Hyundai Inster: Australia’s Affordable Electric City Car Set to Launch in 2025

Exciting news for electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts: Hyundai has received the green light to introduce the Inster to the Australian market! Set to hit showrooms in early 2025, this electric city car will be available in three distinct variants, including the Standard and Long Range models, as well as a rugged ‘Cross’ variant that has yet to be unveiled.

The Inster: A New Electric City Car

Unveiled in July, the Inster is Hyundai's electric counterpart to the petrol-powered Casper city car, which has never been sold in Australia. With the increasing demand for sustainable and efficient vehicles, the Inster aims to provide a compact and environmentally friendly option for urban drivers.

Variants and Features

The approval documents reveal that the Inster will be available in:

1. Standard Range:Front-mounted electric motor producing 71kW of power and 147Nm of torque.Equipped with a 42kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery.Claimed driving range of more than 300km.Operates on a 266V platform.
2. Front-mounted electric motor producing 71kW of power and 147Nm of torque.
3. Equipped with a 42kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery.
4. Claimed driving range of more than 300km.
5. Operates on a 266V platform.
6. Long Range:Increased power output of 85kW.Larger 49kWh battery pack.Achieves a driving range of 355km, particularly when fitted with 15-inch wheels.
7. Increased power output of 85kW.
8. Larger 49kWh battery pack.
9. Achieves a driving range of 355km, particularly when fitted with 15-inch wheels.
10. Inster Cross:Expected to feature a more rugged design with chunkier bumpers and a slight suspension lift.Comes with unique wheels and trim, though it’s unclear whether it will be based on the Standard or Long Range variant.
11. Expected to feature a more rugged design with chunkier bumpers and a slight suspension lift.
12. Comes with unique wheels and trim, though it’s unclear whether it will be based on the Standard or Long Range variant.

Charging and V2L Functionality

Regardless of the variant, the Inster supports both AC charging at up to 11kW and DC fast charging at 120kW. Additionally, it features vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing users to power external devices using the vehicle’s battery.

Compact Dimensions with Big Potential

Measuring 3825mm long, 1610mm wide, and 1575mm high, the Inster is designed to be compact for city driving. Despite being smaller than the Hyundai Venue, it boasts a 2580mm wheelbase, which provides ample interior space.

Modern Technology and Comfort

While the specific equipment list for Australia has yet to be confirmed, international models are equipped with impressive features, including:

• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
• 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen
• 64-colour ambient LED lighting
• Sunroof
• Digital key (NFC) accessibility

The Inster is expected to come with standard 15-inch wheels, but Hyundai has also showcased it with 17-inch alloy wheels and LED projector headlights in some regions.

Competitive Pricing

Hyundai is targeting a starting price below €25,000 in Europe, which equates to approximately A$40,000. This pricing strategy positions the Inster as a strong contender in the Australian market, potentially arriving at around $35,000. If so, it could become one of the most affordable EVs available in Australia, directly competing with other budget-friendly options.

Conclusion

With the Inster on the horizon, Hyundai is poised to make a significant impact in the Australian electric vehicle market. Combining a compact design, impressive range, and competitive pricing, the Inster is designed to cater to urban drivers looking for an economical and environmentally friendly alternative. As we look forward to its arrival in early 2025, the Inster is shaping up to be a game-changer in the city car segment!