South Korean automaker Hyundai debuted Thursday its Ioniq 5 N high-performance sportscar at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England as it aims to compete with the popular Tesla Model S Plaid.
Hyundai claims that the new Ioniq 5 N is based on three pillars: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar.
For context, Tesla launched the Model S’ high-performance variant in June 2021 at the same time it released the $129,900 Model S Plaid. Meanwhile, the Model S electric sedan costs $79,900. However, that price rose to $88,490, while the Model S Plaid now dropped to $108,490.
Tesla boasts that its Model S Plaid’s Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive has the quickest acceleration speed compared to any other EV in production today. For context, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds. It has a top speed of up to 200 mph and a driving range of 396 miles between charges.
Meanwhile, the Model S dual motor offers a higher driving range of 405 miles. However, its top speed is substantially lower at 149 mph. It can also accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds.
Hyundai’s effort to stay competitive against giants like Tesla
Hyundai has been increasing its electric vehicle production and developing new models as it aims to compete with market leaders like Tesla, BYD, Volkswagen, General Motors, and Stellantis.
The South Korean automaker launched its latest $45,500 Ioniq 6 in the first month of this year and started customer deliveries in the spring.
Hyundai’s brand Genesis also started producing its first US-made EV GV70 on February 21 at its Montgomery factory. Meanwhile, Kia successfully deployed its all-new EV9 SUV on March 15, following Hyundai’s introduction of its second-gen Kona subcompact crossover SUV.
Finally, Hyundai debuted its Ioniq 5 N high-performance sportscar at the Goodwood FOS on July 13, positioning it to compete with behemoths like Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan.
Hyundai claims that the all-new Ioniq 5 N is founded in three major pillars: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sportscar.
The automaker explained that the EV’s Corner Rascal pillar boasts body and chassis underpinnings with higher torsional rigidity and a direct steering feel. These features enable the EV to support rally-capable dual-motor AWD cornering.
Meanwhile, its Racetrack Capability enables a maximum of 478 kW/650 PS when N Grin Boost is activated. It also has innovative thermal management and regenerative braking, improving the EV’s endurance.
Last but not least, it has an N e-shift and N Active Sound + that enables superior feeling and sounds, improving the driving experience.
The Ioniq 5 N can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 kmph) in 3.4 seconds. It also has a top speed of 161 mph. As for the range, the automaker has yet to disclose it at the EV’s regional market launch.
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Hyundai has also not yet revealed the EV’s base price and delivery date. Nonetheless, reports suggest that the 2024 model may launch by the end of 2023 with a base price higher than the Ioniq 5, potentially about $60,000.
