Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Aims to Break EV Records at Pikes Peak

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb stands out among other prestigious races by keeping a readily accessible record of all current and past class records throughout its 101-year history. There are three vacant spots in the Eligible Non-Division Records section that await contenders: Production Truck/Van, Electric Production SUV/Crossover, and Electric Modified SUV/Crossover. Interested participants must declare their record attempt beforehand.

Hyundai is set to compete for at least one of those open SUV/Crossover records, bringing four Ioniq 5 N electric crossovers to the starting line in Colorado this June.

Two of the showcased cars are production models that have been prepared for racing with safety features typically seen in competitions. Modifications include the removal of back seats to accommodate a roll cage, a fire suppression system, and a Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans driver's seat with a six-point Sabelt harness.

The standard dual-motor powertrain will deliver a maximum of 641 horsepower through Yokohama Advan tires. The special N division livery adds a slight boost of around five horsepower. These vehicles will be driven by experienced PPIHC champion Paul Dallenbach and first-time competitor Ron Zaras.

Hyundai is expected to target the modified record, as they have hinted at showcasing a modified Ioniq 5 N before a race at the Nürburgring 24-Hour event. The modified car will be driven by Robin Shute, last year's PPIHC overall champion, and Hyundai World Rally Championship team driver Dani Sordo.

Hyundai has a history of participating in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, with their first appearance dating back to 1992 when Rod Millen secured a victory in the Two-Wheel-Drive Showroom Stock class with a Hyundai Scoupe.

The manufacturer has made regular visits to the 12.42-mile course that ascends 4,725 feet, with notable performances up until 2018. With no previous records set in the EV SUV/Crossover category, Hyundai is poised to make a mark in this year's event.

Notable past factory efforts include a second-place finish in the Unlimited Class in 2013 and a class record in the Time Attack division with a Hyundai Genesis Coupe driven by Paul Dallenbach.