Hyundai’s Most Affordable Electric SUV Almost Here: Teaser Out
The South Korean carmaker Hyundai has released the teaser for its upcoming budget electric car for the European automotive market. This new model has been named the Inster EV. This A-segment electric SUV appears to be based on the Hyundai Casper micro-SUV, which is already available in international markets. It is believed that the company could be bringing the Inster EV to India as well. If the company does bring it to India, it will compete directly with the Tata Punch EV.
Hyundai Inster EV Design and Platform
Hyundai has released a number of teaser images of the Inster EV. According to the company, the name has been inspired by the words “intimate” and “innovative.” It is based on the popular Hyundai Casper, which was also slated to be launched in India. However, the Exter was launched instead.
The design of the Inster EV, as can be noted from the teaser, looks very modern. It gets two massive circular LED DRLs on the lower front bumper. It also gets pixel-style 7-element LED turn indicators on top. Another major highlight at the front is its charging port. It has been placed on the front fascia, typically where we find grilles on cars.
Coming to the side profile, it can be noted that it boasts the exact same silhouette as the Casper. However, it gets four-spoke alloy wheels that add to the modern and quirky European design. It also gets chunky roof rails and thick B-pillars. Moving on to the rear, it also gets pixel-style LED taillights.
Features and Specifications
At the moment, Hyundai has not revealed many details about the interior and features that will be offered with the Inster EV. However, it has mentioned that it will “set new standards in driving range, technology, and safety features.” Specific battery and motor details are yet to be disclosed. Some reports claim that the Inster EV will offer a range of approximately 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge.
Is it coming to India?
While Hyundai has not yet confirmed the Inster EV for the Indian market, it is believed that the company will be offering this electric powertrain with the Exter micro-SUV. If the company does offer this powertrain with the Exter, it will directly compete with Tata Punch EV.
As for the pricing of the Inster EV equivalent in India, it could be priced in the same range as the Tata Punch EV. Tata Motors currently offers the Punch EV starting at Rs 10.99 lakh to 15.49 lakh. It will also compete with the Tiago EV and Citroën eC3 in India.
Hyundai India’s EV Plans
Hyundai India has ambitious plans to expand its electric vehicle portfolio in India, with an investment commitment of Rs 33,000 crore over the next decade. It has been stated by Hyundai that it aims to increase its production capacity to 1.5 million vehicles.
This includes the launch of the first localized EV based on the Creta within a year, followed by a mass-market EV offering by 2026-27. The company has recently commenced its partnership with Exide Industries. This partnership will help the brand in localizing battery cell production. It will then help in reducing costs and making EVs more affordable.
Apart from this, the company is also gearing up for the launch of the Creta EV. This SUV is expected to debut by the end of this year and will most likely feature a 45 kWh battery pack with a range of around 400-500 km.