Hyundai’s Hill Climb

Hyundai’s Pikes Peak Journey

Hyundai and the folks at Evasive Motorsports are taking on a real challenge by entering a uniquely prepped Ioniq 5 N into the famed Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The race, set to traverse the winding 12.42 miles course on June 22, will see seasoned driver Rob Walker, known for his runs in a Scion FR-S, at the helm of this electric beast.

Lightweight Marvel

This isn’t your everyday Ioniq. Billed as Evasive Motorsports’ most daring electric venture, the car is stripped down by a whopping 500 pounds. Much of this weight loss comes from replacing heavy stock parts with carbon fiber counterparts, like the new doors and tailgate. Such a diet helps when climbing up a mountain!

Aerodynamic Wizardry

Evasive Motorsports faced the tough task of souring competition-ready components for this niche build. Enter Japan’s Voltex, who crafted a custom aerodynamic package featuring a carbon fiber splitter, eye-catching fender flares, and sleek side skirts. The underside gets similar aero treatment, culminating in a massive rear spoiler to help push this Ioniq through the thin mountain air.

Performance Parts

When tackling Pikes Peak, speed and control are vital. This Ioniq rolls on 19-inch Titan racing wheels clad in racing slicks from Yokohama. Inside, there’s a six-point roll cage for safety, and the Moton coilover suspension combined with prototype anti-roll bars ensures tight handling through the climb’s hairpins. Dependable stopping power comes from CSG Spec brake pads, and a Sparco carbon fiber seat keeps the driver snug.

Under the Hood

Unlike gas-powered cars where engine mods are the norm, the dual-motor setup in this Ioniq remains untouched, offering an impressive 641 horsepower with 568 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers translate into some quick stats: 0 to 60 mph in a swift 3.25 seconds and a top speed of 162 mph. That’s essentially like launching a rocket down the driveway.

Chasing the Clock

The ambition here is clear: break the elusive 10-minute barrier on Pikes Peak. Mike Chang, co-president of Evasive Motorsports, expressed confidence in their chances, noting past near-misses and the advanced capabilities of the Ioniq 5 N. Let’s just say, they are revved up to make history.

The combination of cutting-edge electric tech and aggressive weight and aero strategies makes the Ioniq 5 N a formidable competitor at Pikes Peak. It blends Hyundai’s advanced EV technology with motorsport enhancements, crafting a machine that’s not just environmentally friendly but fiercely competitive. That mix of speed, agility, and green tech exactly marks what modern racing is creeping towards — performance without compromise.