2023 Hyundai Casper Electric: Australia a chance for new EV

South Korean outlet Pulse reports that Hyundai will offer an electric Casper by 2024 with a driving range up to 400km.

The quirkily-styled crossover Hyundai Casper is based on the same platform as the i20 and Kia Picanto, and has been sold in South Korea since 2021.

In South Korea, Hyundai offers it with with a pair of inline three-cylinder engines, either a 56kW 1.0-litre naturally aspirated unit or a 74kW turbocharged option, both mated to a four-speed auto.

2022 Hyundai Casper Launch 2

Although it has Snow, Mud and Sand modes, the Casper is front-drive only.

South Korean outlet Pulse reports that Hyundai will offer an electric Casper by 2024 with a driving range up to 400km.

The electric Hyundai Casper would compete against the electric Chevrolet Bolt (not offered in Australia), which uses a single front-mounted 149kW electric motor and 66kWh battery offering 380km WLTP range.

The Bolt costs around AU$25,000 in South Korea with subsidies.

Hyundai Casper Van 02

Above: the Casper is also offered in a van-like form

In South Korea, the four-seat Casper has helped drive a resurgence in small car sales.

Wheels understands the budget-friendly, city-focused Casper is being considered for Australia – and that would likely include an electric model, should one become available.

With no official plans confirmed, and the expected EV not yet announced, Hyundai Australia has declined to comment on local market potential.

For now, the brand’s cheapest EV is the ‘Standard Range’ Kona Electric Elite, priced from $54,500.

Critically, the Casper – a smaller and more budget-focused offering than the Kona – would give Hyundai a price rival to the MG ZS EV and BYD Atto 3, although both outdo the Casper in size.

MODELWHEELBASELENGTHWIDTHHEIGHTHyundai Casper2400mm3595mm1595mm1575mmHyundai Kona2600mm4165mm1800mm1550mmMG ZS EV2585mm4314mm1809mm1611mmBYD Atto 32720mm4455mm1865mm1615mm