While the world was pranking each other on April Fool’s Day, yesterday, Hyundai Motor Company decided to unveil a bold new concept car, the Insteroid in Seoul, Korea. Just like the name this is the all-new Hyundai’s EV, the Inster with a high dosage of steroids.
This new concept car was inspired from the game culture and extensive customisation, according to the company. With that in mind, the Insteroid transforms the Inster model into an aggressive, high-performance machine.
Just like how car customisation goes wild in games, the Insteroid has gotten that sort of treatment to end up with the way it looks. The effects of these changes can bee seen through the widened stance, track optimised wheels and the wing spoiler. Other changes include upgraded upgraded diffusers and wheel arch air vents.
Inside, the stripped-down cockpit features bucket seats, a roll cage, and a specialised instrument cluster. Hyundai claims to have made the car to the motto of “Build it, play it, break it, repeat,” letting every element of the car be adjustable. The Insteroid also boasts a unique sound signature, making its presence unmistakable on the road, according to the company.
Driving engagement goes beyond performance. Features like the integrated Beat House sound system and Message Grid allow for personalised interactions. The Insteroid also introduces Drift Mode, which is claimed to offer a balance of competitive excitement and effortless driving enjoyment.
Hyundai claims that the innovative material choices is proof of its commitment to sustainability, such as its interior crafted with 3D-knit fabric made from recycled yarns using a seamless, made-to-measure process. The exterior is finished in a soft white shade with a striking orange accent, blending aesthetics with function, while lightweight lattice structures improve performance and reduce weight.
The Insteroid made its debut at a launch event at Peaches D8NE(Dowon) in Seoul. Attendees were given the chance to experience a variety of games featuring the car, including a time attack game, where players collect ‘steroid’ items to evolve the Inster into the Insteroid. The game will be made accessible to the public sometime in April, but no specific date was mentioned. It will also be accessible via a web link, so no downloads needed
Hyundai also introduced the Insteroid Kart, which will be featured in the mobile game Kartrider Rush+. This marks another step in the company’s growing presence in gaming, following prior successful collaborations with Roblox and Zepeto.
The Hyundai Insteroid will be on display at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 3 to April 13, offering the public a chance to see this concept up close. As a halo model for the Inster lineup, it is set to appear at major automotive events in Korea and Europe to boost consumer interest in the Inster series.
(Source: Hyundai Newsroom)
