The fully electric crossover competed in stock and in TA Spec forms, both setting benchmark times in their respective categories
- The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N TA Spec set a new record in the Electric Modified class of Pikes Peak, with WRC driver Dani Sordo clocking 9:30.852.
- The production-spec Ioniq 5 N became the fastest electric production SUV at Pikes Peak, with a certified time of 10:33.86 in pre-race testing.
- Hyundai will keep launching special EVs to “broaden the horizon of EV motorsports”.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N showcased its performance at this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, setting new records in the Electric Modified and Production SUV/Crossover categories. At the same time, the company confirmed it will continue to launch special EVs and participate in high-profile motorsport events.
Hyundai competed at the iconic 12.42-mile (20 km) climb with two examples of the Ioniq 5 N TA Spec (Time Attack), and one production-spec Ioniq 5 N. Predictably, the specially prepared models were significantly faster than the roadgoing version, although the latter scored an impressive run time as well.
Review: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Is A Ballistic Missile That Redefines EVs
The Ioniq 5 N TA Spec with WRC driver Dani Sordo behind the wheel, completed the climb in 9:30.852, taking the win at the exhibition class and setting a new record in the Electric Modified class. The second TA Spec model, driven by Randy Pobst, finished a full 25 seconds behind it, with an official time of 9:55.551.
The unmodified production Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, piloted by rookie driver Ron Zaras completed a 10:49.267 run, making it the fastest electric production SUV/crossover at Pikes Peak.
There was also a second stock Hyundai Ioniq N that was supposed to participate in the climb, but stunt driver Paul Dallenbach sustained injuries during practice that kept him from competing. Still, Dallenbach achieved a certified time of 10:33.86 in pre-race testing, creating high expectations. Note that the overall record for production SUVs belongs to the Lamborghini Urus Performante, after a 10:32.064 run back in 2022.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N TA Spec at Pikes Peak
Besides the wild aero, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N TA Spec also has an increased power output compared to the stock version, alongside new shocks, slick tires, and motorsport-derived brakes.
Following the hill climb, Hyundai confirmed it will launch more “special specifications models” like the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car racer and the aforementioned Ioniq 5 N TA Spec, as it wants to “broaden the horizon of EV motorsports”.
In the same context, Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand and Motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company said: “Going forward, we plan to continue leveraging exciting motorsports activities such as Pikes Peak to showcase the superior performance of our mass-produced vehicles and continue to develop technology that not only meets customer needs but exceeds their expectations.”