Automotive
Hyundai’s N division has never been shy about having fun, and that spirit appears ready to carry even deeper into the electric age. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N already proved that an EV does not have to feel sterile, silent, or overly serious, thanks to its simulated gear changes, playful sound profiles, and the kind of exaggerated personality that makes it feel more like a performance toy than a rolling appliance. Now, Hyundai reportedly wants its next generation of electric N models to lean even harder into that emotional side of driving.
According to a recent report, Hyundai’s global head of research and development, Manfred Harrer, said future electric N cars could deliver an even more realistic imitation of internal-combustion performance. That may include simulated idling, backfiring exhaust effects, and even vibrations through the cabin to better mimic the mechanical sensations enthusiasts still love. It sounds a bit ridiculous at first, but that is also exactly the point. Hyundai understands that performance cars are not just about numbers. They are about theater, feedback, rhythm, and the silly grin that shows up when a car feels alive.
The current Ioniq 5 N already gives drivers a taste of this philosophy with N e-Shift and N Active Sound Plus, systems that simulate gear changes and engine sounds to make hard driving more interactive. Purists may call it fake, and technically they are right, but Hyundai seems comfortable with that criticism. The company’s thinking is simple: if the artificial experience makes the car more fun, why not keep developing it? In a world where many EVs deliver instant speed but little personality, Hyundai is carving out a lane that prioritizes engagement over quiet perfection.
What makes this even more interesting is that these future N models are expected to ride on Hyundai’s upcoming Integrated Modular Architecture, or IMA. This new EV platform will eventually succeed the current E-GMP setup that underpins models like the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N. Hyundai has indicated that IMA will bring next-generation 800-volt technology, quicker charging potential, and improved thermal management. In other words, the next electric N cars should not just be louder, goofier, and more dramatic. They should also be more capable when pushed hard.
Hyundai’s approach may not appeal to everyone, but it gives enthusiasts something to talk about in the EV era. Instead of chasing Porsche with a stone-faced obsession over lap times, Hyundai N seems happy being the brand that makes performance EVs feel approachable, playful, and a little unhinged. If the next wave of electric N cars can combine serious speed, better battery tech, and a more convincing layer of old-school driving drama, Hyundai may once again prove that the future of performance does not have to be silent, sanitized, or boring.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
