The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N hits the Nürburgring for its final test

Hyundai is gearing up for the world premiere of its inaugural high-performance all-electric vehicle, the IONIQ 5 N. Before it debuts, however, Hyundai is testing its first performance-electric around the Nürburgring, considered one of the most demanding racing circuits worldwide. This impressive feat serves as a testament to the car's exceptional performance in preparation for its upcoming launch next month.

Throughout its history, the Hyundai N brand has consistently relied on the rigorous Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) track to test the tech in its vehicles. According to Hyundai, achieving optimal performance from an EV needs meticulous attention to heat management, a task far more complicated than in vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICE). As such, this demands the implementation of cutting-edge software to complement and amplify each hardware upgrade, reinforcing the overall performance capabilities of the vehicle.

To achieve consistent performance, the IONIQ 5 N has received a ton of upgrades over its non-performance version. The front bumper has been modified to incorporate a larger grille, allowing more air to enter and efficiently cool the radiator. To add to the cooling package, the IONIQ 5 also gets a battery chiller on top of the previous modifications.

Furthermore, considerable attention has been devoted to refining the battery's pre-conditioning system. This system offers two distinct modes: Drag and Track. Drag mode swiftly warms or cools the battery cells, optimizing their performance for maximum acceleration and immediate straight-line speed. On the other hand, track mode focuses on extending the range of the vehicle during races, ensuring the battery remains at its peak performance while maximizing the distance the car can cover.

For a heightened level of driver engagement, the IONIQ N comes equipped with N Active Sound + and N e-Shift. The N Active Sound +  system comprises 10 speakers, with eight placed internally and two positioned externally, offering drivers a choice of three sound themes: Ignition, Evolution, and Supersonic.

The Ignition theme expertly replicates the distinct sound of Hyundai N cars' turbocharged engines, complete with the pop and bang sound effects. Meanwhile, the Evolution theme presents an N signature electronic sound, drawing inspiration from the futuristic N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo Concept and RN22e. As for the Supersonic theme, it simulates the sensation of being inside a high-performance fighter jet, perfect if you want to go full Top Gun on the track.

Working alongside the N Active Sound + system, the N e-Shift system closely mimics the behavior of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) commonly found in ICE N cars. By controlling the motor torque output and replicating the jolt experienced during gear shifts, N e-Shift creates a seamless simulation of the gearshift sensation. Hyundai says the ultimate objective is to enable drivers to transfer their refined driving techniques honed with ICE vehicles since the feel of EVs greatly differs from the petrol-powered cars drivers are used to.

On July 13, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, will be unveiled to the world at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This means fans of the IONIQ 5 N won’t have to wait much longer for a track-focused version of the EV crossover.