Since the introduction of the original Hyundai i30 N, the Korean brand’s N performance arm has developed several highly compelling models. Now, with the debut of the new Ioniq 5 N, they are entering the realm of sporty EVs for the first time. Yet, the question remains: are we likely to see a more affordable EV from N in the near future?
This question was directed to Hyundai N’s executive technical advisor, Albert Biermann, during the Australian launch of the Ioniq 5 N. The man behind the performance brand responded affirmatively, stating that “of course,” N would be interested in such a model. However, he acknowledged the challenges, noting that N currently relies on existing platforms and is not at the point where it can develop its own bespoke models with unique underpinnings.
“We are intensely looking, what do we have in the pocket and how do we make the condition out of what we have?” he said. “This process is going on intensely for quite some time because for me, the most important thing is to come up with this smaller, more affordable [EV] N car.”
“We need this smaller segment N car and for the rest of my term with the Hyundai Motor Group, this is my absolute priority number 1 to come up with a concept for a car or two cars, whatever, where we can deliver the true N car in a more affordable segment but with the same level of fun or even higher level of driving fun. This is job number 1 I think for N at this point as we look forward into the future,” said Biermann.
Like lesser electric vehicles from the Hyundai group, the Ioniq 5 N is based around the E-GMP platform and uses motors which in the words of Biermann, are roughly 95% identical to those of lesser variants.
Read: We’re Driving The 641 HP Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, What Do You Want To Know?
Hyundai’s next generation of electric vehicles will utilize the Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA), which the company says represents a “significant advancement” over the E-GMP platform. This advanced platform will serve as the foundation for future EVs from the N brand. Hyundai emphasizes that the IMA is so flexible that it can encompass “nearly all vehicle classes” and will be complemented with advanced new Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NCM) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.
So, while Hyundai N wants a fun, affordable EV, it says that making it a reality will be a challenge and has not been able to put a timeline on such a model.
