If you thought the Ioniq 6 was sexy looking, Hyundai thought they could do one better and bring in a car that manifests the look of the Ioniq 6 but take it to the next level. It calls the car the RN22e and according to the company it offers racetrack-ready performance. As Hyundai N's first rolling lab based on the E-GMP platform which is the basis for EVs like the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and even the Kia EV6, the RN22e shows the electrified N brand's vision and direction while opening the possibility of a high-performance EV model in the future.
The RN22e is equipped with AWD and according to Hyundai, the system provides optimised torque distribution according to different drive modes that allows drivers to choose the torque power on the front and rear wheels. On the power front, the RN22e punches out 577 bhp and that's combined output from the motors on the front and rear axle. The car also generates a mighty 740 Nm of torque. It gets a 77.4 kWh battery pack with 400-V/800-V fast multi-charging capability. Hyundai also mentions that it can charge from 10-80% in just 15 minutes. The RN22e gets a maximum speed of 250 kmph and that's great because, on the track it needs all of that in a straight line. But what about the corners?
Well, Hyundai has been developing cornering capability and has been providing e-LSD, Corner Carving Differential, for most N models. RN22e elevates the corner carving feel with inevitably heavier weight, by exploring torque vectoring by twin clutch. Moreover, the 3D printed parts reduce weight and keep the rigidity for better corner attack.
To enhance RN22e's racetrack capability, N focused on cooling and braking to enhance endurance. RN22e provides track-optimized settings to let customers enjoy the circuit without derating. Having four piston monoblock calipers and a 400-mm hybrid disc allows RN22e to withstand the weight of its power electric (PE) system. In addition, Hyundai N will use RN22e to study how to deliver dynamic movement with regen-braking that precisely controls yaw and corner attack.
Hyundai's N Brand is developing new features, such as the emotional driving experience for electrified models. RN22e provides N Sound+, which generates sound from the interior and exterior speakers, for a dynamic driving feel. In addition, N e-shift integrates the vibration and shifting feel with N Sound+. As it is a rolling lab, where Hyundai N continuously develops advanced technologies, these emotional driving experiences will be further developed in various types via RN22e, so that drivers can select their own fun.
By adapting IONIQ 6's streamliner design, RN22e will leverage the new EV's aerodynamic features. Through low ground clearance and emphasized shoulders, Hyundai N achieved a design with a wide and sturdy stance. While maintaining IONIQ 6's design, the lower bumper has been designed to be sporty, radiating an unexpected charm. With these functional aesthetics, RN22e could improve its cooling and aerodynamics.
Measuring 4,915 mm long, 2,023 mm wide and 1,479 mm tall on a 2,950 mm wheelbase, RN22e will continue to develop with motorsports expertise and this really means the company is pushing to innovate, expand expertise and give the customers the core happiness of driving a true electric sports car.
