Hyundai N Division Might Expand with New High-Performance Hybrid Models

With the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N heralding Hyundai N’s electric ventures, the door isn’t closed on the prospect of high-performance hybrid models from Hyundai’s performance brand.

Discussing this possibility, Albert Biermann, the former head of Hyundai N and a BMW M division expert, hinted in his interview with Drive that the Hyundai Motor Group is developing potent hybrid powertrains that could be ideal for N-badged vehicles. There’s speculation that among these is an electrified 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine which could find its way into Genesis’ lineup.

Advising Hyundai, Biermann used the Hyundai i30 N sedan—known in some markets as the Elantra N—as an example of a model that could benefit from hybridization, though he refrained from confirming any plans.

He adds, “Whether this will transpire, I can’t confirm at this point, but technically it’s within the realm of feasibility,” indicating that while not set in stone, the concept is technically viable.

Albert Biermann

Biermann also recognizes that as the automotive industry transitions to electrification, some markets will make the switch more slowly, providing an appropriate landscape for introducing hybrid N models.

Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm, seems to hold a similar approach, with plans to launch hybrid versions of its G80 sedan and GV70 crossover, as suggested by a report from the Korea Economic Daily. This could signal a shift in strategy due to a lull in EV sales, contrasting its previous goal of solely releasing EV models starting 2025. A hybrid-powered hypercar concept from Genesis further supports this flexible strategy.

Is Hyundai N creating a high-performance hybrid car?

– While no official confirmation has been given, Hyundai N is exploring and developing hybrid powertrains that could potentially be used in their performance vehicles.

What models could receive a hybrid powertrain from Hyundai N?

– The Hyundai i30 N sedan, also known as the Elantra N in some markets, is one of the models mentioned by former Hyundai N head Albert Biermann as a candidate for hybridization.

What does Genesis have planned regarding hybrid vehicles?

– Genesis is reported to be working on hybrid versions of the G80 midsize sedan and the GV70 compact crossover, deviating from its initial plan of shifting exclusively to EVs by 2025.

The potential for high-performance hybrids at Hyundai N is an exciting development for enthusiasts of the performance sub-brand. While not yet a certainty, the technical capability is there, and the hints from former Hyundai N chief and automotive veteran Albert Biermann suggest that we may indeed see some electrified excitement in the N lineup. This interest in hybrids seems to be a strategic move in response to varying global market transitions to full electrification and the current fluctuations in EV sales. The prospect of high-performance hybrids offers a thrilling interim solution for those markets and consumers not yet fully ready to make the electric leap.