Hyundai is in the final stages of testing its upcoming Ioniq 5 N, the first all-electric model to be released under the N performance sub-brand. The vehicle is set to make its debut at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 13. The automaker recently announced that the vehicle’s testing phase has taken place at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, a renowned racetrack in Germany.
One of the key areas of focus for the engineers during testing has been heat management. To ensure optimal performance, the Ioniq 5 N will feature robust cooling hardware, including a model-specific radiator and motor-oil cooler, along with a battery chiller. Additionally, the vehicle will come with battery preconditioning software, which includes two modes: “Drag” mode for extracting maximum power over a short sprint and “Track” mode for keeping the battery cool over a series of laps.
In terms of energy usage, the Ioniq 5 N will allow drivers to adjust their settings through the N Race feature. The default mode, called “Sprint,” provides maximum power, while “Endurance” mode is designed to maximize range for longer track sessions. This mode limits sudden power spikes to prevent heat build-up in the battery.
The regenerative braking system of the Ioniq 5 N has also been revamped, boasting an industry-leading figure of up to 0.6 g of deceleration. Regeneration occurs even when the ABS is engaged, at a rate of up to 0.2 g. Additionally, Hyundai promises upgrades to the hydraulic brakes, which will now feature larger 15.7-inch rotors.
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To enhance driver engagement, Hyundai has introduced a feature called N e-Shift. This feature simulates gear shifts using motor torque, allowing drivers to apply their skills honed in internal-combustion cars to electric driving.
Like other sporty electric vehicles, the Ioniq 5 N will also bring its own unique soundtrack to the table in order to make up for the lack of engine noise. Eight internal speakers and two external speakers will play a selection of sounds, including simulations of the 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine used in gasoline Hyundai N models, as well as sounds from the N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo and RN22e concepts, and even fighter jet noises.
Furthermore, the Ioniq 5 N will be the first Hyundai N model to feature all-wheel drive, adding to its performance capabilities. While the regular Ioniq 5 offers up to 320 horsepower, Hyundai has not yet revealed the power figures for the Ioniq 5 N. However, considering that the Kia EV6 GT, which shares the same E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 5, produces 576 horsepower, there is significant potential for a power increase in the N model.
Although Hyundai has not confirmed whether the Ioniq 5 N will be available in the U.S., the timing of its unveiling suggests that if it does make its way across the Atlantic, it would likely be for the 2024 model year.
Overall, Hyundai’s upcoming Ioniq 5 N is set to impress with its advanced heat management system, improved regenerative braking, engaging driving features like N e-Shift, and a unique audio experience. The vehicle’s debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed will mark an exciting milestone for Hyundai’s N performance sub-brand and the growing market for electric performance cars.
