Hyundai Ioniq 5 N NPX1: even hotter ‘N Performance Parts’ concept unveiled

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Korean automaker Hyundai has unveiled what it’s calling the Ioniq 5 N ‘NPX1’, an even-hotter version of the high-performance electric SUV intended to showcase an array of future enhancements to be made available on its electric cars. 

Revealed at this week’s Tokyo Auto Salon – a motor show specifically focused around performance cars and custom tuning – the Ioniq 5 N NPX1 takes the regular Ioniq 5 N and equips it with an array of prototype parts that Hyundai say will be available for customers to option as part of its ‘N Performance Parts’ product lineup.

Some of the parts featured on the NPX1 include a carbon front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, rear wing spoiler, new wheels, “high-performance” brake pads, and lowered springs.

While Hyundai is using the Ioniq 5 N to tease the upcoming products, it notes that the specialised tuning components will eventually be offered on all-electric N models after their debut on the Ioniq 5 N.

And it won’t just be the exterior that can be enhanced. Hyundai says the NPX1 also features N Performance Parts products that will be available for the interior too, such as Alcantra material and racing bucket seats.

Hyundai is expected to launch the Ioniq 6 N sedan in the coming years to join the Ioniq 5 N in the electrified N lineup, potentially followed by the production version of the N Vision 74 coupe.

Joon Park, Vice President of Hyundai’s N Brand Management Group said in a statement: “In 2024, Hyundai Motor Company will take a step forward as a leader in new tuning parts suitable for the high-performance EV era as demonstrated with the ‘NPX1’ concept model”.

However, beyond physical updates, Hyundai has also teased over-the-air enhancements that will be made available too. 

Mr Park added: “Not limited to tuning parts, we are also developing software customisation such as sound and vehicle calibration by OTA updates which will open a completely new category of EV customisation for an exciting future ahead for the tuning community”.

Hyundai originally began offering N Performance Parts in 2019, giving N-car buyers the ability to customise their cars beyond their standard specification.

The automaker says the N Performance Parts featured on the new concept will now undergo a process of further development before they eventually go on sale in 2024.

The Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai’s first production high-performance electric car – which we have recently reviewed – arrives in Australia in the first quarter of this year.