Hyundai is taking steps to make electric vehicles more exciting and appealing to driving enthusiasts with the introduction of the new Ioniq 5 N performance variant. Unlike traditional gas vehicles with gear-shifting capabilities, electric vehicles have been criticized for their lack of excitement on the road. However, Hyundai aims to bridge this gap by partnering with its “N” subbrand to create a more thrilling driving experience.
The highlight of the Ioniq 5 N is its virtual eight-speed transmission, known as the “e-shift” dual-clutch transmission. This transmission is designed to mimic the feeling of driving an internal combustion engine vehicle without the harmful emissions. It achieves this by adjusting torque output on the dual motors, providing the sensation of gear shifts. To enhance the experience further, the transmission includes jolts and artificial engine noises that make you feel like you’re racing on a track. For those who crave a more immersive driving experience, the Ioniq 5 N also offers manual control using shift paddles. The system even simulates the feeling of a cutoff if you mistime a shift, adding to the authenticity of the driving experience.
Under the hood, the Ioniq 5 N boasts impressive power. Its motors can deliver a combined maximum of 478kW, thanks to the “N Grin Boost” mode. This allows the vehicle to accelerate from zero to 62mph in approximately 3.4 seconds. In comparison, the regular Ioniq 5 AWD has a combined output of 239kW/320 horsepower and is about a second slower than the N variant. With its power output, the Ioniq 5 N even surpasses Tesla’s Model 3 Performance, which produces around 450 horsepower.
In terms of design, the Ioniq 5 N features subtle differences from the standard model. It sports a deeper front bumper with a functional mesh for improved airflow. The N badge on the grille and the sporty red soul patch in the center of the front and rear bumpers add a touch of style. The vehicle’s skirt is accented with a red pinstripe that runs around its perimeter, giving it a sporty look. Completing the overall aesthetic are the 21-inch aluminum wheels, adding a touch of sophistication to the vehicle’s appearance.
Hyundai’s initiative to make electric vehicles more appealing to driving enthusiasts is reflective of the industry’s shift toward embracing electrification. Automakers like Ford, Jeep, and Toyota are also exploring ways to replicate the manual shifting experience in their electric vehicles. In the case of Hyundai, the company has already developed other electric performance N vehicles, including the RN22e and N Vision 74 concepts. The forthcoming production Kona N EV is another example of Hyundai’s commitment to delivering exciting electric vehicles.
While the Ioniq 5 N does not adopt Hyundai’s newly announced Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA) EV platform, it does offer several improvements over the standard model. The N variant has a usable battery energy of 84kWh, compared to the standard model’s 77.4kWh. Notably, the Ioniq 5 N supports 350kW charging, allowing for faster recharging times. In contrast, Hyundai’s other vehicles do not currently charge at that speed, despite the shared platform’s capability. Additionally, the N variant’s battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes, according to Hyundai.
The Ioniq 5 N also retains all the features found in the regular version, including the vehicle-to-load (V2L) system. This system enables the car to serve as a portable power source, allowing users to power various devices and equipment from the vehicle’s battery. However, details regarding the Ioniq 5 N’s range have not been disclosed. Considering the relatively poor range of Hyundai’s sister company’s Kia EV6 GT performance trim, long road trips may not be ideal for the N variant.
In conclusion, Hyundai’s introduction of the Ioniq 5 N performance variant demonstrates the brand’s commitment to making electric vehicles more exciting and appealing to driving enthusiasts. By incorporating a virtual eight-speed transmission, powerful motors, and a stylish design, Hyundai aims to bridge the gap between electric and gas-powered vehicles. With the industry moving toward widespread electrification, automakers are actively exploring ways to replicate the traditional driving experience in electric vehicles. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N serves as a testament to the brand’s dedication to offering thrilling and sustainable driving experiences.
