Hyundai has introduced its lowest-priced electric vehicle, the Inster EV, in Japan, making waves in the affordable EV segment. Starting at ¥2,849,000 (approximately $18,000), the Inster undercuts rivals like BYD’s Dolphin, which starts at ¥3.63 million ($24,500), positioning it as the most cost-effective EV in its class.
The Inster, Hyundai’s fourth EV in Japan, follows the Ioniq 5, Kona Electric, and Nexo FCEV. Unveiled at Korea’s Busan Mobility Show last summer, the vehicle is already available in Europe and Korea, where it’s marketed as the Casper Electric. With a compact design measuring 3,830 mm in length, the Inster is slightly smaller than BYD’s Dolphin and targets urban EV buyers.
Japanese buyers can select from three trims priced between ¥2,849,000 ($18,000) and ¥3,575,000 ($22,700), with battery options of 42 kWh or 49 kWh. The 49 kWh version offers a range of up to 195 miles (315 km) in Korea and 221 miles (355 km) under Europe’s WLTP standards.
The Inster faces competition from Japan’s top-selling EV, the Nissan Sakura, priced at ¥2.6 million ($16,500), and BYD’s Dolphin, a strong contender since its launch. Hyundai’s competitive pricing and growing portfolio aim to expand its market share, having sold just over 600 vehicles in Japan last year compared to BYD’s 2,200.
With its affordability and features, the Inster EV could play a significant role in Hyundai’s efforts to boost sales in the Japanese market.
