Car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike are taking note as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N secures the prestigious title of 2024 EV of the Year, as announced by a renowned automotive authority. As an electrifying addition to Hyundai’s lineup, the Ioniq 5 N emerged victorious over a competitive field of 17 other contenders which included the Acura ZDX, Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW i5 variants, a suite of Chevrolet electric models, the Fiat 500e, Fisker Ocean, Honda Prologue, Hyundai Kona EV, Kia EV9, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, Polestar 2, Tesla Cybertruck, and the Volkswagen ID.4.
The Ioniq 5 N is Hyundai’s third consecutive model to snatch this award following its predecessors, the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Regarded for providing an exhilarating driving sensation reminiscent of a classic 1980s sports car, the electric vehicle (EV) has caught the attention of both automotive experts and electric vehicle enthusiasts.
Differentiating itself from a crowded field of competitors, the Ioniq 5 N was assessed on four critical components: its value, the excitement of the driving experience, how well it meets its intended purpose, and its contribution to the advancement of automotive technology. It passed with flying colors, delivering admirable performance figures such as a swift acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds, 0 to 100 mph in 6.9 seconds, and completing the quarter mile in 11.1 seconds, reaching a speed of 123 mph.
Beyond its performance, the Ioniq 5 N also impressed with its real-world agility, demonstrating a highway range of 190 miles while cruising at 75 mph, and showcasing efficient fast-charging capabilities which could elevate battery levels from 10% to 90% in just 35 minutes, averaging a power intake of 129 kW. It achieved a maximum range of 221 miles during testing—a significant figure for daily driving needs.
For readers interested in delving into Hyundai’s storied past and its rise to the forefront of the automotive industry, Richard M. Steers’ “Made in Korea: Chung Ju Yung and the Rise of Hyundai” provides a comprehensive look into the company’s history up until the late 1990s. The book, available in various formats, traces Hyundai’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming an automaker that continuously pushes the boundaries of technology and innovation.
The accolade for the Ioniq 5 N is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to evolving its electric vehicle offerings. It stands as a beacon of the extraordinary potential that electric vehicles have to offer exhilarating performance while leading the charge towards a more sustainable future on the road.
