West Sussex/Seoul, July 13, 2023 – Hyundai Motor Company made waves today at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, England, with the world premiere of their highly anticipated IONIQ 5 N. This groundbreaking model marks the entry of Hyundai’s N brand into the high-performance, all-electric segment, promising an electrifying future for driving enthusiasts both on the road and the track.
At its release it will be the most powerful Hyundai to reach customers. The dual motor setup produces 601 horsepower and 545 pound-feet of torque, with the ability to activate N Grin Boost (a nod to Hyundai’s N Grin Shift) for an additional 40-hp to make its way to the wheels.
Hyundai says that it will reach 60-mph in 3.4-seconds and notes that top speed is limited to 161 mph.
The IONIQ 5 N showcases Hyundai’s commitment to delivering high-quality mobility alongside their driver-focused N models, building upon the brand’s notable success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) since their comeback in 2014. With multiple world championships under their belt, Hyundai has infused their N high-performance models with a winning DNA, and they continue this momentum with the electrification of their lineup.
The IONIQ 5 N, based on Hyundai’s acclaimed E-GMP platform, serves as a testament to Hyundai N’s technological prowess and positions the brand as a technology powerhouse within Hyundai Motor. By spearheading advanced technologies, the goal is to enhance the competitiveness of all Hyundai EVs. The introduction of the IONIQ 5 N marks the first step in this strategic shift, with more electric N models on the horizon.
The IONIQ 5 N leverages the Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) of the standard model while incorporating N’s motorsport-derived technologies. By harnessing N’s expertise from their electrified ‘Rolling Labs’ projects, such as the RM20e, RN22e, and N Vision 74, Hyundai maximizes the high-performance capabilities of the EV. The IONIQ 5 N epitomizes N’s three performance pillars: ‘Corner Rascal,’ ‘Racetrack Capability,’ and ‘Everyday Sportscar,’ promising an exhilarating driving experience for even the most demanding N-thusiasts.
While some may fear that the IONIQ 5 N is borrowing or building upon the success of the Kia EV6 GT, our friends over at Car and Driver, quash those concerns, noting that this N-badged EV is ground up originality. Stating that the IONIQ 5 N:
“features its own specific suspension calibrations, including bushing tolerances, three-position electronically controlled dampers, and spring tuning. Also, an aluminum two-piece lower control arm is added to the standard Ioniq 5s stamped steel unit. For a stronger structure, there’s 42 additional welding points and more structural adhesive. To improve lateral rigidity, the motor and battery mounting points have been reinforced, and subframes have been beefed up.” – David Beard, Car and Driver
Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand and Motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company, emphasized the brand’s commitment to fun driving experiences across all powertrain options, stating, “IONIQ 5 N was developed to take driving fun to a new level by utilizing the latest technologies available. Starting with IONIQ 5 N, N brand aims to deliver N’s signature fun driving experience regardless of petrol, electric, or hydrogen. To accomplish this, we’ve closely monitored the voices of our N fans in order to fine-tune our first all-electric N with the goal of electrifying the driving passion of our most demanding N-thusiasts.”
N e-shift: A simulated DCT for an EV
Hyundai N engineers have unleashed a driver-centric revolution in the all-new IONIQ 5 N, silencing the naysayers who bemoaned the lack of engagement in electric vehicles (EVs). Say goodbye to the mundane EV experience as Hyundai’s ingenious integration of N e-shift and N Active Sound + technologies delivers an electrifying fusion of precise control and exhilarating acoustics.
By simulating the pulse-pounding feel of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) from their scorching internal combustion engine (ICE) N models, the N e-shift in the IONIQ 5 N injects a much-needed dose of excitement into the world of electric performance. Seamlessly controlling motor torque output, this cutting-edge system ensures each gearshift is met with a thrilling jolt, bridging the gap between the scorching ICE realm and the electric domain with astonishing precision.
Going Supersonic
But that’s not all. Hyundai’s N Active Sound+ takes the IONIQ 5 N’s sonic experience to the next level. Bolstering the driving pleasure with a symphony of thrilling sounds, this system boasts a 10-speaker setup, two of which are external, offering a trio of irresistible sound themes. Feel the roar of the ‘Ignition’ theme as it flawlessly replicates the soul-stirring sound of N’s ferocious 2.0T engines. Or let the ‘Evolution’ theme engulf your senses with a signature high-performance symphony inspired by the awe-inspiring RN22e. And for the most audacious thrill-seekers, the ‘Supersonic’ theme, influenced by the adrenaline-fueled world of twin-engine fighter jets, dynamically adjusts its volume during cornering, delivering an otherworldly experience.
As Hyundai paves the way for a future of high-performance electric vehicles, the unveiling of the IONIQ 5 N solidifies their position as a pioneering force in the industry. With its cutting-edge technology, thrilling performance, and unmistakable N brand DNA, the IONIQ 5 N ushers in a new era of electrified driving and sets a new benchmark for what’s possible in the realm of high performance electric vehicles.
