Hyundai’s low-cost Casper Electric spotted in the US for the first time

Is Hyundai bringing its most affordable EV to the US? For the first time, Hyundai’s Casper Electric was spotted driving on US streets. Will the low-cost EV launch in the States?

After opening pre-orders for its smallest and most affordable in July, starting at just $23,000 (31.5 million won), the Casper Electric is already Hyundai’s best-selling EV in Korea.

Hyundai followed it up by launching an even cheaper Casper Electric Premium model, starting at $20,000 (27.4 million won). With subsidies, Hyundai said the new compact electric SUV is available for as little as $7,300 (10 million own).

According to Hyundai, buyers are flocking to the new EV thanks to its “ample driving range” and low starting price.

The Casper Electric is rated with up to 196 miles (315 km) driving range in Korea. In Europe, the mini electric SUV is known as the Inster EV. It starts at under $27,000 (25,000 euros) and has WLTP driving range of up to 221 miles (355 km).

Is Hyundai’s new low-cost Casper EV coming to the US?

Although the Casper EV was not expected to launch in the US, Hyundai’s low-cost EV was recently spotted driving in California.

The new image from KindelAuto shows the Casper Electric (Inster EV) on US streets for the first time.

After unveiling the new EV, Hyundai said it would first launch in Korea, followed by Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific “in due course,” but it did not mention North America.

With production kicking off at its massive new Metplant America (HMGMA), Hyundai could have an opportunity to sell the compact electric SUV as one of the most affordable EV options in the US.

Following its Q3 earnings on Thursday, Hyundai said as the new US plant begins full operations, “it will also enhance its leadership in electric vehicles in the US market.” Could we see the Casper EV launch here in the US?

Hyundai said US-build EVs will initially qualify for a partial $3,750 federal tax credit. However, after the battery portion opens, it expects models to be eligible for the full $7,500.

The updated 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, with more range, a sleek new design, and an NACS port to access Tesla’s Supercharger network, was the first to roll off the production line. Later this year, Hyundai will introduce its first three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9. It will be built alongside the IONIQ 5 in GA.

Should Hyundai bring the Casper EV to the US? Would you buy one for under $30,000? What about for around $20,000 (with incentives)? Let us know in the comments.