Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Claims Record as Fastest Electric Vehicle at Attack Tsukuba 2025
Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Sets New EV Record at 'Attack Tsukuba 2025'
Hyundai Motor Company's IONIQ 5 N has made history by achieving the fastest lap time for an electric vehicle (EV) during the 'Attack Tsukuba 2025' motorsport event. On February 15, 2025, the renowned Tsukuba Circuit in Japan served as the backdrop for this remarkable feat, marking a significant milestone in the automotive industry.
The event was made even more special with Nobuteru Taniguchi, a celebrated Japanese professional driver, at the wheel. Taniguchi pushed the IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Spec to secure a stunning lap time of 57.446 seconds, surpassing the previous EV record by a remarkable margin. He expressed his excitement, stating, "I'm honored to have driven the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Spec at Attack Tsukuba 2025, where I was able to significantly break my previous EV record. The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec stops remarkably well and handles excellently." His confidence in the vehicle's performance was apparent as he noted the outstanding control and stability when cornering.
The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec is a motorsport-enhanced version of the widely acclaimed production model. It not only builds on the already impressive features of the standard IONIQ 5 N but also includes significant upgrades that amplify its performance. The vehicle retains its high-performance power electronics system, while the maximum output has been boosted to an impressive 687 PS through software tuning. The rear motor's power has also received a notable enhancement, increasing by 37 PS compared to the standard model.
To achieve this feat, several advanced modifications were made to the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec. These included the innovative N Active Sound+, featuring modified speakers that create an exhilarating sound that exceeds 120 dB, along with new shock absorbers, motorsport-grade brakes, and high-performance 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN 005 slick tires. A specially designed aerodynamic package, a Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans seat, a six-point Sabelt Hans safety harness, a roll cage built to PPIHC specifications, and an EV fire suppression system further exemplified Hyundai's commitment to blending safety with performance.
The 57.446 seconds lap time set by the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec establishes it as the fastest electric vehicle to conquer the Tsukuba Circuit, significantly edging out its nearest competitor by nearly two seconds. This remarkable accomplishment emphasizes Hyundai's technological capabilities in the electric vehicle arena, further solidifying its position within Japan's developing EV market. In addition to this milestone, Hyundai Mobility Japan recently expanded its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the INSTER sub-compact electric SUV, highlighting the brand's dedication to sustainable transportation.
Joon Park, Head of the N Management Group at Hyundai, underscored the significance of this achievement by stating, "Today's record is a clear demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to advancing EV technologies and delivering exceptional performance. The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec's new record, using primarily production components, is a critical milestone that validates our technological prowess. It illustrates Hyundai N's aspiration to infuse high-performance EVs into the global automotive culture through events like Attack Tsukuba." This accomplishment not only showcases Hyundai's engineering excellence but also sets a benchmark for future ventures within the electric vehicle segment.
As we look towards the future of mobility, the success of the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec at Attack Tsukuba 2025 illustrates the growing potential and enthusiasm for electric vehicles in motorsport and beyond.