The first larger electric vehicles are on their way, two weeks after new motor car legislation amendments passed in the House of Assembly.

Auto Solutions announced yesterday that it is expecting a shipment of the 2025 Hyundai Kona EV model by this autumn.

The firm’s sales and operations manager, Harry Andrews, said: “We have seen significant interest in the Hyundai Kona EV 2025, and we are thrilled to finally be able to offer this fantastic vehicle to our customers.”

The Motor Car (Electric or Hybrid Private Motor Cars) Amendment Act 2024, passed on June 28, allows for the importation of electric and hybrid vehicles up to 176in long and 72in wide, an increase of one inch in both dimensions.

Mr Andrews said the legislative changes have opened new possibilities for electric vehicle ownership in Bermuda. The larger vehicles, in the new I class, will have a Transport Control Department licensing fee of $1,689.50.

The 2025 all-electric Hyundai Kona will be available at Auto Solutions starting in October or November.

This compact SUV includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and a range of 200 miles per charge on the standard range model.

“It is expected to be a popular choice among Bermuda’s drivers,” Mr Andrews said.

To demonstrate Auto Solutions’ confidence in the market, the car dealership on St John’s Road in Pembroke has ordered 20 of the cars.

Glen Smith, managing director of Auto Solutions, said the passing of the Motor Car Amendment Act 2024 was a significant milestone for Bermuda’s automotive industry.

“It demonstrates our commitment to embracing sustainable transportation options, and keeping in line with the Government’s mandate to import EV and hybrid vehicles only by 2035, creating a more environmentally friendly Bermuda,” he said. “We are dedicated to bringing the latest and most efficient vehicles to Bermuda.”