The Hyundai RN24: Unleashing the Power of Electric Sideways Drifting

Hyundai's Groundbreaking RN24 Concept

Hyundai's Rolling Lab series embarked on a revolutionary journey in 2012, teasing us with the possibility of a mid-engined supercar that sadly never materialized in a production model. Multiple concepts were showcased throughout the years, but none made it to the streets. However, the automaker's high-performance N division turned its attention to the electric realm with the introduction of the RN22e concept in 2022.

Now, Hyundai presents us with an all-new electric vehicle that stretches the boundaries of our definitions. Introducing the Hyundai RN24, an EV like no other.

Unleashing the Power within the RN24

The RN24 boasts a dual-motor setup and battery pack similar to the one found in the Ioniq 5 N, but that's where the similarities end. Hyundai's engineers discarded the rest of the bulky crossover and crafted a bespoke chassis inspired by WRC. Despite being 13.3 inches (340 millimeters) shorter, the N team managed to fit the entire 84-kWh battery by skillfully reorganizing the battery cells.

This radical EV sheds unnecessary weight with an exoskeleton-style roll cage and minimalist bodywork. Even with this strict diet, the concept weighs an estimated 4,144 pounds (1,880 kilograms), shaving off around 772 lbs (350 kg) compared to the Ioniq 5 N. The forged 19-inch wheels in matte black are borrowed from the Elantra N sports sedan, giving the RN24 a touch of familiarity. At the rear, the spoiler takes inspiration from Hyundai's TCR race cars.

Innovative Technologies and Exciting Features

Inside the RN24, Hyundai brings out the big guns, utilizing the Powertrain Drive Control Logic system from WRC to give the driver control over the electric motors' power delivery. Buttons mounted on the steering wheel allow the driver to adjust the power balance between the two axles and modify the sensitivity of the acceleration and regenerative braking.

The cooling system is adapted from the Ioniq 5 N, while the e-handbrake takes inspiration from WRC. The electronic motor torque control mimics the setup found in the i20 N Rally1, and a dedicated Rally Mode mirrors the four-wheel-drive system of the gas-fueled hot hatchback, distributing torque to all four wheels.

Unleash the Power, Feel the Roar

The RN24 is not only built to go sideways but also packs an incredible punch in a straight line. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than 3.4 seconds and has an estimated top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h). And even though it's fully electric, its (artificial) roar is guaranteed to turn heads, thanks to two side speakers and rear fenders that double as a soundbox.

While the RN24 will never be commercially available, Hyundai considers it more than just a test vehicle. It serves as a catalyst for discussions about the future of high-performance EVs, paving the way for the Ioniq 5 N and the upcoming Ioniq 6 N sedan.