Hyundai has recently announced the release of a new electric car, the Casper, which will be known as the Inster in the European market. This compact and affordable city hatchback is aimed at young drivers looking for an electric vehicle that is both stylish and budget-friendly. Hyundai has positioned the Casper/Inster as the „new standard for popularizing electric vehicles,“ highlighting its appeal to a younger demographic.
One of the key features of the Casper/Inster is its compact size, making it ideal for navigating crowded city streets. Despite its small footprint, the car offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with ample room in the second row and trunk. With a length of 3825 mm, the Casper is even smaller than the Chevy Bolt, yet it boasts a trunk volume of 280 liters, expandable to 351 liters when the rear seats are folded down.
Hyundai has made significant improvements to the ride quality of the Casper/Inster by increasing the wheelbase by approximately 180 mm. Early reviewers have noted that the car provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even in challenging conditions such as heavy rain. The car’s performance is commendable, with no noticeable shaking or vibration even during rapid acceleration.
In terms of technology, the Casper/Inster is equipped with two displays – a 10.25-inch infotainment system and a driver’s display. While the interior features fabric and plastic materials, some cost-cutting measures are evident, such as the absence of a center console and the need for a USB cable to connect a smartphone. However, the car does come with essential safety features like warnings for speeding and proximity to other vehicles.
The electric vehicle is available in two versions – Standard and Long-Range – with a choice of a 42 kWh or 49 kWh battery. Both versions utilize the same electric motor, with the Standard model offering a range of up to 315 km and a top speed of 140 km/h. The Long-Range version boasts a range of 355 km and a top speed of 150 km/h, making it ideal for longer journeys. Additionally, the Casper/Inster can be charged quickly, going from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
In terms of pricing, the Hyundai Casper Standard will be available in South Korea for $23 thousand, with government subsidies bringing the cost down to $17 thousand. In Europe, the Hyundai Inster with a range of 355 km will start at €25 thousand, making it an attractive option for environmentally-conscious consumers.
Overall, the Hyundai Casper/Inster represents a significant step forward in the electric vehicle market, offering a compelling combination of affordability, style, and performance. With its compact size, spacious interior, and impressive range, the Casper/Inster is poised to make a splash in the European market and appeal to a new generation of drivers.