![We took the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N on the track at Laguna Seca and it's something special [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/04/Hyundai-IONIQ-5-N-hero.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
We took the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N on the track at Laguna Seca and it’s something special [Video]
As Hyundai’s N performance arm approaches the launch of its first-ever track-friendly EV, we got the chance to visit the world-famous Laguna Seca raceway in California to test drive the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N. Be sure to check out the full video review below.
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The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N has finally arrived
It’s been nearly two years since we first learned of an N-brand version of the relatively new Hyundai IONIIQ 5 EV when it was featured in a teaser video shared by the Korean automaker during the global premiere of the IONIQ 6.
As the first all-electric Hyundai model to adorn the “N” performance badge, a lot has been leading up to our recent test drive, but the details Hyundai has shared along the way have been quite encouraging.
First, we saw footage of a camo’d Hyundai IONIQ 5 run at Nürburgring, followed by its official public debut in July 2023 during the Goodwood Festival of Speed. By November, the performance EV model had made its official debut in North America, followed by shared pricing this past March before deliveries began.
While first customers await their own track-capable IONIQ 5 N, Hyundai invited some media out to Monterey, California, to experience the unique EV and its various drive elements where else but Laguna Seca.
Hyundai IONIQ 5 N kicks the door in on EV motorsports
As you’ll see in my first-drive review video below, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is more than just an EV that can corner and simulate gear shifts. Its reinforced structure, low profile, and boosted specs compared to the standard crossover make the N model the first true all-electric racing car beyond the 0-60 mph straightaway.
The Hyundai N team was clever in essentially utilizing the same footprint as the original IONIQ 5 but optimizing it for tight maneuvers and aerodynamics. For example, the N model is slightly longer, wider, and lower in height than the original 5, with larger wheels and wider tires (custom Pirelli P ZEROs).
The 5 N features an integrated drive axle, the same as in the Elantra N, which was also available to drive at Laguna Seca on an autocross course. Hyundai N also implemented rack-type motor-driven power steering, which is more rigid. Lastly, the suspension layout is precisely the same as the IONIQ 5, but each component in the new EV variant is entirely unique to the N variant.
N-Brand exclusive components decorate the EV’s exterior, from a new custom front bumper and grille with active air flaps to wheel arches and a rear spoiler that allows air to flow more easily. In true Hyundai fashion, the (speedy) devil is in the little details. The IONIQ 5 N features a unique black aluminum badge, a bright orange racing stripe, and “N” logos throughout.
I loved the subtle nod to the racetrack by implementing checkered flags in unassuming spots like the rear reflectors, door panels, and base frames. If you’ve driven the original IONIQ 5, you won’t notice a massive veer from its interior in the N-version. However, those few changes are quite an upgrade, especially from a racing comfort perspective.
The seats are sportier buckets styled with Alcantara, resembling more of a track car while still offering air conditioning for those whose backs tend to sweat when they’re trying the corkscrew at Laguna Seca for the first time. The center console was also completely redesigned for function and more comfort. By that, we mean it has more cushioning and padding with fewer moving parts, so if your leg keeps bumping it during hot laps, it won’t bother you.
The steering wheel is the centerpiece of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N’s interior. It provides a comfortable grip and easy access to drive modes and other vehicle functions, such as regenerative braking and N e-Shift.
Navigating Laguna Seca in the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N
Before I took to the famous raceway in California, I got the chance to take the 5 N out in streets around the area and get feel for it… you know, at regular speeds. First impressions were that it was definitely an IONIQ – smooth right, that recognizable EV hum, and excellent i-Pedal regenerative braking.
Once I got out around some curvy roadways, I switched through the 5 N’s drive modes using the new steering buttons. That’s when I first experienced the EV’s N Active Sound+. I recommend checking out my initial reaction in the video below. This feature is wild and never something I thought I’d like, but I truly did.
I did three runs at Laguna Seca in the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, each consisting of a lead lap behind a professional driver (both of which will be racing up Pike’s Pike for Hyundai this summer), followed by three hot laps.
Each run, we explored a different drive style the IONIQ 5 N had to offer, including N Race mode that enables the use of N Grin Boost for 10 seconds of maximum horsepower, and N e-Shift, where the driver can manually “shift gears” from the steering wheel – both of which are accompanied by the Active Sound+.
I’m admittedly not much of an experienced track driver, so the looming thought of racing around Laguna Seca in someone else’s shiny car had me a little anxious, but as a passenger EV that can essentially double as a track car, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N was the perfect vessel for me to test drive the famous track, and I was immediately hooked.
I genuinely felt the rear electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) and N electronically controlled suspension (ECS) components in the 5 N’s chassis, which helped keep the BEV super sticky around corners while still giving me the freedom to whip that tail end around if I wanted… or a couple of times when I wasn’t trying to (came in a little hot on turn six the first couple runs!)
While I was a fan of the simulated engine noises, I didn’t like N e-Shift and turned it off halfway through the first lap. I could see how a more traditional racing enthusiast could have more fun with this. Still, as a younger person who (don’t kill me) has never driven a manual, I don’t see the need to pretend like you’re switching gears, especially since the car just buzzes at you but doesn’t have a clutch or anything. It also significantly slows the EV down in that mode, pass for me.
By my third run, I had those tires squealing and got to use N Grin Boost a couple of times on straightaways to really feel the full 641 horsepower of the 5 N. I felt like I was in a Fast and Furious race or something, hitting my “NOS” button to break someone’s heart and take their pink slips. I definitely would have kept someone’s Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, that’s for sure.
Specs, pricing, and our video review
Overall, I think the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is a genuinely superb vehicle. Is it going to be for everyone? Absolutely not. Most consumers will be more than happy with an SEL or Limited version of the standard IONIQ 5 and save a little cash.
However, if you come from the racing world and like cornering and track days, this might be the perfect car for you. You get all the same design features as the award-winning IONIQ 5 (albeit significantly lower range because of all its power – 221 miles), but also a slew of N-specific add-ons included from both a performance and aesthetic level.
Keep in mind that this is still an 800V platform and can recharge 10-80% in just 18 minutes. I personally like that Hyundai is selling the IONIQ 5 N as an all-in-one package model with everything included. It costs $66,100 before taxes and fees and includes everything mentioned above and then some.
At that price, it is Hyundai’s most expensive version of the IONIQ 5 (about $8,500 more than the Limited AWD trim), but that’s still a pretty reasonable price if you compare it to other crossovers on the market – none of which you can actually take to a track and do more than drag race and maybe some autocross.
I’ve never really had any interest in visiting racetracks, let alone driving on them, but now that there’s a viable BEV option that not only looks cool as hell but can also perform, I’m digging it. I finally see what all those combustion fans get so excited about. I feel the IONIQ 5 N is an excellent bridge between both groups of enthusiasts, providing a vehicle that both traditional race fans and clean energy BEV enthusiasts can get excited about together.
This car will definitely have a crowd around it on track days, and I think that’s an awesome idea for the future of electric motorsports. As promised, here’s my video review, including some loud drive footage of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N at Laguna Seca.
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Tesla’s sales have fallen 87% in Quebec in the first quarter 2025 compared to the same period last year.
The critical Canadian market has been wiped out, and Tesla is no longer importing new vehicles.
Quebec is the leading EV market in Canada, with the highest adoption rate of new electric vehicles.
That’s due to incentives, cheap hydro electricity, and a strong base of EV enthusiasts.
As the EV leader in North America, Quebec became an important market for Tesla.
However, Tesla’s market in Quebec is now gone.
We don’t have all Canadian data for vehicle registrations in the first quarter; however, Le Devoir managed to obtain data for Quebec from the Société d’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), which revealed that Tesla delivered only 524 vehicles in Quebec during Q1 2025.
That’s down 87% compared to Q1 2024.
The pause in the Quebec and federal EV incentive programs contributed to the sharp decline, but the pause also happened in the quarter, which helped sales by creating urgency to buy and take delivery.
However, it also created an awkward situation for Tesla in which it was accused of filing thousands of questionable requests for incentives worth $42 million CAD, which it later claimed was a backlog of deliveries that it hadn’t filed yet.
This controversy added to growing brand damage for Tesla in Quebec and the broader Canada due to its CEO Elon Musk’s backing of Donald Trump, who is openly calling for the US to annex Canada.
Tesla’s Canadian Troubles are not over
While Q1 2025 was bad, Q2 could prove even worse. Tesla had to increase prices in Canada in April due to the Canadian government slapping 25% tariffs on its vehicles in response to Trump’s trade war.
The combination of the end of some incentive programs, the higher prices, and the degrading sentiment for Tesla in Canada and Quebec is leading to very few sales in the market.
A source familiar with the matter said that Tesla doesn’t plan to import more vehicles in the country this quarter due to low demand.
The broader EV market in Canada declined 45% in Q1 due to the pause in the incentive program, but Tesla’s decline was much sharper, indicating larger issues than just the lack of incentives.
Electrek’s Take
The situation for Tesla in Canada is even worse than in Europe right now. It’s not the largest market in terms of size, but it has a significantly higher EV adoption rate than the US and has helped Tesla in North America.
As long as the tariffs are in place, there’s little hope for Tesla in Canada.
Even if they are removed, which I hope happens soon, as it would mean a de-escalation of Trump’s dumb and illegal trade war, Tesla is still going to have major brand issues due to Musk’s backing of Trump and him saying some foolish things like “Canada is not a real country.”
All of those factors add to Tesla’s aging and limited lineup, which too heavily relies on Model Y, which had a refresh that wasn’t significant enough to revitalize sales.
It’s really hard to be optimistic about Tesla right now.
In Canada, Tesla currently has some inventory of the new Model Y, which it managed to secure before the tariffs. If you’re interested in a Cybertruck, there are plenty available. Although, I have a feeling that you are better off waiting a bit as I assume prices will come down.
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![Here's a closer look at Kia's low-cost EV2 [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/05/Kia-EV2-closer-look.jpeg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
Kia’s smallest and most affordable EV is already creating quite the buzz. The EV2 will sit below the EV3 in Kia’s expanding EV lineup. With its official launch approaching, the Kia EV2 was spotted on public roads, giving us a closer look at the upcoming electric SUV.
Take a closer look at the Kia EV2 caught on public roads
Although the EV2 will likely only be around 4,000 mm (157″) long, Kia promises it won’t feel so small when you’re actually in it.
Last month, we got a sneak peek of the interior at Milan Design Week. During an exclusive event, Kia showcased the EV2 concept and revealed a few new details we can expect to see.
Kia designed the EV2’s interior to be a relaxing retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, sort of like a porch or balcony. Thanks to its flat floor layout, the SUV offers flexible seating. By folding the second-row seats and pushing the front seats forward, the EV2 offers an open space to stretch out or “enjoy a meal,” according to Kia.
Although no other details were offered, like Kia’s newer EVs, you can expect to see its new ccNC panoramic infotainment system with dual 12.3″ driver and navigation screens.
After the EV2 was spotted driving on public roads, we are getting a better look at Kia’s upcoming electric SUV. The video from ShortsCar reveals a front-end design similar to that of the EV3, EV5, and EV9, featuring its signature vertical daytime running lights (DRLs) and Star Map lightning.
Despite its small size, the EV2 has a surprisingly large presence on the road, thanks to its upright stance and broad wheel arches, reminiscent of the larger EV9.
A production version of the EV2 was also spotted in Germany this week, with its European debut just around the corner. The images by SH Proshots (via TheKoreanCarBlog) show a similar design to the model caught driving in Korea.
Kia will launch the EV2 in Europe and other regions in early 2026. Prices and final specs will be revealed closer to then, but the EV2 is expected to arrive with a WLTP range of around 300 miles (483 km). Smaller battery options could offer less range at a lower price.
Since it’s slated to sit below the EV3, which is 4,300 mm (169″) long, the EV2 is expected to be closer to 4,000 mm (157″) in length.
Like Kia’s other electric vehicles, it will be based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, which also underpins its IONIQ series.
Kia’s CEO, Ho-Sung Song, told Autocar that the company plans to launch the EV2 in the UK with prices starting at about £25,000 ($32,000). Since that was a few years ago, plans could have changed. We will learn more soon. Check back for the latest.
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Voltpost, a startup that turns existing lampposts into EV chargers, has officially launched its first public charging site in Oak Park, Illinois. The curbside charger, installed in partnership with the Park District of Oak Park and utility ComEd, brings easy, affordable EV charging access right to the neighborhood.
Instead of building entirely new charging stations, Voltpost retrofits existing lampposts with a modular Level 2 charging platform. That means less construction, lower costs, and quicker deployment – Voltpost says its EV charger can be installed on a lamppost in minutes. It’s controlled via a mobile app, and it’s designed to serve public spaces like curbs and parking lots, as well as private locations like university campuses and apartment complexes.
“The deployment of a Voltpost charger in Oak Park will expand EV charging access for the local community and help catalyze the transition to sustainable transportation,” said Voltpost CEO and cofounder Jeffrey Prosserman. “This builds on our work in New York and Michigan, and it’s a step toward scaling our platform nationwide.”
Voltpost says its approach is more sustainable and equitable, since it’s using infrastructure that’s already there instead of building from scratch. And it opens up EV charging to more people who don’t have a private driveway or garage.
Kassie Porreca, president of the Park District Board of Commissioners, said, “Ensuring the residents of Oak Park benefit from affordable access to EV charging infrastructure is vital to fulfilling our commitment to serving the needs of our community.”
Najwa Abouhassan, senior manager at ComEd and a liaison for the 2c2i climate tech initiative, said this project connects innovation with community impact. “We’re proud to support Voltpost’s mission to bring sustainable, street-level charging to the places people live and work.”
With this first public site now live, Voltpost says it’s aiming to expand across the country, turning more streetlights into smart charging hubs for EV drivers.
In 2023, Voltpost participated in the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Studio program, a collaboration between the NYC DOT and Newlab. In its pilot, Voltpost installed chargers on lampposts at Newlab in Brooklyn and in a DOT parking lot. The chargers were installed in an hour, operated with a high uptime, and got positive feedback from EV drivers.
Read more: This lamppost EV charger just went commercial in the US
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