Meet Hyundai’s gaming-inspired concept car, the INSTEROID

KUALA LUMPUR: Hyundai introduced its smallest and most affordable electric car, the Inster, last year at the Busan International Mobility Show. This tiny EV has a quirky and youthful appearance, attracting eyeballs all over the world. Building on this popularity, the automaker introduced the Inster in a new avatar.

Meet Hyundai INSTEROID, a gaming-inspired concept car of the hot-selling Inster EV.

Hyundai showcased this ‘Dream Car’ concept in Seoul yesterday; it will be displayed at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 3 to April 13, 2025.

So, what’s this Hyundai INSTEROID all about? Let’s dive deep to know.

The INSTEROID is a combination of two words - INSTER and STEROID and it aims to challenge conventions and create excitement. It showcases the automaker’s bold approach, inspired by gaming, and boasts extensive customization to captivate a new generation of drivers.

The Hyundai INSTEROID key highlights include - 

• It features sporty, gaming-inspired bits such as an extended, widened body, and track-optimized wheels.
• Adding to the advanced aerodynamics is a prominent wing spoiler, diffuser, and wheel arch air vents.
• While the exterior of the car is sprayed with a soft white shade and orange highlights, the interior has a 3D knit fabric made from recycled yarns.
• The cabin incorporates a stripped-down layout, bucket seats, and a roll cage. As for an immersive driving experience, the automaker has installed a specialized instrument cluster inside the vehicle.

• Apart from the Inster’s charismatic design, this amazing concept vehicle features an exciting Drift Mode, transforming the whole driving experience with competitive thrills and fun cruising. 
• Further, making the drive engaging is a Beat House sound system and Message Grid, enabling personalized interactions.
• The Boost icon represents multiple unique personas, aiming to create a deep emotional connection between the car and the driver.
• The Hyundai INSTEROID can also produce a unique sound signature for a multisensory experience.
• Completing the brand’s gaming-inspired vision is a reflective race suit with prominent INSTEROID badging that captures the fusion of car culture and youthful expression.

"INSTEROID is a celebration of pure fun – a journey where we explore new ways to ignite emotion and imagination in every detail," said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, in a statement.

Hyundai has not revealed any details about the INSTEROID’s technical specifications; however, considering its dramatic looks and drift mode features, we can expect something more than the standard model. The latter is powered by a 115-hp single e-motor and a 49.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack.

Now, the big question is - Will the road-ready Hyundai INSTEROID see the light of day? Well, it seems highly unlikely. 

Whether it happens or not, one thing the automaker hopes for is that the INSTEROID concept will “spark further interest” in the Inster EV, which is already on sale in key markets, including Korea and Europe.

Also read: Hyundai Staria EV spotted: All-Electric van on the way