Is the Kona EV dead in Canada?

I had heard that the Kona eEV would be replaced by the Ioniq3 in 2023 but this article indicates that another iteration of the Kona EV is planned.


https://topelectricsuv.com/news/hyundai/next-gen-hyundai-kona-ev-future/


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Nice to see the platform continuing but as always on a model update they decided to make the car larger.

 

Interesting.

I can think of three possible reasons.

1. To continue to offer a smaller EV than the Ioniq platform can support, maybe?
2. To continue offering an EV option in the Kona line.
3. The article says “It will be difficult for Hyundai to completely exclude LG Chem’s products from the second-generation Kona Electric due to the existing contract.” So they need to stick those batteries somewhere, and aren't going to risk blowing up any beautiful new Ioniqs.

 

It's probably cheaper to use existing Kona production plants than start producing another lower cost EV at this time. They are already constrained with getting the Ioniq 5 out, and likely want to get the Ioniq 7 (larger SUV) going before the smaller Ioniq 3. So it may be just a matter of priority and most profitable utilization of their production facilities.

 

I just placed a order for Kona EV 2023 through the dealership.

 

I'm guessing that a major constraint is still batteries, with the GM and Kona replacements still underway