This is the Hyundai Insteroid concept, which the company says serves “to challenge conventions, create emotions and redefine what a sporty EV can be.” Based on the Inster that is in the running to win the 2025 World Car of the Year award, the concept is inspired by gaming accompanied by a healthy serving of tuner culture.
Designed by Hyundai’s European design team, the Insteroid features a massive widebody with vented wheel arches, an enormous rear wing, very large wheels as well as a prominent diffuser. There’s no shortage of scoops and inlets either, with pixel-style lighting completing the look.
The South Korean carmaker won’t reveal what sort of electric powertrain is used for the concept, although it did say that there is a Drift Mode to play with. A dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup is likely, possibly similar to what you’ll find in the Ioniq 5 N and mad RN24 concept.
Inside, you’ll find a stripped-down cockpit with bucket seats, a roll cage and a unique instrument cluster, the last of which has something called ‘Message Grid’ that emulates how in-game alerts are displayed. Another gaming-inspired feature is the ‘Beat House’ audio system that looks like a DJ spin table and provides an immersive sound experience.
Other notable elements include lightweight lattice structures and an exterior that is finished in a soft white shade, punctuated by a single bold orange highlight. The interior also showcases 3D knit fabric made from recycle yarns, and there’s a reflective race suit with prominent ‘Insteroid’ lettering.
While the Insteroid is an exercise in letting designers off the leash, reports suggest it could serve as a preview for an affordable electric hot hatch. For now, the company merely states “the sporty show car aims to spark further interest in the Inster production model already on sale in key markets.”
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