At the end of June, I flew to Seoul for my first-ever experience driving a prototype of the Inster Electric (also known as the Casper Electric). After arriving in Seoul, I took a bus to Hyundai Motor’s R&D Center in Namyang—a paradise for someone like me, as it was full of prototypes moving around. Hyundai is placing a new bet on the global EV market, a move I consider very important, especially since we are accustomed to fancy, large, and expensive electric cars. Many people, however, are craving a more affordable, practical electric vehicle for daily use. Will the Inster meet these customer needs?. Let’s find out.
A First Look: Adorable and Compact Design
The Inster Electric immediately stands out with its charming design, if you already know the Casper, you know what I meant. The car features harmless-looking circular headlights accented by pixel-style eyebrows, giving it a playful and approachable appearance. Its compact, boxy exterior enhances its cuteness, making it an attractive option for urban drivers seeking both style and functionality.
Measuring 3,825 millimeters in length, 1,610 mm in width, and 1,575 mm in height, the Inster Electric boasts a wheelbase of 2,580 mm, which is 180 mm longer than its internal combustion engine counterpart. This increase in wheelbase translates to an additional 80 mm of legroom in the rear, offering a pleasantly surprising amount of space for a vehicle of its size while also allows to have a larger battery pack. While it remains a tighter fit compared to larger subcompact SUVs, it feels significantly more spacious than previous models.
Driving Experience: Efficient and Versatile
The Inster Electric offers a maximum driving range of up to 355 kilometers per charge, making it a reliable choice for both city commuting and longer drives. During the test drive, the vehicle started with a 81% charge, indicating a remaining range of 275 km. After covering around 80 km at an electricity efficiency of 13,5 kWh, the battery still had 68% charge left, with 215 km of range remaining.
Powered by LG Energy Solution’s 49 kWh nickel, cobalt, and manganese (NCM) battery, the Inster Electric can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using a 120 kW-class charger. This fast-charging capability ensures that drivers can quickly recharge and get back on the road. Depending on the market, the Inster will be also available with a 42 kWh battery pack.
While the Inster Electric isn’t the most powerful EV on the market, its performance is satisfactory for daily driving. In sports mode, acceleration becomes noticeably quicker and more responsive, catering to those who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. The vehicle also offers four levels of regenerative braking, with the second level providing a particularly smooth ride.
Safety and Technology: Advanced Features in a Compact Package
One of the standout features of the Inster Electric is Hyundai’s Pedal Misapplication Safety Assist (PMSA) technology. This system can take control of the vehicle and immediately stop it when the driver accidentally floors the acceleration pedal from a standstill if there’s an obstacle within one meter of the front or rear of the car.
During our test, the PMSA system wasn’t available but Hyundai explained that “with the driver flooring the acceleration pedal towards an obstacle placed within one meter of the vehicle, the Inster Electric responded instantly, halting the vehicle and displaying a warning on the dashboard, thus preventing a potential collision”. This feature significantly enhances the safety of the vehicle, especially in urban environments where sudden stops might be necessary.
Pricing and Global Launch
Starting at 31.49 million won (approximately $23,569 or 21,131 euros), the Inster Electric offers a compelling mix of style, efficiency, and advanced safety features at a reasonable price point. Hyundai plans to launch the Inster Electric in global markets, including Europe and Japan, next year, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Conclusion: A Compact EV with Big Potential
The Inster Electric may be small in size, but it packs a punch with its spacious interior, efficient performance, and advanced safety features. It’s an excellent choice for urban drivers looking for a stylish, reliable, and safe electric vehicle. As Hyundai continues to expand its global reach, the Inster Electric is poised to become a popular option despite the current momentum of the electric vehicle market.
