Agreed visible and accessible areas are documented. Road or functional tests require suitable access and seller approval; the visual review is not a lift inspection or workshop diagnosis.
  • Purchase processing and escrow: After approval, USCar Trader can coordinate seller contact, negotiation, contract and the escrow and import service. Fees, payment route and responsibilities are recorded in advance.
  • Recalls: Open safety recalls can be checked by VIN through the NHTSA recall search; they do not describe overall condition.

Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.

Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.

Import process

Import, customs, costs and delivery

How the import works

The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.

Questions and answers

Common questions about importing this model

Is the Hyundai Kona EV a good import from the USA?

Yes, for a right-sized, efficient daily EV it is one of the more sensible US imports, provided the battery recall is done and the charging and lighting are converted for Europe.

Does this vehicle automatically qualify for a 0% import-duty rate?

No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

What is the real range of a used Kona Electric?

The 64 kWh first generation is rated around 258 miles EPA; expect roughly 350–400 km in mixed real-world driving depending on climate and the heat pump.

How fast does the Kona EV charge?

The first generation peaks near 75 kW on DC, so a 10–80% top-up takes roughly 45–50 minutes; the second generation charges faster.

What are the most common Kona EV problems?

The early LG battery recall is the main one; otherwise 12V battery drain and minor infotainment issues are the usual complaints.

Will the CCS charging work in Germany?

After converting from CCS Combo 1 to CCS Combo 2, yes — the car charges on standard European DC and AC networks.

Does USCar Trader sell the Kona EV directly?

No. We are an independent broker for used US vehicles and arrange the purchase, transport and clearance on your behalf.

How can a specific Hyundai Kona EV be checked from Germany?

Available VIN, title and history information can be reviewed in the vehicle profile. USCar Trader can also arrange a separately booked on-site inspection within a scope agreed in advance.

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