Witnessing History: My Experience with the Record-Breaking Hyundai Ioniq 5 N TA Spec

I still remember the electric atmosphere at Attack Tsukuba 2025 when Hyundai unveiled the Ioniq 5 N TA Spec—a moment that rewrote electric performance history. As the modified beast roared onto the legendary circuit, I could feel the anticipation among the crowd. With professional driver Nobuteru Taniguchi gripping the wheel, this machine didn't just compete; it dominated, clocking an astonishing 57.446 seconds lap time. That's nearly two seconds faster than any EV had ever managed on Tsukuba's notoriously technical 1.27-mile track! What amazed me most? Hyundai achieved this with mostly production-spec components—the same motor, battery, and electronics you'd find in a showroom Ioniq 5 N.

People often ask: How does Tsukuba's layout challenge performance vehicles? Let me explain. This Ibaraki Prefecture circuit is a motorsport shrine where tight corners, sudden elevation changes, and minimal straights test a car's agility and driver's precision mercilessly. Taniguchi later told me, "I'm honored to have broken my previous EV record so decisively—the 5 N TA's responsiveness made it feel like an extension of my instincts." And responsiveness it had! While based on the production model, Hyundai's engineers transformed it into a track weapon:

• ⚡ Power upgrades: 677 horsepower from the main motor plus 36hp boost from rear motor

• 🔧 Critical enhancements: Motorsport brakes, slick tires, and optimized aerodynamics

• 🛡️ Safety systems: Recaro racing seat, six-point harness, and EV-specific fire suppression

This triumph isn't isolated—it's part of Hyundai's strategic EV offensive. Just months before Tsukuba, the 5 N TA had conquered Colorado's Pikes Peak Hill Climb, setting another record in the modified electric SUV category. Joon Park, Head of N Management Group, emphasized to me: "This demonstrates our commitment to pushing EV performance boundaries." Indeed, with the recent launch of their NSTER subcompact SUV, Hyundai is building an entire ecosystem of high-performance electrics. People also wonder: Can street-legal EVs really compete with gasoline track beasts? The Ioniq 5 N TA answers with a resounding yes—its blend of instant torque and precision engineering makes it a new benchmark.

Watching the Ioniq 5 N TA carve through Tsukuba's S-curves, I realized we're witnessing a paradigm shift. The modifications—while extensive—retain the production model's soul, proving that everyday EV technology can achieve extraordinary feats with thoughtful engineering. As Taniguchi celebrated, the crowd's roar wasn't just for a lap record; it was for the future of electric performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the Ioniq 5 N TA from the standard model?

The TA (Time Attack) version features track-focused upgrades including power boosts to 713hp combined, motorsport braking systems, competition slick tires, and enhanced aerodynamic components while retaining the production model's core electronics.

How significant is a 57.446-second Tsukuba lap for an electric SUV?

It's groundbreaking—this time makes the Ioniq 5 N TA the fastest production-based EV ever at Tsukuba, beating previous records by nearly two seconds on a circuit where tenths of a second matter.

What safety features were added for track use?

Hyundai installed a full PPIHC-spec roll cage, Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans seat, Sabelt six-point safety harness, and specialized EV fire suppression system to protect drivers during extreme performance runs.

Has this vehicle competed elsewhere successfully?

Yes! The Ioniq 5 N TA previously set a class record at the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the modified production electric SUV category.

What does this achievement mean for Hyundai's performance EVs?

This record validates Hyundai's N Division engineering philosophy, demonstrating that their mass-produced EV components can form the foundation of world-beating performance machines with strategic enhancements.