Hyundai Motor Company has taken automotive design to a new level with the debut of INSTEROID, a futuristic, gaming-inspired concept car based on the Hyundai INSTER EV. Unveiled at a private ‘Night Garage Party’ in Seoul’s Seongsu neighborhood at Peaches D8NE (Dowon), INSTEROID will make its public debut at the Seoul Mobility Show where it will be on display for the public from April 3 to April 13.
Blending sporty aesthetics with gaming influences, INSTEROID is designed to excite a new generation of drivers. The concept car builds on the success of the INSTER EV, a compact urban electric SUV that quickly became a global favorite and a top-three finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year award.
A bold take on sporty EV design
Designed by Hyundai’s European design team, the INSTEROID concept features an extended and widened body, similar to touring cars of previous decades. It completes the look with track-ready wheels, a prominent rear wing spoiler, diffuser, and aerodynamic air vents—all aimed at improving performance.
The white and orange colour scheme really pops, like something out of Rocket League, with unique pixel-style design details for the current crop of Hyundai EVs. It also stands out from the Hyundai N division colour scheme, giving the INSTEROID a more distinct visual presence.
The interior is mostly racecar as well and it includes bucket seats, a roll cage, and a simplified console with digital readouts and a handful of controls on the steering wheel. Hyundai has incorporated a Drift Mode to enhance driving dynamics.
The only thing that’s not racecar about the INSTEROID is the Beat House sound system in the back, the and Message Grid, allowing drivers to personalise their experience. The Boost icon, embedded in the design, represents multiple user personas.
Hyundai INSTEROID also integrates sustainable materials, such as 3D knit fabric made from recycled yarns in a single-piece, precision-fit process.
Gaming and automotive integration
Hyundai has developed a time-attack-style racing game where players collect virtual ‘steroid’ items to upgrade the INSTER into INSTEROID. This game will be accessible in April without requiring an app download.
Additionally, the INSTEROID Kart will be introduced in ‘KartRider Rush+’, an online racing game. This aligns with Hyundai’s ongoing efforts to engage younger audiences through gaming collaborations, including Roblox and ZEPETO. Other known collaborations in video games include the Hyundai Vision 76 concept, added to Forza Horizon 5.
Hyundai’s EV expansion and market outlook
INSTEROID’s debut coincides with Hyundai’s plan to expand the INSTER EV’s availability beyond Korea and Europe. By 2025, Hyundai aims to introduce the INSTER to markets in the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Central and South America.
With INSTEROID, Hyundai intends to generate further interest in the INSTER lineup and reinforce its position in the electric vehicle segment. The concept car will also be featured at key automotive events in Korea and Europe.
For more details, visitors can see INSTEROID at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 3 to April 13.
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