Hyundai Motor, South Korea’s largest automaker, has commenced preorders for its new Casper Electric mini SUV in South Korea. The electric vehicle (EV), which will be marketed under the name Inster in international markets, is set to launch in South Korea this summer, followed by releases in Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia Pacific.
The Casper Electric, officially unveiled at the Busan International Mobility Show last month, includes a long-range “Inspiration” variant. Priced at $22,800 (31.5 million won) before rebates, Hyundai expects the cost to drop to under $14,500 (20 million won) with incentives. Full-scale production will begin in Gwangju, South Korea, later this month, with an initial production target of 21,400 units by the end of the year.
Gwangju Global Motors (GGM), a Hyundai Motor contract manufacturer based in Gwangju, approximately 270 km southwest of Seoul, announced that it will begin full-scale production of the Casper Electric on July 15.
This year’s target output is 21,400 units, up 23% from the initial goal of 17,400 units. GGM has been conducting trial production since February and has already manufactured around 300 units.
The Casper Electric revealed at the 2024 Busan International Motor Show, is an updated electric version of the gas-powered Casper introduced in 2021. The Inspiration variant features a 49kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese battery, offering a driving range of up to 315 kilometers on a single charge. It also supports fast charging, reaching 80% from 10% in just 30 minutes, and includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities for powering external devices.
In addition to the Inspiration variant, the Casper Electric will be available in base and off-road style variants, with preorders for these models opening sequentially.
A Hyundai official stated, “To truly popularize electric vehicles, we have prepared the Casper Electric with unrivaled product competitiveness and reasonable pricing.” The spokesperson further added, “Casper Electric will set a new standard and be the most attractive choice for many customers considering purchasing an electric vehicle.” The first trim available for preorder is the “Inspiration,” with premium and off-road models to follow.
The Casper Electric boasts more second-row and trunk space than its gas-powered predecessor. Its interior is equipped with dual 10.25-inch infotainment and driver display screens, a steering wheel with interactive pixel lights, and ambient lighting.
Also Read:
- Hanwha and KT Partner to Advance Smart Mining Solutions
- AI and 6G: Singtel and SK Telecom Collaborate to Shape the Future of Telecommunications
- EV Battery Maker SK On Declares ‘Emergency Management: FT
- KT Corp. Launches Upgraded Genie TV Tab 3 with Enhanced Features
- Hanwha Systems to Launch Five Hyperspectral Satellites by 2028
