Hyundai Launches INSTER A-Segment Sub-Compact EV, Not for US

Wedoany.com Report-Nov 11, Hyundai Motor launched its new INSTER A-segment sub-compact EV. INSTER stands out with its 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 120-kW 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 71.1 kW (97 PS) in the base variant and 84.5 kW (115 PS) in the long-range version. Both models offer 147 N·m of torque.

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). This has been achieved across various driving conditions, improving interior refinement.

The vehicle’s body has been enhanced through vibration analysis and optimization 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, optimization 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 optimizations 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 optimized 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, minimizing this with a specially tuned high-frequency noise inflow route. By maximizing sound absorption through path analysis, the vehicle offers an improved high-frequency noise experience, ensuring a quieter and smoother ride.

The car’s wheelbase is 180 mm longer than the CASPER ICE variant sold in Korea, measuring 2,580 mm, while the body is also 230 mm longer, at a total of 3,825 mm. INSTER is 15 mm wider than the ICE variant, at 1,610 mm, while the vehicle’s height is identical, at 1,575 mm.

The all-electric model’s front overhang is 35 mm longer, at 710 mm, while its rear overhang extends an additional 15 mm, measuring 535 mm in total. INSTER’s still-compact dimensions, paired with its enhanced interior space and improved luggage capacity of up to 351 liters, make it a practical choice.

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.

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.