Hyundai Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car revealed

HYUNDAI has revealed its Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car at an official practice round for teams participating in the upcoming Hyundai N Festival motorsports event.

The unique, all-electric model signals what the South Korean manufacturer says is a new era is sustainable racing, with system power of 478kW, a dual motor/all-wheel drive powertrain, and a robust battery thermal management system designed with intensive circuit driving in mind.

“We are incredibly proud to unveil the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable racing,” said Hyundai N Brand and Motorsport vice president Till Wartenberg.

“This unique electric racing car demonstrates our cutting-edge technology and passion for pushing the boundaries of what EVs can achieve on the racetrack.”

Utilising the same power electronic system as the production Ioniq 5 N, the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car is a top-class racing car for professional drivers competing in the N1 class, with enhanced circuit performance using slick tyres.

The new eN1 class, to be introduced this year, will operate under open regulations so that teams can compete with various tyre products without being restricted to a single manufacturer.

It is further differentiated from the donor model by a redesigned body kit, low and wide-style over-fenders, wider wheel trajectories and increased aerodynamic downforce. Further, the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car is lighter than the road-going model with forged alloy wheels, an FRP bonnet, and polycarbonate windows.

Keeping the model in check with racing regulations, the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car is equipped with essential safety elements including an FIA-approved roll cage, racing seats and harnesses. Additional safety measures include an asphyxiation-type fire extinguisher and modified charge port location.

The Hyundai N Festival has become the largest one-make race series in South Korea, the ‘e’ in eN1 denoting the electrification of the class, and Hyundai’s commitment to sustainable racing.

Hyundai says the upcoming season will serve as a trial period for EV racing, marking the introduction of EV racing at the Hyundai N Festival. The Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car will be “tested and improved” in the Proto category of the event, the season further allowing race teams, drivers, and marshals to learn about and develop the EV racing competition.

“Through the eN1 class, our ultimate aim is to establish Hyundai Motor as a true leader in the EV motorsport platform, fostering the growth and development of Korea’s vibrant motorsport culture while making a resounding impact on a global scale,” said Hyundai N Brand head Joon Park.

“With the eN1 class, we are poised to redefine the future of racing and pave the way for a new era of electrifying motorsport achievements.”

The Hyundai N Festival will kick off with the opening round at Inje Speedium on April 27.