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Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Dominates Pikes Peak With Record-Setting Performance
Hyundai Motor Company announced the successful completion of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) by its IONIQ 5 N models on June 23, 2024. The vehicles set records in the Electric Modified and Production SUV/Crossover categories, showcasing Hyundai's high-performance electric vehicle (EV) capabilities.
The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec, driven by Hyundai World Rally driver Dani Sordo, won the exhibition class with a time of 09:30.852. Another TA Spec, driven by Randy Pobst, finished in 09:55.551. These models highlight the production-spec IONIQ 5 N’s strengths with minimal modifications.
The IONIQ 5 N production model, driven by Ron Zaras, a PPIHC rookie and automotive media personality, completed the race in 10:49.267. This performance underscores the model’s capabilities without any modifications. "We are absolutely thrilled to set a new record at Pikes Peak and our performance overall," said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand and Motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company.
Hyundai Motor competed with two IONIQ 5 N TA Specs and one production IONIQ 5 N. The vehicles tackled a challenging 12.42-mile course that ascends over 4,700 feet to the summit of Pikes Peak, facing 156 turns and unpredictable weather conditions.
The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec retains most features of the production model but includes minor software tuning to increase motor output and high-performance parts like new shock absorbers, motorsport-spec brakes, and slick tires. This approach demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to high-performance EVs.
Joon Park, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management Group, stated, "This year’s Pikes Peak result is a culmination of a dream dreamt by so many people behind the scenes at Hyundai N." He emphasized that their efforts confirm the competitiveness of their high-performance EV technology in tough conditions.
Hyundai first participated in PPIHC in 1992 when Rod Millen won the 2-Wheel Drive Showroom Stock division driving a Hyundai Scoupe. Another notable achievement was in 2012 when Rhys Millen set a course record with a Hyundai Genesis Coupe.
Future Prospects
Hyundai N plans to continue leveraging motorsports activities like Pikes Peak to showcase their vehicles' superior performance. They aim to develop technology that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations. Future plans include launching special specification models to broaden EV motorsports horizons.
Hyundai Motor originally planned to compete with four vehicles but had to adjust due to injuries sustained by Paul Dallenbach during a practice run. Despite this setback, the team achieved remarkable results with three vehicles.
Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company operates in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees. The company is committed to tackling real-world mobility challenges and accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider.
Hyundai invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). They aim to introduce future mobility services while pursuing open innovation for sustainable solutions. The company continues its efforts towards zero-emission vehicles with leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies.
The achievements at Pikes Peak highlight Hyundai's dedication to expanding high-performance EV possibilities. The company's ongoing efforts aim to push boundaries in EV technology and motorsports.
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