According to media reports, Hyundai is set to launch a fully electric version of its Casper mini crossover in Europe this year, with a price tag likely to be below €20,000. This model will join the existing lineup of small and micro electric cars in the European market, competing with vehicles such as the Chinese-manufactured Dacia Spring, Renault's electric Twingo, and Citroen's e-C3.
This electric car will also enable Hyundai to compete with low-cost electric cars introduced by Chinese manufacturers in Europe, such as SAIC Group's MG and BYD. Other upcoming electric cars set to be launched in Europe include the Renault 5, several models under the Volkswagen Group's brands, including electric versions based on the Twingo and the fully electric Fiat Panda. The starting prices for these models will be €25,000 or lower.
According to insiders, this car is expected to be showcased in Europe in the third quarter of this year, with initial deliveries commencing by the end of the year. As reported by the Korean daily newspaper "Chosun Ilbo," production of the fully electric Casper is set to begin in July.
The Casper sold in Korea is equipped with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine, which will not be available for sale in Europe. It is based on the platform of the i10 microcar, manufactured in Turkey and exported to Europe. The fully electric version of the Casper will be exported from Hyundai's Gwangju plant in Korea, produced alongside the gasoline version. The Casper sold in Korea measures 3,595 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and 1,575 millimeters in height. Its dimensions comply with the "light vehicle" regulations for enjoying fiscal advantages.
Spy shots of the Casper undergoing testing in Sweden show that the European version of the car is 200-250 millimeters (8 to 10 inches) longer than the Korean version, better meeting the needs of European customers.
According to "Chosun Ilbo," the Casper EV will be equipped with cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, offering a range of 200 to 300 kilometers (125 to 187 miles). Currently, Hyundai's cheapest electric car in Europe is the Kona subcompact SUV, with a starting price of €36,400 in Germany.
Previously, Lionel Keogh, General Manager of Hyundai France, stated in an interview with the French magazine "Auto Moto" that the price of the Casper EV would be around €20,000, competing with the Dacia Spring and Citroen e-C3. Additionally, Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Head of Hyundai Europe, stated in 2022, "Everyone in the industry knows that the target for such vehicles is €20,000."
A Hyundai Europe spokesperson declined to comment on future development plans. According to Dataforce data, Hyundai sold 68,653 units of the i20 and 63,019 units of the i10 in Europe in 2023.
