The attempt to identify its identity is meaningless. It is a game character in itself.

Hyundai Motor unveiled the innovative design concept car 'INSTEROID' (hereafter INSTERROID) that transcends the limits of imagination on March 31 at 'Peaches Dowon' in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. 'INSTERROID' is a name created by synthesizing 'INSTER', the European export name of Casper, with 'STEROID'. Although 'STEROID' can refer to specific components of pharmaceuticals, it was borrowed with the meaning of 'to invigorate'.

INSTERROID was created by adding innovative design inspired by games to the small electric SUV 'INSTER' (domestic name Casper Electric), which is set to lead Hyundai's EV turnaround. It is a work of the Hyundai European Design Center. As the name INSTERROID suggests, it emphasizes sporty and dynamic energy.

It is also unique that INSTERROID is utilized as a game character. A game featuring time attacks with the INSTERROID character is in development and is set to launch on the 3rd, and it will appear as a racing game character in Nexon's KartRider.

The INSTER, which was first introduced to the European market last year, is an electric vehicle that has drawn global interest, recently becoming a finalist for the '2025 World Car of the Year (2025 World Car of the Year · WCOTY).

Through INSTERROID, Hyundai Motor plans to showcase the infinite development potential of INSTER while conveying to the public its sincere intent to lead a new mobility environment with creative and innovative challenges.

INSTERROID is the result of a project that boldly and uniquely addressed the question 'What if?'. It was born with a design that combines practical functionality and driving enjoyment with video game elements to INSTER. While maintaining INSTER's unique design sensibility, the vehicle features an expanded and wider body, 21-inch wheels, and aerodynamic elements such as a wing spoiler and wheel arch air flaps, enhancing stability and efficiency.

The interior of the vehicle aimed to provide a more immersive digital experience through immersive soundscapes and a unique cockpit. The dashboard, sound design, exterior, and various parts of the vehicle can incorporate the 'boost' character symbolizing INSTERROID, offering customization fun for drivers who value individuality and preferences.

Additionally, through the 'INSTERROID Unick Sound' developed for various situations like boarding and alighting from the vehicle, waiting, and drifting, it introduced a new concept of emotional communication between the vehicle and the driver. In terms of materials, it embodies Hyundai Motor's vision for sustainable innovation and coexistence. Recycled yarn was used with a 3D knit fabric, and a lattice structure with a grid pattern was applied to reduce weight while considering eco-friendliness.



On this day, Hyundai Motor not only presented INSTERROID for the first time but also created an opportunity for product and designer practitioners to communicate their commitment to the new design challenges they aimed to achieve through INSTERROID.

At one side of the event venue, a space was prepared to allow various games utilizing INSTERROID to be experienced, aiming to establish empathy with young customers and ensure sincere communication. Hyundai Motor unveiled a self-developed game themed around INSTERROID for the first time, and attendees can experience the INSTERROID cart created in collaboration with Nexon's 'KartRider Rush Plus' on-site.

Simon Rossby, head of the Hyundai Design Center, said, 'INSTERROID is a concept car that explores new ways to stimulate emotions and imagination, expressing pure joy.' He added, 'With its striking design and immersive sound experience, INSTERROID will allow all of us to dream and imagine a little more freely and happily.'

On this day, Hyundai Motor released a 24-second short video showing the lightness and cheerfulness of INSTERROID. INSTERROID is set to be revealed to the general public at the 'Seoul Mobility Show' starting on the 3rd and plans to present Hyundai Motor's vision of transcending boundaries in key markets of INSTER.

Since its global launch, INSTER has shown high demand, and Hyundai Motor plans to launch INSTER in some markets in the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Central, and South America this year.

[OSEN]