Hyundai's $18,000 Inster EV Challenges Japan's Electric Vehicle Market

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Hyundai's newest EV hits Japan at $18,000, making waves as buyers notice its lower price against rivals.

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Known as Casper Electric back home, this small EV packs 195-mile range from its 49 kWh battery, stretching to 221 miles for European roads.

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Japanese buyers pick between 42 kWh or 49 kWh batteries across three flavors - Casual, Voyage, and Lounge trims.

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At 3,830mm length, this compact ride sneaks through city streets easier than BYD Dolphin's 4,290mm frame.

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Hyundai steps up its game after selling 600 cars last year while BYD moved 2,200 units with their Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal models.

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Fresh blood joins Hyundai's Japanese stable alongside IONIQ 5, Kona Electric, and Nexo FCEV since 2022.

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Entry Casual trim costs $18,000, mid-range Voyage hits $21,300, while top-shelf Lounge reaches $24,500.

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BYD's Dolphin starts at $24,500, setting up an electric showdown in Japan's growing EV market.

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Nissan's home turf champion Sakura leads the pack at $16,500, keeping Japanese EVs competitive.

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