Hyundai's Wild Pikes Peak Gamble With Winged Ioniq 5 N
Image Credit: Hyundai.
What do you get when you mix one part electric SUV, one part mad scientist engineer, and a dash of "hold my beer"? Hyundai's answer: four Ioniq 5 N EVs headed for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. And trust me, two of these bad boys are not your average 5 N models - if you dare to call the 5 N average at all.
Hyundai, apparently bored with making sensible electric crossovers, decided to unleash their inner mad scientist and cook up two "TA Spec" versions of the Ioniq 5 N. These winged beasts are not just grocery getters, they're more like grocery launchers with electric motors cranked up to a whopping 677 horsepower. That's enough juice to power a small village... or win a hill climb.
Image Credit: Hyundai.
Hyundai isn't just sending these souped-up speedsters to the mountain. They're also fielding two stock Ioniq 5 Ns, proving they're not afraid to let the factory-fresh model flex its muscles alongside its steroid-infused siblings. It's a classic underdog story, but with a twist of electricity and a whole lot of torque.
The TA Spec cars are rocking three-way adjustable dampers, motorsport-grade brakes, and sticky Yokohama ADVAN 005 slicks wrapped around 18-inch wheels. Oh, and did I mention the massive rear wing? It's not just for show; it's there to keep the car glued to the road as it rockets up the mountain.
Image Credit: Hyundai.
But the fun doesn't stop there. Hyundai also tinkered with the N Active Sound+ system, turning it into a 120-decibel symphony of simulated engine noise. It's so loud, they ditched the usual electric car sirens at Pikes Peak. Talk about making a statement.
Behind the wheel of these electric beasts are four-time PPIHC winner Robin Shute and WRC driver Dani Sordo. Meanwhile, Pikes Peak legends Paul Dallenbach and rookie Ron Zaras will tame the stock models. It's a clash of titans, and I can't wait to see who comes out on top.
Of course, Hyundai didn't just drop this bombshell and call it a day. They also announced a partnership with the geniuses behind the Gran Turismo racing game, including a virtual Pikes Peak experience. So, even if you can't make it to the mountain in person, you can still experience the thrill of the race from the comfort of your couch.
Hyundai is going all-in on Pikes Peak, proving that electric cars can be just as exciting, if not more so, than their gas-guzzling counterparts. And who knows, maybe they'll even set a few records along the way. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to find a way to get myself to Colorado. This is one race I don't want to miss.
