Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of electric performance with the introduction of the Ioniq 5 N DK Edition, a special edition developed in collaboration with the legendary "Drift King," Keiichi Tsuchiya. Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, this limited-edition model is set to captivate enthusiasts with its aggressive styling, enhanced performance, and a focus on delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
The DK Edition is more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it's a comprehensive performance package designed to capture the essence of Tsuchiya's driving philosophy. Hyundai emphasizes that the modifications were meticulously developed to enhance both on-road performance and circuit capabilities, with Tsuchiya himself playing a pivotal role in pushing the car's limits on the track.
Visually, the DK Edition distinguishes itself with a striking carbon fiber body kit that adds a touch of aggression and enhances aerodynamic performance. The kit includes a prominent front splitter, side skirts, diffuser extensions, and a dramatic roof-mounted gooseneck rear wing. Hyundai highlights that these aerodynamic elements are not merely for show, generating an impressive 93 kilograms of downforce at 140 km/h, significantly improving high-speed stability.
The display model showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon presents a captivating aesthetic. Finished in a sleek matte white, the car is accented by dark glossy elements and subtle green highlights, creating a visually striking contrast. "DK Edition" badges adorn the C-pillars and tailgate, subtly emphasizing the car's unique identity. However, the true highlight lies in the forged 21-inch wheels, which not only enhance the car's visual appeal but also contribute to a significant weight reduction of 10.6 kilograms, improving handling agility.
Beyond the visual enhancements, Hyundai N engineers, in close collaboration with Tsuchiya, meticulously refined the chassis. While various suspension setups were explored, the team ultimately retained the electronically-controlled dampers from the standard Ioniq 5 N, deemed by Tsuchiya himself to be exceptional. However, the car's ride height has been lowered by 15 millimeters (0.6 inches) using H&R springs, resulting in a lower center of gravity for improved handling and cornering performance.
To complement the enhanced handling, the DK Edition features upgraded braking components. Six-piston monoblock brake calipers, crafted from high-strength duralumin, are paired with larger, heat-resistant brake pads boasting a 54% increase in surface area. This significant upgrade ensures exceptional braking performance, even under the most demanding track conditions.
Underpinning the DK Edition's exhilarating performance is the same potent powertrain found in the standard Ioniq 5 N. Dual electric motors deliver an impressive 641 horsepower, while advanced features like N Torque Distribution and the N Drift Optimizer enable effortless and exhilarating power slides on the track, capturing the essence of Tsuchiya's legendary driving style.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N DK Edition is not merely a concept car; it is destined for production. The rollout will commence in the Korean and Japanese markets during the first half of 2025, with Hyundai hinting at plans for further market expansion in the future. This limited-edition model represents a significant milestone for Hyundai's high-performance electric vehicle division, showcasing the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance and delivering an exhilarating driving experience.