Hyundai N RN24 is driving lab: an agile, lightweight EV
Hyundai N
“Hyundai N is not just a label, but more importantly a symbol of our commitment to innovation and high-performance,” said Manfred Harrer, Vice President and Head of the Genesis and Performance Development Tech Unit. “The Hyundai RN24 is a testament to our bold ambitions for the future.”
RM refers to Racing Midship
At the base of Hyundai N driving laboratories is Project RM, which Hyundai’s sports division launched in 2012. RM refers to Racing Midship, an N prototype with rear-wheel drive and a midship-mounted electric motor. After the RM series, Hyundai N presented its new vision of electrified motorsports two years ago with the driving laboratories RN22e and N Vision 74.
Multiple examples
The RN22e combines the body design of the all-new IONIQ 6 and Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) to create the new standard for high-performance electric vehicles (EVs). The N Vision 74 pairs EV technology with advanced fuel cell technology, making it the first hydrogen-powered fuel cell hybrid concept model with which Hyundai N explores driving fun in the electrification era.
Emphasis on precision and control
With the new RN24, Hyundai N not only focuses on even more power and speed, but above all it emphasizes precision and control. The chassis is similar to that of the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid with which Hyundai celebrates successes in the World Rally Championship. Notable is the short wheelbase. The lightweight EV houses Hyundai’s new Power Electrical System (PE system) from the IONIQ 5 N, which includes a system output of 478 kW (650 hp) and a newly designed 84 kWh battery pack.
WRC Powertrain Drive Control Logic System
The RN24 is equipped with the WRC Powertrain Drive Control Logic system. This advanced system allows the driver to adjust PE Power, Acceleration Sensitivity, Regenerative Brake Sensitivity and PE Power Balance using buttons on the steering wheel. The advanced steering system provides extra agility, making the car respond like a rally car.
The RN24 features a powerful external sound system, with two more side speakers on top of the IONIQ 5 N’s N Active Sound+ setup and a rear fender that acts as a sound box. This provides an intense sound experience to match the car’s sporty performance.
Rally Mode
One of the RN24’s unique technologies is “Rally Mode,” which optimizes the distribution of torque to all four wheels. This system, inspired by the Hyundai i20 N Rally1’s all-wheel-drive system, simulates the mechanical performance of the rally car but is easier and cheaper to apply in future production models.
The e-Handbrake is another technology inspired by ten years of Hyundai’s experience in the World Rally Championship. This electric handbrake saves weight by eliminating the need for physical brakes. Hyundai recently tested this innovative technology at the Central European Rally, one of the rallies in the World Rally Championship.
The RN24 stands out for its rigid, exoskeleton-like roll cage, also from the world of rallying. The roll cage not only further enhances occupant safety but also improves the car’s performance at high speeds.
N Performance Parts
The use of parts from N Performance Parts, such as matte black 19-inch Elantra N rims and the spoiler from Hyundai Motorsport Touring Car Racing models, adds to the performance and appearance of the RN24. N Performance Parts is a Hyundai label dedicated to manufacturing tuning and styling accessories. Starting this year, with the arrival of the all-electric IONIQ 5 N, N Performance Parts is also focusing on tuning and styling parts for the 100% electric sports cars of Hyundai’s N sports division.
‘The RN24 demonstrates Hyundai N’s commitment to advancing technology in electrified motorsports. The main focus is on the driving experience rather than just specifications,’ said Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand Management Group. ‘This driving laboratory proves that much is still possible with high-performance EVs. With new technologies on the horizon, we can look forward to even more exciting developments.’
Hyundai RN24 technical data
- Weight: 1,880 kilograms
- Top speed: 240 km/h
- 0-100 km/h: 3.4 seconds
- Wheelbase: 2,660 mm
- Powertrain: 175 + 303 kW (with boost)
- Battery: 84 kWh
- Wheels: 19-inch
