Hyundai N brand’s first high-performance EV the Ioniq 5 N has got the thumbs up from drifter and professional race car driver Keiichi ‘DK’ Tsuchiya after he put it through its paces.
The car has been challenging EV preconceptions since its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July and will launch in Australia in Q1 2024.
“This is my first time driving an EV that can drift,” says DK.
“It is so much fun. The most surprising was the agility.
“I thought ‘Oh, they’re making playful cars.’ This has changed my impression about Hyundai Motor.”
It has an 84kWh battery, 450km (WLTP) estimated range, 260km/h top speed, can get from zero to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds (Boost), and recharges from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes (350kW charger).
The Ioniq 5 N uses Hyundai’s electrified-global modular platform (E-GMP), “Corner Rascal” (dual motor all-wheel drive and rally-inspired handling), “Racetrack Capability” and “Everyday Sportscar”.
The “N Drift Optimiser” maintains drift angles through real-time control, while the “Torque Kick Drift” function simulates a clutch kick action for immediate drift initiation.
An electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) at the rear axle enhances cornering performance, agility and control.
The Ioniq 5 N has 21-inch forged aluminium wheels with additional wheel sensors and larger, upgraded and specifically tuned suspension dampers (shock absorbers); enhanced battery cooling and “N Brake Regen”.
Its high-powered electric motors can rev up to 21,000 RPM, delivering 478kW power, while the “N Grin Boost” feature provides an incremental power boost for 10 seconds.
“N Launch Control” has three distinct traction levels.
The Ioniq 5 N introduces “Track SOC (state-of-charge)”, a system that automatically calculates battery consumption per lap.
With a few button presses, drivers can choose between ‘Sprint’ mode, which prioritises full power delivery, or ‘Endurance’ mode, which extends the range on track by limiting peak power.
The vehicle includes 400mm front discs with four-piston monobloc calipers and 360mm rear discs.
A key feature is N e-shift, which provides precise control over power delivery and simulates gearshifts.
“N Active Sound +” complements N e-shift by delivering futuristic EV sounds, along with internal combustion engine (ICE) engine and exhaust sounds.
The Ioniq 5 N retains vehicle-to-load (V2L) and is 20mm lower, 50mm wider to accommodate larger tyres, and 80mm longer.
A wing-type spoiler and rear diffuser help control airflow.
The centre console is tailored for track driving and features knee pads and shin support.
Amenities include a USB C port, wireless charging and cupholders, while N seats with reinforced bolsters provide stability during cornering and high lateral acceleration.
Sustainable materials are incorporated throughout the interior.
