The 2024 Busan International Mobility Show saw the introduction of Hyundai Motor Company’s all-electric A-segment sub-compact urban EV, the INSTER. INSTER, with its distinctive design, industry-leading driving range, and cutting-edge technology, is poised to fundamentally alter the sub-compact EV market.

INSTER: Small, but Flexible

The INSTER is versatile in the subcompact class thanks to its large cabin and strong exterior design. Despite its diminutive size, the INSTER has a targeted driving range of up to 355 km, according to the WLTP. It is the most capable in its class because of its impressive range.

Creative Technology and Design

The 2021 premiere of Hyundai’s petrol-powered CASPER established a legacy that the INSTER’s design continues. The new model’s longer wheelbase and body provide a more spacious interior and a strong road presence. The INSTER, which falls somewhere between traditional A-segment city cars and larger B-segment models, combines agility with increased utility and versatility.

“We’ve taken the small SUV image to a bold new place for the global audience with INSTER,” stated Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. With a distinct appearance and an interior that makes the most of its capabilities in exciting, customer-focused ways, it punches much beyond its weight. We are rethinking what it means to operate a subcompact electric vehicle with Inster.

Features on the Outside and Inside

The INSTER’s exterior features include a distinctive skid plate, robust fenders, flush surfaces, high-tech bumpers, and a small SUV design. Its aesthetic appeal is enhanced with pixel-graphic turn signals, LED daytime running lights, and a two-tone exterior with a contrasting black roof. There are three styles of wheels available: 15-inch steel-covered, 15-inch alloy, and 17-inch alloy.

The 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, the 10.25-inch digital cluster, and the wireless charging port are all included with the INSTER. Inside, the pixel concept is continued through with adjustable upper door trim garnishes and cutting-edge graphics on the steering wheel boss.

The inside of the INSTER is all about adaptability. All the seats, including the driver’s seat, may be folded flat, and the front row provides walk-through access. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a front bench seat are available as options. For added versatility, the second-row seats may move and recline and are split 50/50.

Eco-Friendly Resources

With the INSTER, Hyundai used sustainable materials. Black high-gloss recycled paint is used on the exterior, and recycled PET from bottles and bio-polypropylene from sugarcane are used inside.

Performance and Charging Capabilities

The INSTER excels because to its rapid DC charging capability and great range. It includes a 42 kWh battery as standard, with a Long-Range 49 kWh battery available as an option. Both variants are driven by a single motor, which produces 97 PS in the standard form and 115 PS in the Long-Range model, with a torque of 147 Nm. The Long-Range model has a projected range of 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge, 15-inch wheels, and an estimated energy usage of 15.3 kWh/100 km.

The INSTER can charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes utilizing a 120 kW DC High-Power charging station. It also comes with an 11 kW on-board charger as standard, with the option of a battery heating system or a high-efficiency heat pump. External and internal Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities enables bidirectional charging of external devices.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

INSTER is loaded with cutting-edge technology, featuring a variety of enhanced safety and driver aid systems. These include Surround View Monitor (SVM), Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear (PCA-R), Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5 (FCA 1.5), and many more. It also includes 64-color LED ambient lighting, a digital cluster, a one-touch sunroof, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch (NFC) functionality.

Global Launch and Future Variants.

The INSTER will make its premiere in Korea this summer, with subsequent launches in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. Hyundai will also release an additional variation, the INSTER CROSS, with a more durable, outdoor-oriented design. More information on this version will be revealed at a later date.

INSTER Specifications at a Glance

Dimensions (mm): Length: 3,825; Wheelbase: 2,580; Width: 1,610; Height: 1,575
Headroom (mm): Front: 1,028 (Sunroof: 987); Rear: 982
Legroom (mm): Front: 1,050; Rear: 885
Luggage space (VDA): 280 liters (up to 351 liters with sliding rear seats)
Battery Options: Standard: 42 kWh; Long-Range: 49 kWh
Power: Standard: 71.1 kW (97 PS); Long-Range: 84.5 kW (115 PS)
Max Speed: Standard: 140 km/h; Long-Range: 150 km/h
0-100 km/h: Standard: 11.7 s; Long-Range: 10.6 s
Projected Max Driving Range (WLTP): Exceeding 300 km (Standard Range); Target 355 km (Long-Range with 15-inch wheels)
Charging Time: 30 mins (10-80% fast charging with 120 kW DC High-Power chargers)
Exterior Colors: Atlas White, Tomboy Khaki, Bijarim Khaki Matte, Unbleached Ivory, Sienna Orange Metallic, Aero Silver Matte, Dusk Blue Matte, Abyss Black Pearl, Buttercream Yellow Pearl (some available in two-tone combinations)
Interior Colors: Black, Khaki Brown, and Newtro Beige two-tone with full cloth trim

Hyundai’s INSTER is prepared to make a huge impression in the sub-compact EV industry, boasting an unrivaled blend of style, technology, and versatility.

Source: Hyundai