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This year, the domestic automotive market faces a crisis fueled by fears of electric vehicle (EV) battery fires, a phenomenon dubbed "EV phobia" stemming from the "electric vehicle chasm." In response, Hyundai and Kia are making a bold push to popularize electric vehicles with models like the "Casper Electric" and "EV3." Among these, the Hyundai Casper Electric is projected to surpass 10,000 units in cumulative sales this year.
According to Hyundai Motor Group, the Casper Electric, launched in August this year, recorded approximately 7,431 units sold in just four months as of last month. The Casper Electric features LG Energy Solution's nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery, which allows it to travel up to 196 miles on a single charge. With tax benefits, customers can purchase it for around 15,000 USD, making it an attractive model for electric vehicle adoption.
As a result, the monthly sales for the Casper Electric totaled 1,439 units in August, 2,075 in September, 2,186 in October, and 1,731 in November. With year-end discounts expected to boost sales, the model is likely to achieve 10,000 units sold within just five months of its launch.
Positioned as Hyundai's entry-level electric vehicle, the Casper Electric boasts exceptional value and appeal, surpassing expectations for its class. Notably, it offers more interior space compared to traditional internal combustion engine models. After extensive efforts to maximize space utilization, Hyundai successfully developed the Casper Electric.
The development team meticulously analyzed the placement of components in millimeters to optimize space. The initial target driving range was set at over 186 miles, necessitating a larger body size to accommodate a feasible battery. This decision ultimately resonated well with consumers.
Consequently, the Casper Electric features a wheelbase that is 7.1 inches longer and a length that is 9 inches longer than the internal combustion engine model, allowing it to achieve a maximum driving range of 196 miles on a single charge. However, by increasing its size, the Casper Electric has moved beyond the compact car category, forfeiting the associated benefits, yet it compensates with substantial electric vehicle advantages and spacious interior, showcasing its unique market competitiveness.
Additionally, the Casper Electric has optimized the second-row space by increasing the wheelbase, allowing for enhanced legroom. Similar to the existing model, it features sliding and reclining seats, as well as a full flat function for all seats, maximizing the usability of the second row. Various seat variations further enhance its versatility for work, daily use, and leisure activities.
In fact, when riding in the second row of the Casper Electric, passengers will notice significantly increased legroom. To enhance comfort, the design team considered door size and beltline height, moving the hip point 3.1 inches rearward. This adjustment increased legroom by 0.9 inches, creating a more spacious environment between the knees and the seat. Additionally, relocating the door opening to the rear improved the ease of getting in and out of the second row seats.
Moreover, with the increased length, the vertical length of the cargo space has also grown by 3.9 inches, resulting in a cargo capacity of 280 liters—47 liters more than the internal combustion engine model. When the second-row seats are pushed forward, the cargo capacity reaches up to 351 liters. This design maximizes the efficient use of passenger and cargo space, reflecting the analysis of the expanded wheelbase.
Consequently, with its relatively affordable price and the excitement of a new model, the Hyundai Casper Electric, alongside the Kia EV3, has secured the top two spots in small SUV electric vehicle sales. Hyundai plans to expand the sales of the Casper Electric to regions such as Europe and Japan, which is expected to invigorate the domestic electric vehicle market by 2025.
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