Hyundai is giving a sneak preview of its upcoming electric small car, set (for now) to be called the Inster. Based on the Korean-market Casper hatchback-slash-crossover, the Inster is targeting a one-charge range of up to 355km.
Chunky styling
Hyundai wants the Inster to compete with the likes of the BYD Seagull, the Dacia Spring, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.1, but there are no indications yet of just how affordable it will be. Using the Casper’s rather characterful Jeep-esque styling might allow Hyundai to pitch it at a slightly more expensive price point than the short-ranged Dacia. Certainly, the Hyundai will have a longer one-charge range and will likely be a little more ‘premium’ in its cabin fixtures and fittings.
All we do know for the moment is that it uses the chunky, upright look of the Casper, combined with some touches from the Ioniq electric car range, such as the ‘Pixel’ LED lights and a blanked-off grille.
Sticking with small cars
It forms part of a general Hyundai plan not to abandon the small car markets in Asia and Europe. Even though the likes of Ford has already canned the still-popular Fiesta, Hyundai has previously said that next-generation models of the i10, i20, and i30 are all in the works, although it’s certainly possible that these could morph from conventional hatchbacks into more crossover-y styles in order to keep pace with what the market demands.
Coming to Europe?
It’s also possible that the Inster name might not make the trip to Europe. It’s not yet been confirmed if this new electric model will make it to our shores as yet - although it does seem likely, even if the petrol-powered Casper is most definitely not coming here. If Hyundai does bring the Inster here, it’s possible that it will get a European name change to fit in with the rest of the all-electric Ioniq lineup. Ioniq 1 seems fitting, although given how small it is, maybe Ioniq 0.5?
We’ll find out more later this month when the Inster is fully revealed at the Busan motor show in Korea.