In 2024, we can expect the introduction of affordable electric cars to the market. The Citroen e-C3 is already available for order, and we can anticipate the arrival of electric vehicles from other Stellantis brands as well as the electric Renault 5. Additionally, Hyundai is also planning to launch a budget-friendly model, the electric Hyundai Casper, by the end of 2024.
The Casper is currently available in Korea with a one-liter gasoline engine, and an electric variant is in the works. Measuring at 3.60 meters in length, the car is comparable to a VW Up, but stands taller at 1.58 meters. Speculations about an electric version for Europe have already surfaced, and to add more intrigue, a prototype was even captured in a photograph, showcasing its charging cable plugged into a station.
Hyundai has now officially confirmed the reports, as stated in the French magazine Auto Moto. During a press conference, Lionel French Keogh, the head of Hyundai France, announced that the subcompact SUV is set to arrive in Europe by the end of 2024. Unlike the Korean version, this car will be exclusively electric.
Hyundai Casper (2022)
The upcoming car is anticipated to offer greater versatility compared to the Dacia Spring, which provides a range of up to 230 km and up to 48 kW in the Extreme model. Priced at approximately 20,000 euros, the Casper will compete with the 20,000 euro variant of the Citroen e-C3, slated for release in 2025. The Citroen e-C3 is expected to feature 87 kW power and a range of approximately 200 km.
There are rumors that the electric Casper might adopt the electric drive system from the Kia Ray EV, which shares the same platform. The recently updated variant of the compact Kia offers a power output of 64 kW and is equipped with a 35 kWh battery. This would provide more power compared to the Dacia, albeit with a slightly shorter range of 210 km. Additionally, according to KoreanCarBlog, the European version of the Casper is expected to feature a longer wheelbase, allowing for a larger battery capacity.
The introduction of the electric Casper by Hyundai could potentially pave the way for more affordable electric models. This is highly desirable considering that the current lowest-priced electric Hyundai is priced at nearly 42,000 euros.
Sources: Auto Moto, Autocar, KoreanCarBlog
