Hyundai N, the performance arm of the Korean automaker, is making a multi-pronged attack on the electric racing world. At the Nürburgring 24 Hours, they’re aiming for a fourth consecutive TCR class win with their ELANTRA N TCR entries. But the real headline grabber is the unveiling of the IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Spec, designed to conquer the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC).
Dominating the Nürburgring with Proven Technology
Hyundai N returns to the grueling Nordschleife with a three-pronged attack in the TCR class. Three ELANTRA N TCR cars, piloted by international driver teams, will vie for class victory. This includes the returning #830 crew, fresh off back-to-back TCR wins in 2022 and 2023. The #831 car, managed by Bryan Herta Autosport with Hyundai Motor America backing, also returns after securing a podium finish in 2023. Completing the line-up is the #832 entry featuring TCR China stars, including the reigning champion Martin Cao.
Hyundai N’s commitment extends beyond the TCR class. They’ll also be fielding the Hyundai Driving Experience i30 Fastback N in the VT2 Front-Wheel-Drive class, looking to repeat their 2023 class victory.
IONIQ 5 N TA Spec: Electrifying Pikes Peak
The real showstopper is the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec, a specially modified version of the upcoming IONIQ 5 N electric performance SUV. Two of these cars will join two production-spec IONIQ 5 N models for an all-electric assault on Pikes Peak on June 23rd, 2024. The team has its sights set on both the Electric Production SUV/Crossover and Electric Modified SUV/Crossover records.
The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec retains the core strengths of the production car but boasts a software-tuned boost in power, particularly to the rear motor. This translates to a significant 37 horsepower (27 kW) increase. To enhance driver feedback and replace the typical Pikes Peak electric car sirens, Hyundai N has implemented a special N Active Sound+ system with modified speakers exceeding 120 decibels.
Essential modifications for the punishing Pikes Peak climb include new shock absorbers, motorsport-spec brakes, 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN 005 racing slicks, and a unique high-downforce aerodynamic package. Safety upgrades like a Recaro racing seat, a six-point safety harness, a PPIHC-spec roll cage, and an EV fire suppression system round out the package.
A Legendary Mountain Awaits
The 12.42-mile (20 km) Pikes Peak course is a brutal test of both driver and machine. With 156 turns, rapidly changing weather conditions, and high altitude that can sap power, it’s a true motorsport challenge.
Hyundai has a rich history at Pikes Peak, dating back to 1992. This year’s assault will see seasoned veterans like four-time Pikes Peak champion Robin Shute and Dani Sordo, a World Rally Championship driver for Hyundai Motorsport, piloting the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec cars. The production IONIQ 5 N models will be driven by 11-time Pikes Peak winner Paul Dallenbach and automotive media personality Ron Zaras.
Gran Turismo Collaboration Announced
Further bolstering their electric racing efforts, Hyundai N announced a collaboration with Gran Turismo, the popular sim-racing video game franchise. This isn’t the first time Hyundai N has partnered with Gran Turismo – their 2015 Hyundai N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo concept serves as a testament to that. Specific details are yet to be revealed, but the collaboration will involve various sim-racing activities, including a virtual Pikes Peak challenge. Visitors to Hyundai’s N24 booth can experience the thrill of Pikes Peak virtually with 10 Gran Turismo simulators and participate in an on-site competition.
Hyundai N’s multi-faceted approach highlights their commitment to electric performance. From dominating established tracks with proven technology to pushing the boundaries on legendary climbs, Hyundai N is electrifying the motorsport landscape, both on the real world stage and in the virtual realm of Gran Turismo.
IONIQ 5 N TA Spec technical specifications
| IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) technical specifications | ||
| PE System | Production specification IONIQ 5 N PE system including: – Motor: up to 687 PS (through software tuning) – Battery: 84.0kWh – Inverter: Silicon carbide two-stage inverter |
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| Charging system | Production specification IONIQ 5 N charging system including: – 800V, 400V multi-charging system – Maximum charging speed: 350 kW – Charge time: 10-80% in 18 minutes (under optimal conditions) |
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| Chassis | Three-way adjustable dampers Ride height and camber adjustable |
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| Exterior | eN1 body modified with PPIHC-specific aerodynamic package | |
| Wheels | 18-inch 11J forged racing wheels | |
| Tires | 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN 005 slick tires | |
| Brakes | Front | Six-piston racing calipers, racing pads |
| Rear | Four-piston racing calipers, racing pads | |
