Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Spec Shatters EV Lap Record At Tsukuba Circuit

In an outstanding demonstration of electric vehicle (EV) capability, Hyundai has reached a new achievement with its IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Spec has established a new benchmark for EV performance at Japan’s legendary Tsukuba Circuit.

Record Lap at Attack Tsukuba 2025

During the Attack Tsukuba 2025 event on February 15, Japanese racing driver Nobuteru Taniguchi piloted the specially-tuned EV to an unprecedented lap time of 57.446 seconds, outpacing the nearest electric competitor by nearly two seconds. Notably, the record-setting vehicle maintained most of its production components, including critical systems such as motors, batteries, and control electronics. Through careful software optimization, Hyundai’s engineers enhanced the TA Spec variant to deliver 687 PS (677 horsepower), representing a 37 PS increase in rear motor power compared to the standard IONIQ 5 N.

Key Upgrades for Peak Performance

The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec success builds upon its already remarkable racing pedigree, following its victory at the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the modified production electric SUV category. To achieve its record-breaking performance at Tsukuba, the TA Spec was equipped with several targeted upgrades, including advanced shock absorbers, motorsport-grade brakes, and high-performance Yokohama ADVAN 005 slick tires. The vehicle also features a comprehensive aerodynamic package and essential safety modifications such as a roll cage and fire suppression system.

“The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec’s handling characteristics truly impressed me,” Taniguchi remarked after his record-setting run. “Despite its considerable power output, the vehicle maintained exceptional control, allowing for confident cornering and stable acceleration out of turns.”

Hyundai’s EV Performance Commitment

Moreover, this achievement carries major implications for Hyundai’s presence in Japan’s expanding EV market. Joon Park, Head of N Management Group, emphasized on the record stating, “The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec’s new record, using primarily production components, is not only a significant milestone that validates our technological prowess, but also demonstrates Hyundai N’s commitment to bringing high performance EVs deeper into global car culture through events such as Attack Tsukuba.”

Coinciding with this milestone, Hyundai Mobility Japan is broadening its EV lineup in the Japanese market. The company recently introduced the INSTER sub-compact electric SUV and unveiled the IONIQ 5 N DK Edition, a special variant developed in collaboration with Autobacs Seven and legendary driver Keiichi Tsuchiya, known as the “Drift King.” The DK Edition’s performance parts package will soon be available to IONIQ 5 N customers, offering enhanced capabilities for both road and track use.

Read More: Hyundai Opens Pre-Orders For IONIQ 5 N DK Edition: A Track-Ready EV Built For Performance

With this record-setting performance at Tsukuba, it not only solidifies Hyundai’s position in the high-performance EV segment but also signals the growing maturity of EV technology in motorsport applications. As automakers continue to push the boundaries of EV performance, achievements like this indicate that the future of high-performance driving is increasingly electric.

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