Hyundai INSTER is Funky and Fun with Segment Leading EV Range

The 2024 Busan International Mobility Show saw the unveiling of Hyundai’s all-electric INSTER A-segment sub-compact EV. The INSTER has melds quirky design, segment-leading driving range, versatility, and advanced technology, bringing fun to a largely ignored segment.

INSTER is sold in the Korean market as the Hyundai Casper Electric, and shares its platform and body with petrol-only Casper models that were introduced in 2021.

The INSTER makes good use of space with a roomy interior within its compact SUV body and is aimed at urban dwellers who occasionally go farther afield. It comes with all the usual driver aid and safety aids, fast charging capabilities, and the best all-electric range (AER) in its segment. Hyundai claims up to 355 km, but past experience would lead us to assume somewhere between 280km and 320km.

ABOVE: 2024 Hyundai INSTER (aka Casper Electric)

This funky, eco-friendly SUV merges agility, driving dynamics, and seamless connectivity. Its compact size ensures increased efficiency compared to larger models, making it a practical choice for city driving and spontaneous road trips.

The INSTER’s fun exterior design builds on the legacy of the petrol-powered CASPER, introduced exclusively in Korea in 2021. The INSTER features an extended body and wheelbase, providing more interior space and a rugged road presence. Positioned between traditional A-segment city cars and larger B-segment models, the INSTER offers enhanced practicality and flexibility with its spacious interior and improved luggage capacity.

Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of the Hyundai Design Centre, stated, “With the INSTER, we’ve taken the small SUV image to a bold new place for the global audience. The INSTER punches well above its weight with a distinctive design and an interior that maximizes its potential in exciting, customer-centric ways. We’re redefining what it means to drive a sub-compact EV, making it a symbol of freedom, inclusivity, and self-expression.”

The INSTER’s exterior features robust yet clean surfaces, strong fenders, a high-tech bumper, and a bold skid plate, enhancing its front and rear designs. Its LED daytime running lights, pixel-graphic turn signals, and customizable exterior options, including vibrant two-tone combinations, add to its unique and lively personality.

Inside, the INSTER offers the travellers technology and convenience within a 10.25-inch digital cluster and infotainment touchscreen, and the obligatory “Gen Z friendly” wireless charging dock. The interior design uses customisable elements to allow owners to personalise their vehicles with flair. The seats can be folded flat, including the driver’s seat, for increased flexibility. Heated front seats and a front bench seat option are also available, while the second-row seats offer split, slide, and recline functionality.

The INSTER is available in various exterior colours, including Atlas White, Tomboy Khaki, Bijarim Khaki Matte, and new hues like Sienna Orange Metallic and Buttercream Yellow Pearl. Interior trim choices include Black, and Khaki Brown and Newtro Beige two-tone options. Both the exterior and interior utilize sustainable materials, such as recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and bio-polypropylene, underscoring Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability.

The INSTER excels with its DC fast charging speed and segment-leading range. It comes with a standard 42 kWh battery, with a Long-Range 49 kWh battery option. Both variants feature a single motor, providing 71.1 kW (97 PS) in the base model and 84.5 kW (115 PS) in the Long-Range version. The INSTER offers a projected range of 355 km on a single charge for the Long-Range model and an estimated energy consumption of 15.3 kWh/100 km, ensuring you can reach your destination with ease.

The INSTER’s DC High-Power charging capability allows it to charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. It also includes an 11 kW on-board charger, a battery heating system, and a high-efficiency heat pump. The vehicle features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for external device charging, enhancing its practicality for various activities and adventures.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the INSTER includes advanced safety and driver assistance features. It offers a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as a Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear, Blind-spot View Monitor, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

The INSTER will initially launch in Korea this summer, followed by Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. Most features will come standard, with optional enhancements available. An additional variant, INSTER CROSS, featuring a rugged, outdoor-focused design, will be introduced later.

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