Hyundai has revealed two high-performance, electric powered concept cars and announced it is to launch a hot version of the IONIQ 5 next year. 

The RN22e is a 577bhp, 160 mph track car based on the newly-revealed IONIQ 6, while the retro-styled N Vision 74 is a hydrogen hybrid ‘rolling lab’ which combines both fuel cell and battery tech. 

The RN22e has been engineered to work on the track rather than the road, and is, according to Hyundai, a ‘corner rascal.’ Equipped with all wheel drive, the RN22e provides optimised torque distribution according to different drive modes that allow drivers to choose if more power is sent to the front or rear wheels.

The RN22e is based on the new IONIQ 6 but designed for the track

The RN22e also features N Sound+, which generates sound from the interior and exterior speakers, to give a ‘more dynamic’ driving feel along with vibrations which mimic an engine and gearshifts. It is powered by two motors, using the same set up as the Kia EV6 GT. 

The retro-looking N Vision 74 is described as a ‘high-performance hydrogen fuel cell hybrid rolling lab’. Its styling pays homage to the Hyundai Pony Coupe concept from 1974, which was developed by the legendary car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro.

The N Vision 74 is more retro and powered by a hybrid fuel cell and battery powertrain

While the Pony was a much-derided budget car for the masses, the N Vision 74 is imposingly large at 4,952 mm long, and powered by two electric motors in the rear which create a combined 670bhp driving the back wheels only. These are powered by a 62.4kWh battery and a hydrogen fuel cell, which give a combined range of 370 miles. 

By having a fuel cell system and battery-electric together, the cooling efficiency is improved, while the two different power sources can be used depending on different driving conditions.

The twin motors produce 670bhp and power the rear wheel only

While both cars are currently just concepts, Hyundai first high-performance electric car branded with the ‘N’ badge will be an IONIQ 5 N, due for launch in 2023. More details about the first EV N will be unveiled later. 

“These rolling lab projects are great assets to prepare the N’s electrification vision turning into reality, the IONIQ 5 N next year,’’ said Till Wartenberg, vice president of the N brand.

An 'N' version of the IONIQ 6 is expected to be launched following an IONIQ 5