Hyundai RN24 Shows the Potential of High-Performance EVs

Hyundai N got a sneak peek at development work for the next generation of high-performance electric vehicles.

Hyundai's Performance Skunkworks unveiled the RN24 concept on Friday, a so-called rolling laboratory built to test technologies that could be included in future production models bearing the N badge.

Hyundai N has done the same with a series of similar concepts, including the RM mid-engine concept, which was used to develop the ultimately cancelled mid-engine supercar, and the more recent N Vision 74 of 2022, which is suggested to reach production have been.

For the RN24, engineers aimed to fit the most powerful EV powertrain into the smallest possible package. In this case, the powertrain is the Ioniq 5 N dual-motor all-wheel drive setup with a peak of 641 hp. It is mounted on a subcompact chassis inspired by the chassis used by Hyundai's motorsports division in the World Rally Championship.

The wheelbase is about 13.4 inches shorter than the Ioniq 5 N and required a redesign of the Ioniq's 84 kwh battery pack. The suspension was also designed to match the setup used in Hyundai's rally cars, with similar dampers and a stiffer subframe.

The concept has no body. The result is an EV that is not only powerful, but also compact, lightweight, and agile, according to Hyundai N.

Electronic chassis systems have also been adopted from Hyundai's rally cars, especially the current i20 N Rally1 Hybrid. One such system is the powertrain controller, which allows the driver to adjust peak power, acceleration sensitivity, and regenerative braking sensitivity. The steering system was also made to match the speed of systems used in rally cars.

Hyundai N also developed a rally mode for the electronic powertrain, designed to distribute torque to all four wheels in a manner similar to the mechanical setup employed in rally cars. According to Hyundai N, the RN24's rally mode features complexity and cost that make its application in future production models realistic.

Other technologies that could potentially make it to production include an electronic handbrake and a sound generator that adds two side speakers to the N Active Sound+ system already found on the Ioniq 5 N to produce a loud sound. The RN24's rear fender also doubles as a sound box, further enhancing the sound experience for occupants as well as those outside the vehicle.