Ioniq 5 N DK Edition: Hyundai's performance EV gets special handling touch

Keiichi Tsuchiya fine tunes Ioniq 5 N handling

We love the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N with the way it replicates the driving sensations of a high-performance ICE car in an all-electric package. But somehow the folks over at Hyundai still believe it can get better.

For that, they hired the help of a celebrated personality in the aftermarket and drifting scene – the Drift King himself, Keiichi Tsuchiya. That’s right. Hyundai has come up with the Ioniq 5 N DK Edition, which gets a host of performance parts designed to enhance the EV’s handling characteristics.

Hyundai has developed lightweight carbon fiber aero parts to boost downforce and improve the stability of the Ioniq 5 N at high speeds with the DK Edition. The kit includes a carbon fiber front splitter, a large carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber side skirt, and a rear diffuser. According to Hyundai, these elements combine to provide an additional 93 kg of downforce at 140 km/h.

Meanwhile, the Ioniq 5 N DK Edition now rides 15mm lower than the standard model as Hyundai fitted lowering springs developed with H&R. It was developed to work seamlessly with the car’s electronically controlled suspension to provide better stability and enhance driving performance.

These were done to maximize the overall grip brought by the wider 21-inch forged wheels, which also feature knurled rim shoulders to prevent the tires from twisting on the rims, especially in high G cornering and sideways drifting. Despite the increase in width, Hyundai says the new set has reduced a total of 10.6 kg of unsprung weight. For better and more consistent stopping power, the DK Edition’s front brakes now feature six-piston duralumin calipers with increased pad area from the performance brake pads.

As it is a handling package, the EV powertrain of the Ioniq 5 N remains unchanged, along with the trick pseudo-shifting and its simulated engine sounds. However, the DK Edition distinguishes itself as it’s painted white with green paint on the exterior trim pieces, calipers, and springs that match Keiichi Tsuchiya’s signature racing suit.

For now. Hyundai says the DK Edition will be launched in Japan and Korea this year. But a more detailed sales plan will follow at a later date.