Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Smashes EV Record at Tsukuba Circuit – 57.446 Sec Lap

Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N has set a new benchmark in EV performance by recording the fastest lap for an electric vehicle at the ‘Attack Tsukuba 2025’ motorsport event in Japan on February 15. The event took place at the Tsukuba Circuit, a challenging track in Ibaraki Prefecture known for its tight corners and technical layout.

Competing with the specially tuned IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Spec, Hyundai N secured the record with professional Japanese driver Nobuteru Taniguchi behind the wheel. This achievement highlights Hyundai’s focus on high-performance electric mobility and its growing presence in competitive motorsport.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Spec, a race-focused version of the IONIQ 5 N, has a history of setting records. It previously claimed victory in the modified production electric SUV category at the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, breaking a record in the process. Despite its motorsport focus, the TA Spec stays true to the production model, with no major hardware changes. Instead, Hyundai has enhanced its performance through software tuning, increasing its power output to 687 PS. The rear motor alone receives an extra 37 PS, giving the TA Spec an edge over the standard IONIQ 5 N.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Spec comes equipped with several performance upgrades, including a high-decibel N Active Sound+ system, enhanced shock absorbers, motorsport-grade brakes, and 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN 005 slick tires. It also features an aerodynamic package for increased downforce, along with a Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans seat, a six-point safety harness, a roll cage built to Pikes Peak standards, and an EV fire suppression system.

With these enhancements, the car set a blistering lap time of 57.446 seconds at Tsukuba Circuit, making it the fastest EV to ever complete the track. Despite this achievement, the TA Spec retains key production components such as its motors, battery, and control electronics, further proving the capability of Hyundai’s performance EV technology.