We reported earlier that Hyundai is preparing an entry-level electric vehicle, which will be based on the Casper micro SUV. In fact, the Casper electric has been caught testing in Europe. The report claims that the micro SUV will have a longer wheelbase for the European market. The longer wheelbase will allow Hyundai to create more legroom space for the rear occupants. Moreover, the EV will have a larger battery pack compared to the Korean-spec model which is likely to get a 35.2kWh battery.
The electric version of the Casper is expected to be launched sometime in the second quarter of 2024, while production is likely to be started in early next year. The Casper electric is based on the K1 platform, which also underpins the Grand i10, Exter and the Casper ICE.
Gwangju Global Motors (GGM) will again lead the charge of production. The spotted model was fully covered with thick cloth; however, it is visible that the small SUV gets the triangular grille pattern & the round headlamps. The small SUV is expected to receive few driver assistance system. The cabin is also expected to receive some changes & updates.
The electric SUV is expected to be positioned against Chevrolet’s Bolt EV that is dominating the Korean small EV market. The Chevrolet Bolt EV is claimed to offer a driving range of 400km on a single charge, and the upcoming Casper electric is expected to offer similar driving range.
Hyundai is also reportedly working on a new Grand i10 Nios sized electric model, which will mainly target the European market. The Korean automaker has already launched the Exter micro SUV based on the Grand i10 Nios platform in India. We expect that Hyundai could also launch the electrified version of the Exter micro SUV in our market in near future.
