Hyundai unveils menacing new Ioniq 5 NPX1 electric concept car

16 January 2024 - 07:37
subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now
The concept car features an aggressive-looking body, high-performance brakes and a lowered stance. Picture: SUPPLIED
The concept car features an aggressive-looking body, high-performance brakes and a lowered stance. Picture: SUPPLIED

Hyundai’s N Performance Parts division has provided sporty extras for the brand’s N-badged petrol cars since 2019 and now its electric cars will be able to get the same cosmetic treatment.

The Korean carmaker unveiled a concept car equipped with sporty N Performance Parts at the Tokyo Auto Salon at the weekend. The Ioniq 5 N NPX1 previews an array of N-specific enhancements that will be available for purchase from a catalogue of N Performance Parts in the near future.

Looking sinister in its blacked-out garb, the concept car features a carbon front splitter, side skirts, lightweight hybrid carbon wheels, high-performance brake pads and lowering springs. A rear diffuser and huge tail wing make the car look ready to take on racetracks.

The interior is enhanced with Alcantara material and racing bucket seats.

Joon Park, vice-president of N Brand, said the company is also developing software customisation such as sound and vehicle calibration by over-the-air updates, which will open a new category of EV customisation.

The NPX1 looks racetrack-ready with its rear diffuser and giant wing. Picture: SUPPLIED
The NPX1 looks racetrack-ready with its rear diffuser and giant wing. Picture: SUPPLIED

Launched in 2021 as the first model in Hyundai’s dedicated Ioniq brand of battery-electric vehicles, the Ioniq 5 was voted the 2022 World Car of the Year by a jury of motoring journalists from 33 countries.

The high-performance Ioniq 5 N was unveiled last year, boasting a supercar-like power output of 478kW with the N Grin Boost (NGB) mode engaged, which maximises acceleration for up to 10 seconds. The electric hot hatch silently scoots from 0-100km/h in just 3.4 seconds and reaches a 260km/h top speed.

The Ioniq 5 is not planned for local introduction. Hyundai SA spokesperson Deon Sonnekus says EVs are too expensive and this will not change soon after trade & industry minister Ebrahim Patel recently announced there will be no relaxation of import duties for battery-powered cars.


subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.