► RN24 revealed at N Day
► Uses a WRC-inspired chassis
► And Ioniq 5 N powertrain
This is the Hyundai RN24, an unhinged electric go-kart unveiled at Hyundai’s N Day event for 2024. Described as a ‘Rolling Lab’ by Hyundai’s engineers, it follows other wacky design studies such as the hydrogen-powered N Vision 74 and the RN22e. This time however, it’s all-electric and points towards Hyundai’s desire to make an all-electric hot hatch.
‘RN24 exemplifies Hyundai N’s commitment to advancing electric motorsport technology by prioritizing the driving experience rather than spec numbers,’ said Joon Park, vice president of Hyundai’s brand management group. ‘This Rolling Lab proves that there remains untapped potential for high-performance EVs and with new technologies ahead, there is much to look forward to.’
What’s is it?
The RN24 takes an EV chassis inspired by the brand’s WRC cars, and squeezes in the same dual-motor powertrain as the Ioniq 5 N. Weighing just 1880kg but with 641bhp, it’ll do 0-62mph in less than 3.4 seconds.
RN24 uses rally-spec dampers and stiff subframes like that of the WRC car, but it’s got the heart of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N SUV. Its dual-motor setup is the same but now goes through a WRC-spec Powertrain Drive Control Logic system for a deeper level of driver customisation. As a result, the drier can adjust parameters such acceleration sensitivity, brake-regen and power balance between the two axles. A Rally Mode will optimise the torque balance for off-road use too.
Cooling has also been improved, while the steering response has been sharpened compared to the Ioniq 5 N’s to improve the go-kart feel. There’s also a e-handbrake that reduces weight compared to a conventional one. Finally, Hyundai engineers have also included two side-speakers and the Ioniq 5 N’s Active Sound+ set up, so it’ll generate the same sounds as the electric SUV – before amplifying them through a rear apron that acts like a soundbox.
Crucially the battery is modified too; although still rated at 84kWh, it’s been redesigned to allow for a wheelbase some 340mm shorter. That brings the wheelbase of the RN24 to 2660mm in total, and puts it right in the middle of the of the B-segment and similar in size to the i20N WRC car. This is the bit that points at a production car later down the line.
It looks good?
It does, but there’s not too much styling to speak of. The RN24 is essentially an exoskeleton roll-cage and chassis with bits of Hyundai design nestled around it. For example, the front and rear lights use the same pixel-based design as the Ioniq series, and look similar Hyundai’s significantly more sensible Inster EV.
Take a proper a closer look and you’ll find 3D-printed gussets, as well as a spoiler lifted straight from the brand’s TCR models. It also runs on 19-inch matte wheels.