Mid-Engined Hyundai RM19 Test Bed Could Spawn A Future “N” Halo Car

Hyundai N’s LA Auto Show debut is the RM19, the latest prototype in its RM series of mid-engine test vehicles.

Going by the full name of RM19 Racing Midship Sports Car Prototype, the vehicle serves as a development platform for future N brand products, including a potential brand-halo car. The Hyundai RM19’s key feature is its “Racing Midship” layout with a powerful engine placed just behind the two-seat cabin.

Combined with rear-wheel drive, this is said to provide “supercar-level handling balance and low-polar-moment-of-inertia agility for outstanding connection to the tarmac at all speeds and driving conditions.”

Power comes from the most powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected gasoline engine of its kind. Rated at 390 HP and mated to a TCR-sourced six-speed sequential transmission, the four-cylinder unit is expected to yield a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time in under 4 seconds.

Shared with Hyundai’s Veloster N TCR and i30 N TCR race cars but unrestricted in any way by regulations, the 2.0-liter turbo four is said to offer “race car-like levels of performance, balance, braking and grip while retaining daily road-going capability.”

Hyundai N says the RM19 prototype can also be adapted to feature state-of-the-art electrified powertrains for “clean, yet thrilling propulsion.” Thanks to the recent investment and strategic partnership with Rimac Automobili, the two companies are working closely together to develop high-performance electric and FCEV prototypes.

“Hyundai N will not only increase heartbeats per minute via powerful internal combustion engines, but also through the instantaneous torque and environmental sustainability of electrified powertrains moving forward,” said Thomas Schemera, executive vice president and head of Hyundai Motor Group’s Product Division.