Hyundai Motor Company has been pioneering in the car market since its inception in 1967 – and it has just made a splash at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 with the unveiling of the ‘IONIQ 5 N NPX1.’ This concept model, laden with prototype N Performance Parts – aimed at enhancing the high-performance electric vehicle (EV) experience. The resulting vehicle looks serious and promises a boost in performance and handling. Hyundai is looking to develop and release ‘N' variants of future EVs.
The venture into N Performance Parts was first launched in 2019, and marks Hyundai's ongoing dedication to high-quality tuning parts for its customers. This particular journey began in the ICE-age with vehicles like the Elantra N, i30 N, and i20 N.
With a presence in over 200 countries worldwide, a workforce of more than 120,000 and a $15 billion investment to make it the 3rd largest car company in the world in the near future – you have to say that Hyundai Motor Company is ambitious. It is dedicated to the transition through to EVs with its ‘Progress for Humanity' mission helping to transform itself into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The ‘NPX1’ concept is a culmination of this vision at the performance end of the sector, showcasing an exciting future in the EV segment.
The IONIQ 5 is an award-winning electric car already and forms the basis of the ‘NPX1’ concept model. This model is a forerunner, previewing an array of N-specific enhancements that customers will soon be able to purchase. Among these enhancements are:-
- Carbon front splitter
- Side skirts
- Rear diffuser
- Rear wing spoiler
- Lightweight hybrid carbon wheels
In addition to these exterior modifications, the concept model is also kitted with high-performance brake pads, lowering springs and an interior enriched with Alcantara material and racing bucket seats.
Looking forward, the prototype N Performance Parts showcased on the NPX1 concept are in the pipeline for further development and production, with sales anticipated to commence in 2024.
Worth noting that this initiative is not just limited to physical tuning parts – Hyundai is also venturing into software customisation realms, such as sound and vehicle calibration via OTA (Over-The-Air) updates.
Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand Management Group, highlights this as a stride towards a new category of EV customisation, paving the way for an exciting future in the tuning community.
The company’s investment in advanced technologies – including robotics and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), alongside its pursuit of open innovation for future mobility services – aligns with its commitment to a sustainable future. Hyundai's effort to introduce zero-emission vehicles equipped with leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies is a core part of this commitment, underscoring its role as a forerunner in the global automotive industry.