Amit Saraswat 
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was recently showcased to the North American media at a pre-show event for AutoMobility LA. Prospective owners will be able to order the Ioniq 5 N from MarcHyundai claims that the Ioniq 5 elevates the experience of the three N performance pillars — ‘Corner Rascal,’ ‘Racetrack Capability’ and ‘Everyday Sportscar’.
Starting with the first pillar, the Ioniq 5 N features a dual-motor AWD drivetrain with rally-inspired handling. Changes like 42 additional welding points, reinforced mountings for battery and motors and enhanced front and rear subframes ensure great dynamics. Enhancing the dynamics further is the new electric steering system that runs a quicker steering ratio and better torque feedback logic.
Since this is the first all-electric N model, Hyundai has packed the Ioniq 5 N with a whole suite of N-specific driving aids and features, each of which claims to elevate the driving experience and widen the grin on your face — yes, there is an N Grin Boost mode as well. The N Grin Boost mode bumps the power up to 641PS for 10 seconds, offering better acceleration off the line.
Moving on to the second pillar, Hyundai has enhanced the powertrain and cooling systems for track use. The Ioniq 5 N uses a two-stage inverter and a new 84kWh battery pack, offering better energy efficiency. The driver can pre-condition the battery, choosing between ‘Drag’ mode and ‘Track’ mode. The former gives a quick burst of performance for quick acceleration while the latter ensures consistent performance on the track for lasting entertainment.
Hyundai has also added an N-tuned braking system to the Ioniq 5 N, which represents Hyundai’s most powerful braking system to date. Its front rotors measure 15.75 inches in diameter and run on 4-piston monobloc callipers. Hyundai has also recalibrated its regenerative braking to offer a better primary source of braking, reducing the load on mechanical brakes over extended track use. Dedicated air ducts and optimised materials ensure optimal cooling for the braking system.
Lastly, Hyundai has added a few quirks to the Ioniq 5 N, befitting the everyday sports car pillar. The Ioniq 5 N offers N e-shift, which is Hyundai’s way of mimicking an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The N e-shift promises to deliver better feedback and interactive driving feel on the roads. The system varies the power output from the electric motors, behaving like a typical automatic transmission.
