Hyundai announces Inster name for tiny BEV
BY MATT BROGAN | 11th Jun 2024
HYUNDAI has named the all-electric version of its pint-sized Casper SUV ‘Inster’, in what it says is an “intimate and innovative” title that reflects the desires of up-and-coming battery electric vehicle (BEV) buyers.
Due to go on sale in Europe later this year, the Hyundai Inster will be marketed as an entry-level electric vehicle with a likely start price of less than €20,000 (or $A32,650) on the continent.
Setting its sights on similarly priced Chinese rivals, the Inster will utilise a modified version the four-seat Hyundai Casper’s chassis and body, altered only to accommodate the high-voltage battery, necessary cooling equipment and electric motors.
Hyundai’s petrol-powered Casper range (also pictured) remains unaltered.
“The automotive landscape in Europe is changing and electrification is at the forefront with a vision of a sustainable future,” said Hyundai Motor Europe vice president of marketing, product and public relations Andreas-Christoph Hofmann.
“Hyundai is leading the way. By 2035 we will only sell electric cars in Europe. So, we will stick to our original strategy. On the way to this goal, we remain committed to expanding our electric line-up to cater to every lifestyle of the European market.
“Today, we are proud to introduce you to the latest addition to Hyundai’s EV line-up, Inster.
“The name Inster stands for intimate and innovative. It celebrates its audience’s love for seamless interaction and connectivity. It is perfectly aligned with their fast-paced digital lifestyle. It reflects Inster’s innovative tech character and versatility.”
Mr Hofmann said the Inster will offer an electric alternative to the Casper, giving Hyundai an entrant in an important – and expanding – segment of the European market.
“Inster is Hyundai’s first ever A segment electric car designed especially for the European market, and this car is coming at just the right time,” he added.
“The market and customers want an affordable EV (and) many of our competitors will be introducing new models in this segment, and it is expected that sales in the segment will experience a strong increase year on year.”
In Europe, the Inster will rival the likes of the Citroen e-C3 and Dacia Spring, as well as imports including the BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora, Kia Ray, and MG 4.
Like those vehicles the Inster is expected to receive a boxy body, LED lighting, and up-to-date tech, likely including over-the-air software updates and remote access.
While powertrain details are still a closely guarded secret, it would be reasonable to assume the Inster shares some of its mechanicals with the similarly sized Kia Ray.
That model has a 35.2kWh LFP battery and driving range of 205km. It is powered by a front axle mounted electric motor with available outputs of 50kW or 64kW.
