Key Takeaways
- Hyundai reveals the new Inster, an affordable and compact electric crossover.
- Up to 113 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque from a single electric motor.
- WLTP-estimated range of 186 miles (standard model) and 221 miles (Long Range).
- It will launch in Korea later this year and will be made available in several other markets, but there is no word on a North American introduction.
Hyundai has entered the affordable EV market with the new Inster, a cheap and compact battery-electric crossover that aims to bring EV ownership within the reach of millions. With funky styling, compact dimensions, and a truly impressive claimed range (for the class), the Inster is everything a trendy, eco-conscious urbanite is looking for.
Two versions will be offered: a standard model with a 42-kWh battery and a Long-Range variant with a 49-kWh pack. The Inster is powered by a single electric motor with varying outputs. The former produces 96 horsepower, while the latter offers 113 hp. Torque is rated at 108 lb-ft for both variants. What the electric duo lacks in outright power, it makes up for in efficiency and range.
2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
- Base MSRP
- $32,675
- Engine
- Electric
- Horsepower
- 133 hp
- Fuel Economy
- 131/105 MPG
- Electric Range
- 200 – 261 miles
Impressive Efficiency And Claimed Range
The Inster’s WLTP-estimated efficiency figure is 15.3 kWh/100 km (13.9 MPGe). Its claimed range is 186 miles for the standard model and 221 miles for the Long-Range model (with 15-inch wheels). When plugged into a 120 kW DC charging station, the Inster can replenish its battery from 10-80% in 30 minutes. Customers can specify a battery heating system and a high-efficiency heat pump. Hyundai says the Inster has bidirectional charging, which means it can charge electric scooters, bicycles, and other devices.
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While the Inster shares its bare bones with the ICE-powered Casper, Hyundai has differentiated the two with unique styling details. Hyundai has made several changes to the platform, lengthening the wheelbase and body to offer more interior space. Hyundai has cleverly positioned the Inster between the mini-compact and subcompact classes to cater to a wider range of consumers. It offers more space and practicality than smaller vehicles but is easier to park and maneuver than subcompacts – an important factor in crowded cities. The Inster measures 150 inches long, 63.4 inches wide, and 62 inches tall. The wheelbase is 101.5 inches in length.
“With Inster, we’ve taken the small SU image to a bold new place for the global audience. Inster punches well above its weight with distinctive design and an interior that maximizes its potential in exciting, customer-centric ways. With Inster, we’re redefining what it means to drive a sub-compact EV.”
– Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of the Hyundai Design Center
Funky Design With Style-Conscious Appeal
It’s funky-looking, with modern pixel-graphic turn signals, taillamps, and LED headlights. Customers can opt for a contrasting black roof and 15-inch steel wheels or 15- or 17-inch alloy wheels. This will vary based on the chosen specification. The Inster is littered with lovely detailing, including hidden rear door handles, squared-off fenders, off-road-inspired black plastic cladding, and silver-colored skid plates. It bears a resemblance to contemporary Hyundai models, such as the new Santa Fe, while maintaining its individuality. Customers can choose from nine exterior colors: Buttercream Yellow Pearl, Sienna Orange Metallic, Bijarim Khaki Matte, and Unbleached Ivory are just some of the paint options.
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The Inster may be a budget EV, but the interior is anything but. For a start, the compact car receives a 10.25-inch digital cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with satellite navigation. A wireless charger is integrated into the center console to maximize space. Hyundai says all the seats (even the driver’s seat) can be folded flat, making the Inster a versatile and practical motorcar. The 50:50 split-folding rear seats slide and recline, while the front-row seating offers walk-through access to the rear row. Customers can choose from a front bench seat, along with a heated steering wheel and seats. 64-color ambient lighting, a sunroof, and digital dials are also available.
Pricing And Availability
As for the interior trim choices, Hyundai will offer Black, Khaki Brown, and Newtro Beige two-tone cloth trim. Hyundai has packed the Inster with what it describes as “the most complete technology package in the segment.” This includes forward collision avoidance, parking collision avoidance, a surround-view monitor, and a blind-spot monitor. Customers can also specify additional driver assists, such as lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, and a safety exit warning, among other things.
Discussion
Would You Buy A $22,000 Hyundai EV?
The Hyundai Casper EV would cost around $22,000 if it came to the US. Would you buy it for that price?
The Inster is unlikely to be offered in America, and that’s a shame, as the US market is sorely lacking a cheap electric vehicle. Something affordable like the new Hyundai will make EV ownership more attainable and speed up mass adoption. Pricing is yet to be announced, but rumors suggest it will be priced around the $21,500 mark. For perspective, the cheapest Hyundai electric car in the USA is the $32,675 Kona Electric. The Inster will first launch in Korea later this year before heading to the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Europe. The automaker notes that a more rugged Inster Cross will join the lineup at a later date.
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