The IONIQ 5 N eN1 aims to provide a platform for teams to develop and learn about next-generation EV motorsports.
Following the launch of its hot new IONIQ 5 N, Hyundai has since decided to give it some proper motorsports pedigree by sending it to the track. And thus is born the eN1 cup car version of this particular futuristic-looking EV, which will be competing in its own newly-introduced dedicated one-make racing series this year.
Differentiating the race car from its road-going counterpart begins with a redesigned body kit, which brings with it a massive lip splitter and prominent dive planes protruding from its front bumper. New over-fenders meanwhile barely wide 18-inch forged wheels with slick tires, while a gargantuan rear wing sits proudly at the rear of this EV.
In turning the IONIQ 5 N into its track-ready state, this EV also nets bespoke two-way adjustable dampers that can have the camber tweaked and the ride height changed. Beefier six-piston front and four-piston forged calipers have been thrown in to the mix too, while nearly 270 kg has been thrown out.
This significant weight shedding comes courtesy of Hyundai removing basically all the creature comforts from its road-going counterpart, with its stripped-out interior instead featuring an FIA-compliant roll cage, a bucket seat and not much more. The fitment of polycarbonate windows further helps to cut down the fat, as does a new lightweight FRP version of its massive clamshell bonnet.
Now surprisingly enough for a competition-ready car, this eN1 Cup car utilises the same 800 V E-GMP power electronics (PE) system and 84.0 kWh battery as the production IONIQ 5 N. This therefore sees for its motor on each axle continue to produce the same combined 641 hp, but its lighter weight should bring its century sprint time down to the sub-3.0 second mark.
Interestingly too for a serious racer, the IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car retains the NAS+ (N Active Sound) fake engine noise gimmick, with teams apparently even encouraged to develop their own unique sounds. The function enabling artificial gear changes (N e-Shift) has also been retained, as is the N Grin Boost feature that unlocks full power for 10 seconds.
Delving into the more serious safety stuff on the other hand, Hyundai has fitted the IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car is equipped with essential safety elements, such as roll cages, racing bucket seats and seat belts. Additional safety measures that include fire extinguishers exclusively for electric fires, asphyxiation fire extinguishers and a modified charge port location have also been implemented to ensure the highest level of safety in EV racing.
This new Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car will be swapping paint for the first time on April 27th during the inaugural round of the 2024 Hyundai N Festival at the Inje Speedium, where the eN1 class will have an official practice session. A total of 10 races are set for later this year.
Like the existing Avante (Elantra) N1 class, the IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car is classified for professional drivers competing in the N1 class. This new eN1 class will be operating under open regulations, so that teams can compete with various tire products without being restricted to a single manufacturer.
“We are incredibly proud to unveil the IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable racing,” said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand & Motorsport. “This unique electric racing car demonstrates our cutting-edge technology and passion for pushing the boundaries of what EVs can achieve on the racetrack.”
