The RN24 has been introduced by Hyundai as a minimalistic rolling laboratory that employs motorsport-inspired technology to showcase the brand’s vision for high-performance electric vehicles in the near future.
This concept is built on the same E-GMP platform used in the Ioniq 5 N but is 340mm shorter due to a reconfigured battery pack. It combines the Ioniq 5 N’s impressive dual-motor setup, delivering 641bhp and 546lb ft, with a lightweight chassis inspired by World Rally Championship (WRC) design.
The goal was to create the most powerful electric vehicle powertrain within the smallest possible framework. With its exoskeleton-style exposed roll cage, the RN24 tips the scales at 1880kg, which is 355kg lighter than the Ioniq 5 N, while still achieving a sprint time of 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds. The car’s top speed is capped at 149mph.
Hyundai described this rolling lab as more than just a test vehicle; it serves as a platform to foster discussions about the future of next-generation high-performance electric vehicles. Although limited, the RN24 shares some of its bodywork with the upcoming Hyundai Inster, suggesting the potential for a future Inster N variant.
Powering the concept is an 84kWh battery pack, identical to that in the Ioniq 5 N, which provides a range of 278 miles. Given the purpose of the concept, Hyundai has enhanced its battery and motor cooling capabilities.
Additionally, the RN24 is fitted with a next-generation software system derived from WRC, featuring a large rear wing and improved steering for enhanced agility and control that aims for a “rally car-level response.”
As part of its design, the concept incorporates a Rally Mode that electronically replicates the advanced four-wheel-drive system found in the i20 N Rally1, optimizing torque distribution to the wheels. Hyundai asserts that this demonstrates how intricate systems can be simplified and made cost-effective in electric vehicles, paving the way for more practical applications in future production models.