Hyundai Inster EV Likely to Launch By late 2026, Set to Compete With Punch EV and eC3

The top carmaker Hyundai is all set to add another EV to its portfolio named Inster. The company is expected to launch the battery-powered model in India by 2026. However, a concreted confirmation about the same is yet to be shared by the brand.

Before releasing the electric Inster in the country, the company has a plan to introduce Creta EV first.  It is expected to arrive in 2025. Once launched, the former will be given a green signal, which might break the cover in 2026. The model will compete against Tata’s hot-selling products Punch EV and Citroen’s eC3.

Overall Size

Talking about the size, the upcoming vehicle will be smaller as compared to Punch EV, and expected to flaunt a bigger road appearance than eC3. The report says the upcoming EV might dominate the segment with cutting-edge technology and advanced features.

Top Highlights

The Casper-based compact electric SUV (codenamed HE1i) already has been showcased recently at the Busan Auto Show in South Korea. The report says the production model will hit the market without any major changes. It will feature the same style statement, featuring round round-shaped LED headlight setup, and the placement of the Day Time Running Light (DRLs) will be right above the headlight unit.

If rumours are to be believed, the company is likely to adopt the born-electric car platform and affordable E-GMP (K) platform for the HE1i EV.  The report says the model will be produced at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur plant, while the battery will be localised as the task is likely to be given to Exide.

Battery, Power and Range

When it comes to the battery setup, the international model will be offered in two battery options. The standard version is expected to feature a 42kWh unit with a maximum power of 95 bhp. The top model will be equipped with 49kWh capacity, which will produce an overall output of 113 bhp and 147Nm of peak torque.

As far as the range is concerned, the former will offer a decent range of 300km on a single charge, while the latter will be capable of providing a robust 355km on full top-up.  The India-spec HE1i is also likely to get two battery-back options, offering different power and range.