The smallest electric Hyundai has arrived. Named Inster, it is a city car with a nice look and debuts in the heart of the A-segment. “It is not simply a re-edition of the Casper that has been on sale for some time in the Korean market: for the Inster we used a new base that would adapt to the new requirements of this model such as having a longer wheelbase to be able to install batteries in the floorpan,” says Nicola Danza, Hyundai Exterior Design Manager working in the manufacturer’s European style centre in Frankfurt.
At 3.8 metres long, 1.68 metres wide and 1.57 metres high, the Inster has a wheelbase of 2.58 metres: “This gave us an interior space that usually belongs to cars in a higher segment and a flat floor that is very comfortable for those sitting in the back. The legroom at the rear is 860 cm,” continues Danza. “Thanks to its size, distinctive design and interior planning, Inster maximises its potential in a surprising, customer-focused way. With this model we are redefining what it means to drive an ultra-compact electric car,” said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of the Hyundai Design Centre.
The Inster’s exterior design is characterised by a rugged yet compact profile and clean, uncluttered surfaces, with strong wings, a bumper with a technological design inspired by electronic circuits and a bold skid plate adding character to the front and rear. The model will also come in a Cross variant, inspired by the SUV world: “It will have a raised stance and bumper fascias to meet a slightly more rugged style that is so popular right now,” says Danza. The Inster can be chosen with two battery packs, 42 or 49 kilowatt hours and 97 or 115 horsepower engines respectively. The character of the model also stands out thanks to the LED light signature of the daytime running lights and the pixel graphics of the turn indicators, tail lights and bumpers.
Inside, the city car offers advanced technology and comfort with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, and a wireless charging cradle that is part of a compact centre console designed to create a more spacious feel. The pixel theme is also found in the design of the steering wheel to emphasise the car’s high-tech character. The interior features customisable mouldings on the top of the doors to further personalise the car. The designers have also thought of accessories that can be installed in the passenger compartment: there are even two removable tables that attach to the backs of the front seats.
