A pair of Hyundai Casper EV prototypes have been spotted in Australia, potentially signalling a local market introduction in the not-too-distant future.
The pair were wrapped in disorienting camouflage but it’s clear to see these are based on the overseas Casper, sold in South Korea. As evidenced by the ‘EV’ blue triangle on the number plates, these feature an electrified powertrain.
From the distant-rear shot it’s pretty easy to see the battery pack hanging low and flat under the vehicle, basically confirming them as fully electric models. So far Hyundai has only offered the Casper with petrol power overseas.
According to reports, the new electric model is being developed to coincide with plans to launch the Casper in more markets around the world. It’s understood the electric model could come in to compete with the very cheapest of EVs sold in Australia, and it would obviously enter as Hyundai’s smallest model. If confirmed for Australia, that is.
We reached out to the local arm to ask what these vehicles were doing in Australia. The (standard) response they provided was that they are ‘global hot weather testing in Australia’. This basically means engineers are merely using Australia’s hot climate as part of the overall development, and that it doesn’t necessarily confirm local showroom plans.
But a quick search on the Australia Intellectual Property rights database shows Hyundai has trademarked the ‘Casper’ name. However, the trademark is registered under class 9, which is not specifically for automobiles. This, again, isn’t absolute confirmation but it is as close as it gets when paired with this sighting.
In South Korea the Casper has been available since 2021, and offered with either a 56kW 1.0-litre petrol or a turbo three-cylinder generating 74kW. Both use a four-speed automatic. It’s based on Hyundai-Kia’s K1 platform and shares some components with the Kia Picanto (which is sold in Australia).
It’s understood the upcoming electric model will offer a range of around 200-300km and is set to ride on a stretched version of the platform. Particularly, the wheelbase could be extended by around 250mm, according to an Automotive News report. This would help open up passenger space for other markets.
The electric Casper is set to launch overseas later this year and if it heads to Australia, some time before the second half of 2025. Prices are expected to start from around $40,000, cementing it as one of the cheapest EVs on sale.
