Hyundai presents new racing test vehicle with electric drive
“Inspired by the desire to fit the most powerful EV powertrain into the smallest possible package,” a 478 kW electric drive and an 84 kWh battery have been installed in a compact EV chassis inspired by the World Rally Championship, according to Hyundai.
The electric drive with two motors and the 84-kWh battery comes from the Ioniq 5 N, which is a whopping 4.72 metres long. However, the hybrid WRC racing car from Hyundai is based on the i20, which is just over four metres long. Compared to the Ioniq 5 N, the wheelbase has been shortened by a whopping 34 centimetres – from 3.00 metres to 2.66 metres. However, the open chassis of the RN24 is due to its status as a technology carrier – a potential production sports car would probably have a more conventional body. A weight of 1.88 tonnes and a top speed of 240 kph are stated as development targets. The RN24 should also be able to accelerate to 100 kph in under 3.4 seconds.
Hyundai itself describes the mission of the RN24 as follows: “This Rolling Lab is not just a test vehicle; it’s a platform for initiating new conversations about next-generation high-performance EVs. It reflects Hyundai N’s daring spirit to continue to explore new ways to improve the electric driving experience — not just by increasing power and speed, but through a meticulous focus on drivability and precision.”
While the engineers on the Ioniq 5 N more or less had to live with the basics of the production vehicle (despite numerous adaptations), they had free rein when it came to designing the chassis of the RN24. This was developed in the style of the rally car, for example with the dampers and a very rigid subframe. The drive control system was also taken from motorsport – despite the switch from the rally car’s hybrid to the electric drive. According to Hyundai, this allows the driver to “adjust PE Power, Acceleration Sensitivity, Regenerative Brake Sensitivity, and PE Power Balance using steering wheel buttons”. PE stands for ‘Power Electronics’, which includes the power electronics of the electric drive.
“Hyundai N is not just a brand but a representation of our commitment to innovation and high performance. RN24 is a testament to our bold ambitions for the future,” said Manfred Harrer, Executive Vice President and Head of Genesis and Performance Development Tech Unit. Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand Management Group, added: “RN24 exemplifies Hyundai N’s commitment to advancing electric motorsport technology by prioritizing the driving experience rather than spec numbers. This Rolling Lab proves that there remains untapped potential for high-performance EVs and with new technologies ahead, there is much to look forward to.”
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