This is the Hyundai Veloster N ETCR, the Korean company's first-ever electric race car, and it has been revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Mid-engined, RWD, electric
It is based on the road-going Veloster N model, the Veloster being a model we no longer get in Europe but which is still sold in North America and various other markets, and this electric racer is designed specifically for the ETCR (Electric Touring Car Racing) championship which will debut in 2020. It develops the competitive i30 N TCR and Veloster N TCR packages, only there's no combustion engine onboard.
So, a mid-mounted electric motor drives the Veloster N ETCR's rear wheels only. Design work began in November 2018, with the first shakedowns of the prototype taking place this August. A full test programme will commence after the Veloster's IAA debut, with two N ETCRs due to compete in the 2020 season. Hyundai says the project will run alongside its commitments to the World Rally Championship (WRC), where it competes an i20.
Turbo triple
Thomas Schemera, head of Product Division and executive vice-president of Hyundai Motor Group, said: "Today, we have experienced another special milestone in the history of Hyundai Motorsport. We are proud to reveal the Hyundai Veloster N ETCR, our first electric race car, designed specifically for ETCR regulations. We have been anticipating this moment for some time and we are thrilled to open this exciting new chapter for our company.
"Through our successful Customer Racing division, we have spent many years honing our skills in touring car racing, which has resulted in two packages capable of competing for championships around the world. ETCR is the natural next step in our journey, and one that aligns perfectly to Hyundai's global strategy for electric vehicle production.
"We have a detailed test programme for the Veloster N ETCR, supported by the fully trained and experienced team of engineers at Hyundai Motorsport; we can't wait to see the car in action for the first time. The Veloster N ETCR will make an ideal addition to our ongoing commitment to WRC and to customer racing through the i20 R5, i30 N TCR and Veloster N TCR."