HYUNDAI’S NEW INSTER A-SEGMENT SUB-COMPACT EV is revolutionising its segment, offering distinctive design, superior driving range and cutting-edge technology beyond its class.
As the EV market evolves, with consumers seeking more affordable models, INSTER stands out as a sub-compact EV segment leader through its practicality, affordability and innovation.
Outstanding efficiency, range and charging capability
INSTER stands out with its impressive charging capability and versatile all-electric range (AER), providing customers with shorter charging times and the potential for longer travel distances. When charged at a DC high-power charging station that provides at least a 120kW output, it can complete a charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes.
INSTER’s standard 42 kWh battery offers a projected driving range of 327 km (on 15-inch wheels), while the 49-kWh long-range model extends this to 370 km (on 15-inch wheels) on a single charge, with estimated energy consumption of 14.9 kWh/100 km (WLTP).
Both battery options are powered by a single motor that delivers 71.1kW in the base variant and 84.5kW in the long-range version. Both models offer 147Nm of torque.
Refinement, ride and handling: a new benchmark in compact EV driving
INSTER has been designed to enhance driving enjoyment while maintaining the level of refinement and smooth driving characteristics EVs are known for. This has been achieved through a particular focus on INSTER’s ride and handling performance.
Compared with a conventional rubber bushing, Hyundai Motor’s engineers chose a more advanced hydro bushing for the INSTER’s electric motor body mount, improving ride quality and reducing vibration. Hydro bushing enhances vibration insulation by absorbing impact energy through the movement of fluid inside the system.
Compared with the CASPER model with internal combustion engine (ICE, available in Korea only), the all-electric INSTER’s body control and shock absorption capacity have been enhanced by upgrading to a high-performance shock absorber.
INSTER has also been engineered to enhance its competitiveness in terms of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to meet customer expectations for EV refinement. This has been achieved across various driving conditions, improving interior refinement.
The vehicle’s body has been enhanced through vibration analysis and optimisation of the structure’s vibration dampening material to reduce low-frequency road noise. High-frequency road noise has been reduced by measures such as the application of double seals on both the front and rear doors, thicker front door glass, optimisation of airflow around the headlamp strip and the application of a front underbody cover, also reducing drag.
High-speed driving comfort has been further enhanced through body reinforcements around the steering system mountings and optimisations to the internal steering damper. This is particularly noticeable with INSTER’s new steering wheel, which has been designed based on an analysis of steering wheel vibration characteristics.
INSTER’s power electronics system — including the motor, inverter and gear speed reducer — has also been optimised with a focus on high-frequency noise control.
Enhancements to INSTER’s sound absorption material have also contributed towards an improvement in overall refinement. The vehicle features both a speed reducer and motor sound absorption package, while the car’s integrated design also considers the inflow path of high-frequency noise into the cabin, minimising this with a specially tuned high-frequency noise inflow route. By maximising sound absorption through path analysis, the vehicle offers an improved high-frequency noise experience, ensuring a quieter and smoother ride.
Distinctive design without compromise
INSTER’s look is characterised by an extended body and wheelbase (compared with the Korea-only CASPER ICE model) and conveys a rugged road presence while delivering ample interior space. Positioned deftly between traditional A-segment sub-compact city cars and larger B-segment models, INSTER balances manoeuvrability and practicality, making it a perfect fit for the urban environment.
The car’s wheelbase is 180mm longer than the CASPER ICE variant sold in Korea, measuring 2580mm, while the body is also 230mm longer, at a total of 3825mm. INSTER is 15 mm wider than the ICE variant, at 1610 mm, while the vehicle’s height is identical, at 1575 mm.
The all-electric model’s front overhang is 35mm longer, at 710mm, while its rear overhang extends an additional 15mm, measuring 535mm in total. INSTER’s still-compact dimensions, paired with its enhanced interior space and improved luggage capacity of up to 351 litres, make it a practical choice.
Its exterior design is marked by strong SUV lines and clean surfaces, punctuated by strong fenders, a high-tech circuit board-style bumper design, and a robust skid plate.
INSTER’s unique personality comes to life with its LED daytime running light signature, pixel-graphic turn signals, and tail-lights. Customers can also opt for LED projection headlamps and a two-tone exterior with a contrasting black roof. Depending on specification, INSTER is available with 15-inch steel wheels with wheel trims, 15-inch alloy or 17-inch alloy wheels.
Interior versatility and technology to enhance everyday life
INSTER’s interior is well-equipped for everyday life, offering enhanced technology and convenience with a 10.25-inch digital cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, and a wireless charging dock. The compact centre console design maximises cabin space, creating a comfortable and efficient environment.
Its high-tech exterior image is carried through to the interior with pixel-themed graphics on the steering wheel boss. Customisable upper door trim finishers allow owners to personalise their vehicle, adding to INSTER’s character.
INSTER is designed with practicality in mind, featuring front-row seating with walk-through access and fold-flat seats — including the driver’s seat — for increased flexibility. A heated front bench seat and a heated steering wheel are available as options. The second-row seats are split 50/50 and offer slide and recline functionality. All seats fold flat for maximum versatility.
The new model is available in a range of exterior colours, including Atlas White, Tomboy Khaki, Bijarim Khaki Matte, Unbleached Ivory, and new hues including Sienna Orange Metallic, Aero Silver Matte, Dusk Blue Matte, Buttercream Yellow Pearl and Abyss Black Pearl. Some of these colours can be paired with a contrasting black roof for a two-tone look. Interior trim choices include Black, plus two-tone Khaki Brown and Newtro Beige with full cloth trim.
Sustainable materials are used for exterior and interior trim parts. The exterior features black high-gloss recycled paint, made from recycled waste tires, replacing traditional carbon black pigment. The interior utilises recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from waste plastic bottles and bio-polypropylene material extracted from sugarcane.
Advanced driver assistance and safety tech for peace of mind
INSTER offers the most comprehensive technology package in its segment. It is packed with Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technologies for safety and convenience, such as Hyundai’s Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear, Blind-spot View Monitor and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5.
It also offers Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Safety Exit Warning. Other features include Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Highway Driving Assist 1.5, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert and Rear Occupant Alert.
INSTER’s interior offers 64-color LED ambient lighting, a digital cluster, one-touch sunroof, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch accessibility. ADAS’s parking capabilities combine Parking Distance Warning Front and Rear with a Rear-View Monitor for enhanced visibility.
The EV’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality enables power supply for external devices (110V/220V), allowing bi-directional charging without the need for additional equipment. This feature means customers can charge or power devices such as electric bicycles, scooters and camping equipment, adding to the convenience of everyday life.
Pricing, on-sale date and positioning
After its launch in Korea, INSTER will be rolled out in Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific markets. Pricing and market-specific details will be announced closer to these regional launches. Produced at Gwangju Global Motors (GGM) in Korea, INSTER will complement Hyundai Motor’s EV lineup, offering unique design, impressive range, versatility and strong value.
| INSTER Specifications | |
| Dimensions (mm) | Length: 3825, Wheelbase: 2580, Width:1610, Height: 1575 |
| Head room (mm) | Front: 1028 (Sunroof: 987) / Rear: 982 |
| Leg room (mm) | Front: 1050 / Rear: 885 (811 to 958 with sliding rear seats) |
| Luggage space (VDA) | 280 litres (up to 351 litres with sliding rear seats) |
| Max tyre size | 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel options | 17-inch alloy, 15-inch alloy, 15-inch steel with wheel covers |
| Battery | Standard: 42kWh / Long-Range: 49kWh |
| Voltage | Standard: 266V / Long-Range: 310V |
| Max power | Standard: 71.1kW / Long-Range: 84.5kW |
| Max speed | Standard: 140km/h / Long-Range: 150km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | Standard: 11.7 s / Long-Range: 10.6 s |
| Projected max driving range (WLTP) | 327km (Standard with 15-inch wheels) |
| 370km (Long-Range with 15-inch wheels) | |
| Projected consumption | 14.9kWh/100 km (with 15-inch wheels) |
| AC OBC | 11kW (std) |
| AC charging time
(at OBC power) |
Standard: 4 hours (16A) |
| Long-Range: 4 hours 35 minutes (16A) | |
| 10-80% fast charging | When charged at a DC charging station that provides at least a 120 kW output, it can complete a charge from 10 to 80% in about 30 minutes |