Hyundai has taken a bold step with its new Inster electric car, transforming it into a futuristic hot hatch with a striking design and a minimalist interior. This new model, known as the Insteroid, draws inspiration from video gaming and is a blend of the words ‘Inster’ and ‘steroid’.
The exterior of the Insteroid features a wide-hipped bodykit, box-arched wheel arches, a roof scoop, and a massive rear wing, reminiscent of Hyundai’s World Rally Championship vehicles. The aggressive styling hints at the car’s performance capabilities and sets it apart from traditional electric cars.
Inside, the Insteroid is stripped down and equipped with deep-set bucket seats, a roll cage, and a hydraulic-style handbrake, emphasizing its focus on performance. Despite its sporty interior, the car also features a ‘Beat House’ sound system with a tube-style amplifier and quirky Space Invader-style aliens placed strategically throughout the cabin.
While Hyundai has not released specific technical details for the Insteroid, it is speculated that the car could borrow the 641bhp dual-motor setup from the RN24 Concept. This powerful drivetrain allows the RN24 to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.4 seconds and achieve a range of 278 miles from its 84kWh battery.
Eduardo RamÃrez, chief designer for Hyundai Europe, describes the Insteroid as a modern interpretation of a dream car, designed to inspire and excite enthusiasts. While the Insteroid is currently a conceptual vehicle, its existence suggests that Hyundai may be considering a high-performance version of its smallest EV in the future.
Hyundai’s product planning boss Paolo Gnerro has hinted at the possibility of additional variants of the Inster in the future, as long as there is demand from customers. The company is open to exploring different iterations of the Inster, following the upcoming release of the Inster Cross variant.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Insteroid is a bold and futuristic take on the traditional electric car, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and performance. While the Insteroid may currently be a concept, it hints at a potential future direction for Hyundai’s electric vehicle lineup, catering to enthusiasts and customers seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
