Will The Next Hyundai i30N Be An EV?

It’s pretty obvious that Hyundai’s N division, known for its thrilling i30N (the primary focus of this blog) is steering towards electrification. Amid the discontinuation of petrol models in various markets, the future of the i30N seems to pivot towards electric power, promising an eco-friendly thrill without compromising on excitement. This transition is spearheaded by insights from Albert Biermann, the former head of Hyundai N and now an Executive Technical Advisor, who shared his vision with Australian media.

Hyundai’s performance sub-brand is exploring the realms of electric vehicle (EV) technology, drawing inspiration from the advanced $111,000 Ioniq 5 N. Biermann expressed enthusiasm for a smaller, more affordable electric N car that retains the brand’s hallmark of exhilarating driving experiences. “Of course, we would like to do that,” he affirmed, underlining the aspiration for a lighter, single-motor electric N car with rear-wheel drive.

The technological backbone for this ambitious venture is Hyundai’s newly introduced Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA), succeeding the E-GMP platform that currently underpins models like the Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. IMA’s versatility across nearly all vehicle classes, including SUVs and trucks, offers Hyundai the flexibility to craft a compact, yet powerful electric N variant. This approach aligns with Hyundai’s strategy to evolve existing models into performance vehicles rather than creating standalone N cars.

Biermann emphasized the importance of advanced battery technology to ensure these future electric N cars can endure sustained high-performance driving without overheating. While he hinted at the challenges of achieving such feats before the latter half of the decade, the commitment to electrification is clear.

Hyundai Europe’s recent discontinuation of the i20 N and i30 N petrol models underscores the urgency for an electric successor that can cater to the global fanbase craving affordable performance cars. Biermann’s dedication to this transition is palpable, “This is job number one for N,” he stated, envisioning a future where the exhilaration of N cars is accessible to more enthusiasts through electric power.