Johnson said: “We insisted on going to the UK because its roads can really drive the ride and handling in an even stronger direction and, from my experience, are unique in pushing the limits of what’s possible.
“We put a lot of attention into expanding the bandwidth of the damper system because of the increased mass of the car.” The Ioniq 5 N is expected to tip the scales at more than 2000kg.
The brakes have been significantly enhanced to withstand greater forces on track, with Hyundai adapting its regenerative system to work in unison with the hydraulic brakes. On track, 40-50% of braking force is handled by the regenerative system, compared with 80-90% on the road.
“The brakes are the most important thing when you’re on track,” said Johnson. “Huge amounts of work went into merging the mechanical system with the electric system, as well as the thermal management. We’re using regen in a different and much stronger way to other EVs and it has really influenced the car’s dynamics.”
The development programme also focused on refining the sensory experience of driving an electric performance car and Hyundai N has added an artificial gearbox and engine sound in a bid to capture the spirit of a traditional petrol hot hatch.