A highly-modified Ioniq hybrid prototype, developed by Hyundai Motor America’s Engineering and Quality team, set a FIA-approved production-based-hybrid vehicle land speed record of 157.825 mph. Exit speed was 160.7 mph at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats.
The Ioniq is Hyundai’s newest hybrid model, with hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains to be available. Ioniq hybrid and electric models go on sale in the U.S. in late 2016. (see Triumph Land Speed Record Attempt Fails)
“Our engineering team really pushed the limits to set this new segment benchmark while demonstrating the impressive durability of the entire Ioniq vehicle platform,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Corporate and Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America.
Modifications
Powertrain
- Low-restriction intake and exhaust systems with retained catalyst
- Engine, transmission, and hybrid ECU re-calibrated and governors removed
- Air conditioning and ancillary accessories removed
- Single-stage direct-port nitrous injection with stand-alone fuel system, cockpit-controlled
Aerodynamics / Lightweighting
- Ioniq Electric model front grille and valance integration
- Underbody and air dam aerodynamic modifications
- Interior components removed or lightened
Suspension
- Coil-over suspension with optimized spring, damping and sway bar rates and ride height lowered 100mm
- Lightweight aero wheels and wheel covers with Goodyear Eagle tires
Safety
- Fully-integrated high-strength safety cage structure
- 6-point safety harness system, racing seat, and driver safety gear
- On-board fire-suppression system, battery disconnects and parachute
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn.
He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe.
Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap.
AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks.
Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.
