[9] The development project for a Hyundai minicar started in October 1995 after the main Korean competitor Daewoo had already put in place the production of a compact car, exposing numerous concepts in various international car showrooms that would have foreshadowed the production model (which would become the Matiz designed together with Italdesign Giugiaro).

Hyundai produced a concept of a city car which was extremely compact and economical to sell not only in South Korea but also in Europe (market with high sales in the city segment seen the successes of cars such as Fiat Panda, Cinquecento, Renault Twingo and Peugeot 106) and in India.

In September 1997, Hyundai released it as the Atos, less than 3.50 meters long, characterized by a soft design but a very spacious interior thanks to the shape of the mini-van body, five doors and five seats.

At the debut the engine was a four-cylinder petrol 800 cc Epsilon that was approved according to the new restrictive emission standards entered into force in South Korea.

The European version was presented at the International Motor Show Germany in Frankfurt the same month and sales began in March 1998.

Safety devices (driver and front passenger airbags and ABS) were paid or standard only on top models.

[12] In India, the Atos Prime was adapted to local tastes and launched under the name Hyundai Santro, with production starting in October 1998.

The nose remained similar to that of the previous Atos, but the grille was changed and made available with chrome plating.

The trunk was smaller, with capacity reduced to 219 litres up to a maximum of 889 liters with the rear seats reclined.

[17] Produced at Hyundai's factory in Chennai, its primary competitor at that time was the popular Maruti Suzuki Zen.

The distinctive styling of the first generation had mixed reviews, but the car was a success primarily due to its power steering feature and price.

In the years since, the Indian version has undergone a number of upgrades in styling and technology to respond to consumer preferences.

Figures as listed for the 2000-2003, 5 door, 1.0i model with GSi trim as sold in the UK (as the Amica), with standard options.

The Atos EV can travel more than 193 km (120 mi) in stop and go city driving and can reach a top speed of 129 km/h (80 mph).