Our team at Arab GT recently discovered an exciting electric drift car—the Hyundai RN24 concept, which we’re thrilled to introduce today.
Hyundai’s Rolling Lab series, launched in 2012, initially aimed to develop a mid-engine supercar. Although several prototypes emerged, none made it to production. Over the years, Hyundai’s high-performance N division shifted its focus to electric powertrains, debuting the Hyundai RN22e concept in 2022. Today, the RN24 concept continues that journey as an electric drift car with performance-focused innovations.
The heart of this electric drift car lies in its powertrain, borrowed from the Ioniq 5 N and consisting of twin electric motors paired with a high-capacity battery pack. However, Hyundai’s engineers have replaced the usual crossover build with a WRC-inspired chassis. Although the wheelbase has been shortened by 13.3 inches, Hyundai’s N team successfully integrated the entire 84.0 kWh battery by reorganizing its cells.
This bold electric drift car is equipped with a roll cage and stripped-down body to reduce unnecessary weight. Despite these reductions, the RN24 still weighs in at 1,880 kg—about 350 kg lighter than the Ioniq 5 N.
Designed with drifting in mind, the RN24 features 19-inch matte black wheels borrowed from the Elantra N sports sedan, while the rear diffuser draws inspiration from Hyundai’s TCR racing models.
This electric drift car also incorporates advanced WRC drivetrain technology, allowing drivers to control the electric motor power through steering wheel buttons. Additional settings enable adjustments in power balance between the front and rear axles, along with options to fine-tune regenerative braking sensitivity.
Cooling is enhanced by a modified version of the Ioniq 5 N’s system, and the electronic parking brake follows WRC standards. The car’s torque control system is designed to replicate the i20 N Rally’s mechanical setup for an authentic performance feel.
In terms of acceleration, the Hyundai RN24 can go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). Despite being fully electric, the RN24 emits an artificial engine sound through side-mounted and external speakers for an added thrill, courtesy of the Ioniq 5 N.
Hyundai has no plans to sell this electric drift car, but it marks a significant development in the brand’s performance EV lineup, described as “starting a new conversation about the next generation of high-performance electric vehicles.” This progression will continue with future models like the Ioniq 5 N and the upcoming Ioniq 6 N sedan.