Hyundai's N Vision 74, a concept vehicle that electrified onlookers when it debuted in 2022, is set to become a production reality.
The South Korean automaker confirmed its plans during its recent 2024 CEO Investor Day, sending ripples of excitement throughout the enthusiast space.
Electric dream takes shape
In a detailed presentation about the company's future plans, Hyundai revealed that the N Vision 74 will be part of its ambitious goal to launch 21 new electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030.
Listed under planned N and Genesis models, the N Vision 74 is described as a "high-performance EV". This announcement puts an end to years of speculation and conflicting reports about the concept's future.
While Hyundai has not provided specific details about the production model, the company's commitment to "provide customers with a wide range of options for mass-market to luxury/high-performance models" from its EV range is promising.
From hydrogen to electric
The original N Vision 74 concept featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 62.4kWh battery pack with a hydrogen fuel tank to power electric motors producing a combined 500kW and 900Nm of torque.
However, the slide from Hyundai's presentation makes no mention of hydrogen fuel tanks for any of its future EVs, suggesting that the production N Vision 74 may be an all-electric vehicle.
Halo car status
While the final specifications remain under wraps, reports from Korea suggest that Hyundai plans to build 200 road-going examples of the N Vision 74, with production potentially starting in June 2026.
Each unit is expected to cost in excess of US$300,000 (around NZ$480,000), positioning the N Vision 74 as a halo car for the brand.
Interestingly, Hyundai's decision to produce the N Vision 74 seems to contradict the views of Albert Biermann, the executive technical advisor and mastermind behind the N brand.
In a February interview, Biermann expressed his reservations about building the car, stating that the N brand's focus should be on creating affordable and track-capable cars for enthusiasts, not "show cars".
Despite Biermann's concerns, Hyundai's decision to bring the N Vision 74 to life signals a bold step towards an electrified future. The production model promises to be a technological showcase, pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation.
While we eagerly await further details about the N Vision 74, one thing is certain: Hyundai is committed to electrifying its lineup, and the future looks bright for performance EV enthusiasts.
