Hyundai has revealed the first teaser images of its new all-electric subcompact SUV, the Inster. Set to debut in Europe, the Inster is classified as an A-segment vehicle, which is the smallest category of passenger cars as defined by the European Commission. This small SUV is expected to combine sleek design with new technology and impressive performance, all at a relatively affordable price for a new EV.
The Inster draws design inspiration from the Korean-market, gas-powered Hyundai Casper, though the EV has a more modern, distinctly Hyundai design. The teaser images showcase LED daytime running lights on the front end along with pixel-graphic taillights and turn signals on the rear, a nod to other Hyundai EVs like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.
With its small size and likely relatively lightweight construction, Hyundai claims that the Inster has a maximum range of 220 miles. That’s less than other Hyundai models, but should still offer enough distance for many commuters. Slated to have its official debut at the Busan International Mobility Show on June 27, the Inster is expected to make a splash as a low-cost option in the competitive EV market.
The full picture of Inster pricing and the global sales plan hasn’t been revealed, but here’s what we know. The gas-powered Casper it’s based on sells for the equivalent of about $15,000 in Korea, while other compact EVs like the Volkswagen ID.2 and Kia EV3 are expected to debut soon with prices starting around $25,000 to $30,000. These two EVs are larger and offer more range than the Inster, so the new Hyundai may hit dealerships at an even lower price.
So far, the Inster has only been confirmed in Europe, and there’s no official word from Hyundai on a potential U.S. debut. That said, the company has publicly stated its goal for all cars sold in Europe to be electrified by 2035, with a similar goal for the rest of the world by 2040. This, combined with the fact that Hyundai’s first dedicated EV mass-production plant is set to open later this year in the States, makes it seem like the Inster’s American debut is only a matter of time.
