Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Sets New Bar for Crossover EVs at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
Hyundai Motor Company’s IONIQ 5 N models made history at the prestigious Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) on June 23, achieving record-breaking performances in both the Electric Modified and Production SUV/Crossover categories.
Entering the competition with a blend of speed and endurance, Hyundai showcased its prowess with two IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Specs and one production IONIQ 5 N. Negotiating the daunting 20 km course that climbs over 1,438 meters to the summit of Pikes Peak, the vehicles tackled 156 turns amidst unpredictable weather and high-altitude challenges.
Leading the charge, the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec piloted by Hyundai World Rally driver Dani Sordo completed the race in a blistering time of 09:30.852, securing victory in the exhibition class. Following closely behind, Randy Pobst steered the second TA Spec to a commendable finish in 09:55.551.
The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec, engineered to amplify the production model’s capabilities with minimal modifications, received tweaks such as a 27 kW rear motor output boost, specialized shock absorbers, motorsport-grade brakes, and 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN A005 slick tires. Retaining much of the production model’s essence, the TA Spec exemplifies Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance vehicles.
Meanwhile, Ron Zaras, a rookie at Pikes Peak and automotive media figure, piloted the production IONIQ 5 N to a respectable time of 10:49.267, underscoring the model’s stock prowess.
Reflecting on the achievement, Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand and Motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company, expressed enthusiasm: “Setting a new record at Pikes Peak is a testament to our dedication and performance aspirations. Moving forward, we aim to harness the excitement of motorsports like Pikes Peak to showcase our mass-produced vehicles’ superior capabilities and drive technology advancements that exceed customer expectations.”
The success of the IONIQ 5 N at Pikes Peak reinforces Hyundai N’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of EV technology. Beyond the production IONIQ 5 N, Hyundai N is exploring diverse avenues with variants such as the IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup Car and the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec, promising a future of high-performance EVs that redefine industry standards.
Joon Park, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management Group, celebrated the milestone, stating, “This year’s Pikes Peak achievement is a realization of Hyundai N’s collective vision and dedication. By pushing the envelope of high-performance EVs, we’ve created something truly remarkable—a vehicle that thrives even in the most demanding hill climb race.”
Hyundai Motor’s journey at Pikes Peak began in 1992, marked by Rod Millen’s victory in the 2-Wheel Drive Showroom Stock division driving a Hyundai Scoupe. Noteworthy milestones include Rhys Millen’s record-setting run in a Hyundai Genesis Coupe in 2012, clocking in at 9:46.164.
Note: Hyundai Motor originally planned to compete with four vehicles, but Paul Dallenbach’s participation in an IONIQ 5 N production model was halted due to injuries sustained in practice. During testing, Paul achieved a certified course time of 10:33.86.
