Hyundai Showcases RN24 Rally EV With Ioniq 5 N’s Powertrain

Hyundai N unveiled its next-generation ‘Rolling Lab’ – RN24 – demonstrating the future direction of high-performance N electric vehicles

Hyundai has rolled out the RN24 rally EV at the N Day 2024 event. Rolling Labs have traditionally been the testbeds for high-performance technologies. These include the RM (Racing Midship) series in 2012 and RN22e and N Vision 74. The newest RN24 carries this motorsports legacy forward into the electric era. It borrows elements from Hyundai’s best departments including powertrain from Ioniq N, suspension and Powertrain Drive Control Logic system from WRC (World Rally Championship).

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Hyundai RN24 Rally EV Unveiled

The Hyundai RN24 rally EV uses Ioniq 5 N’s PE (Power Electronics) system. Interestingly, it still retains the E-GMP architecture and an 84 kWh battery pack despite having a 340 mm shorter wheelbase. The barebones roll cage-styled EV still generates a whopping 650 PS of maximum power from two electric motors. Furthermore, it consists of a newly designed WRC-style suspension setup with rally-spec dampers and high-rigidity subframes.

The drivers can adjust PE Power, Acceleration Sensitivity, Regenerative Brake Sensitivity, and PE Power Balance using steering wheel buttons. Furthermore, RN24’s battery and motor cooling performance are ensured by modifications to IONIQ 5 N’s advanced system, and extra agility is achieved by a faster steering setup that delivers a rally car-level response. I particularly like its “Rally Mode” motor torque control feature.

Another key feature of this Rolling Lab is its e-Handbrake technology inspired by Hyundai N’s 10-year history in WRC. It helps reduce weight by eliminating the need for physical brakes. On the outside, its highly rigid, exoskeleton-style exposed roll cage defines its appearance. This adds to the vehicle’s overall performance and stability during high-speed maneuvres along with ensuring driver’s safety.

The N Performance Parts list includes Elantra N 19-inch matte black forged wheels, spoiler from Hyundai Motorsport’s Touring Car Racing (TCR) models to enhance aerodynamics, and 3D-printed gussets for better rigidity and weight reduction. All in all, this Hyundai RN24 rally EV represents the zenith of what the Korean auto giant has to offer.

Specs	Hyundai RN24
Battery	84 kWh
Weight	1,880 kg (4,144 lbs)
Acc. (0-100 kmph / 62 mph)	≤ 3.4 seconds
Wheelbase	2,660 mm (104.72 in.)
Power	650 PS (478 kW) [w/ boost]
Top Speed	240 kmph (149 mph)

Speaking on this occasion, Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand Management Group, said, “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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Learn Electric Cars Says

Hyundai has been constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries of what EVs can do. We have already seen multiple versions of its Ioniq 5 in the past. These include Ioniq 5 N, Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car and Ioniq 5 N TA. All these cater to some of the most renowned racing and rallying competitions in the world. Clearly, the Korean auto giant has the technical prowess to create such monsters from a single platform and powertrain. I am curious to see what more can it achieve in the future.