Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Reimagined as a Group B Rally Car with ICE Power

Key Takeaways

• Khyzyl Saleem’s design reimagines the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N as a Group B-inspired rally car.
• The concept features a custom bodykit, WRC-sourced ICE engine, and rally car treatment.
• The Ioniq 5 N is one of the most exciting performance-focused EVs, with a sharp design inspired by classic rally icons.
• Hyundai has a strong presence in WRC, competing at the highest level against Toyota Gazoo Racing.
• The concept’s ICE engine would have a maximum permitted output of 375 hp, lower than the Ioniq 5 N’s dual electric motors.

What Inspired the Group B Design?

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s sharp lines and performance capabilities inspired Khyzyl Saleem to create a wild concept, evoking the spirit of Group B Rally icons from the ‘80s.

The Ioniq 5 N is technically based on a crossover, but it looks like a proper hot hatch, making it an ideal candidate for a rally car design.

Designing the Group B-Inspired Bodykit

The custom bodykit alters the Ioniq 5 N’s proportions, making it look ready for the special stages.

The front end features a pronounced carbon fiber splitter and extra LEDs on the vented hood, while the profile includes ultra-wide fender extensions with integrated cooling intakes.

ICE Power for the Group B Ioniq 5 N

Khyzyl Saleem imagines the concept with a WRC-sourced turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a maximum permitted output of 375 hp.

This is lower than the 641 hp from the dual electric motors of the roadgoing Ioniq 5 N, making us wonder if Hyundai could come up with a more potent hybrid setup.

Hyundai’s WRC Presence

Hyundai has a strong presence in WRC, competing at the highest level against Toyota Gazoo Racing.

The Korean automaker started with the Accent WRC in 2000, followed by the i20 WRC in 2014, and the more recent i20 N Rally1 in 2022.

Will the Group B Ioniq 5 N Become a Reality?

The Group B-inspired Ioniq 5 N will likely stick to the digital world, but the project is part of a broader collaboration between Hyundai USA and Khyzyl Saleem.

Last month, Hyundai shared renderings of a Baja-inspired Santa Fe concept on social media, asking their followers which Hyundai model should the_kyza try next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What inspired Khyzyl Saleem’s Group B design?

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s sharp lines and performance capabilities inspired Khyzyl Saleem to create a wild concept, evoking the spirit of Group B Rally icons from the ‘80s.

Q: What engine would the Group B Ioniq 5 N feature?

Khyzyl Saleem imagines the concept with a WRC-sourced turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a maximum permitted output of 375 hp.

Q: Does Hyundai have a presence in WRC?

Yes, Hyundai has a strong presence in WRC, competing at the highest level against Toyota Gazoo Racing.