Hyundai Motor Company has once again redefined the boundaries of automotive design with the unveiling of its radical new concept car, INSTEROID, in Seoul, Korea. A fusion of gaming culture, extreme customization, and cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, INSTEROID is set to captivate a new generation of drivers looking for more than just a ride – but an experience.
A Concept Born to Thrill
Based on the globally successful Hyundai INSTER, an electric sub-compact urban SUV that took the automotive world by storm last year, INSTEROID cranks up the intensity with a pumped-up, steroid-infused transformation. The original INSTER, already a top-three finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year, provided a solid foundation for this bold reimagination.
Designed in secrecy by Hyundai Motor’s European design team, INSTEROID is more than just a car—it’s a statement. The name itself is a clever blend of “INSTER” and “STEROID”, reflecting its muscular build and high-energy presence. Unlike traditional EVs, this concept car dares to challenge conventions, elicit emotions, and redefine what a sporty electric vehicle can be.
Gamified Design Meets Next-Level Performance
With a design inspired by the adrenaline rush of gaming, INSTEROID boasts an extended and widened body, track-optimized wheels, a prominent wing spoiler, diffuser, and aerodynamic wheel arch air vents. These features aren’t just for show—they’re engineered for peak performance and an electrifying driving experience.
Inside, the cockpit takes minimalism to the max, featuring bucket seats, a roll cage, and a race-inspired instrument cluster. This stripped-down, high-performance layout embodies the spirit of DIY car culture with the motto: “Build it, play it, break it, repeat.”
INSTEROID isn’t just about speed—it’s about immersion. A built-in Beat House sound system and an interactive Message Grid allow drivers to customize their experience, while its unique Boost icon represents multiple personas, deepening the emotional connection between driver and machine. And if that’s not enough, its Drift Mode ensures that every turn is an opportunity for controlled chaos and exhilarating fun.
Sustainability With Style
Hyundai Motor’s commitment to sustainability is embedded in INSTEROID’s design. The interior features 3D knit fabric crafted from recycled yarns, using an advanced made-to-measure process. This innovative approach reflects Hyundai’s ongoing mission to combine performance with eco-conscious engineering.
The Road to the Seoul Mobility Show
INSTEROID made its grand debut at an exclusive event in Seoul’s vibrant Peaches D8NE(Dowon) cultural space, where media and content creators got a first-hand look at this futuristic marvel. The launch culminated in an electrifying ‘Night Garage Party’, setting the stage for its official showcase at the Seoul Mobility Show.
As part of its interactive engagement, Hyundai has also introduced a new game where players can evolve their INSTER into an INSTEROID by collecting ‘steroid’ power-ups in a time attack-style challenge. The game will be publicly available in April, with no app downloads required. Hyundai also revealed the INSTEROID Kart, soon to be unleashed in Kartrider Rush+.
INSTEROID: The Future of Electric Thrills
INSTEROID isn’t just a showpiece—it’s a vision of the future, where driving is as engaging and dynamic as a video game. It serves as a halo model for the INSTER lineup, ensuring its presence will be felt at major auto events across Korea and Europe. With Hyundai’s expanding global reach, the INSTER lineup is set to hit select markets in the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Central and South America in 2025.
With INSTEROID, Hyundai is proving that electric cars don’t have to be silent, serious, or predictable—they can be bold, expressive, and ridiculously fun. Buckle up, because the future of EVs is about to get a whole lot wilder!
