Electric supercars are facing a dilemma – they’re not much more powerful than a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. As performance and speed, once reserved for the ultra-wealthy, are now accessible in an affordable hatchback at your local Hyundai dealership, it begs the question: who will still want to buy electric supercars?
When Power Becomes “Democratic”
Premium customers always seek something special – something that the masses can’t have. But the electrification trend is democratizing the most coveted aspect of supercars: power.
With internal combustion engines, the additional cost of a high-performance car is ‘understandable’ – as gasoline models often link performance and power to factors like cylinder count or turbocharging. Substantial performance upgrades, even minor ones, are priced highly, creating a sense of “exclusivity.” And that’s what the speed enthusiasts and the wealthy pursue.
However, the electric drivetrain has entirely shattered this notion.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N showcases how electric vehicles are challenging the traditional appeal of supercars by offering comparable performance at a more accessible price point.
Nowadays, if an automaker wants to launch a new electric supercar, it has to be faster than a mainstream electric hatchback. With the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds at a price of around $68,000, is it worth spending an additional $150,000 to shave off just 0.5 seconds?
Probably not.
“Speed is becoming commonplace, no longer a differentiator.”
Some electric supercar buyers might be interested in a longer range. But this, too, will soon become a non-issue as charging infrastructure and battery technology advance.
It’s true that many current EVs are limited in their top speed or performance to protect the battery. But these are temporary constraints – technology will soon surpass them.
Electric cars aren’t just about battery-powered vehicles – they represent a fundamental shift: what was once exclusive to supercars is now within reach of the average consumer.
The Ioniq 5 N delivers 641 horsepower and costs less than $70,000. If you don’t need to travel excessively far on a single charge (221 miles), Hyundai offers a smaller battery option – the car will be lighter, faster, cheaper, and… more efficient.
Not to mention that, in the not-so-distant future, software updates could allow any car to mimic the sound, feel, or response of another vehicle – as simple as downloading an app.
So, how do electric supercars establish their differentiation and superiority?
Supercar Enthusiasts Crave Emotion – Not Just Performance
Tony Roma, head of the Corvette project, once shared: “An electric Corvette has to be ‘fun’ in a new way because 0-60 mph acceleration times are now almost meaningless.”
Roma isn’t alone in this sentiment. Mate Rimac, founder of the electric hypercar manufacturer Rimac, also acknowledged the challenge of selling their Nevera model. Brands like Koenigsegg and Pagani have similarly noted a lack of enthusiasm from their customers for electric supercars.
Why? Because electric cars lack character – they have no sound, no smell, no vibration like internal combustion engines. These elements form the love for cars – though, admittedly, they are also manifestations of inefficiency.
In my opinion, internal combustion engines offer a very human experience – not just in their performance but also in the emotions, history, and mechanical intricacy they evoke. From the roaring sound as the revs climb, the subtle scent of fuel in the air, to the decisive gear shifts – they all come together to create a mechanical symphony that no digital technology can perfectly replicate.
The comparison with watches is also apt. A smart watch or phone can display the time accurately to the second. But a handcrafted mechanical watch – like an Omega, Rolex, or Patek Philippe – retains its special status due to the story behind the brand, the craftsmanship, and its timeless value. Ferrari, BMW, and Porsche carry similar values – what makes them icons, not just a means of transportation.
In the future, electric cars will undoubtedly dominate mainstream transportation. But in the world of sports cars – where emotions and identity are central – internal combustion engines won’t disappear. On the contrary, they will become more precious, cherished as mechanical masterpieces in an increasingly digital world.
The shift to electric may not dim the allure of traditional sports cars; instead, it might further highlight their enduring value. A value that transcends technology and stands the test of time.
The Most Powerful Electric Car from Hyundai Arrives in Vietnam, But Not for Sales
The Ioniq 5 N, a highly anticipated vehicle, made its debut in Vietnam at the Hyundai Experience Day 2024. This exclusive event offered a unique opportunity for automotive enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of the future of mobility. With its sleek design and innovative features, the Ioniq 5 N promises an exhilarating driving experience, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance.
The Malaysian Prince’s New Toy: A Fuel-Efficient Rolls-Royce with a Mighty 577 Horsepower.
The car collection of Tunku Idris Iskandar Ismail is estimated to exceed 100 vehicles, with a particular affinity for Rolls-Royces. It comes as no surprise, then, that the Prince of Johor has recently taken to social media to showcase his newest acquisition: the Rolls-Royce Spectre. This latest addition to his impressive fleet is a testament to his discerning taste and passion for automotive excellence.
High-performance Hyundai Ioniq 5 debuts in Southeast Asia
The high-performance electric vehicle Hyundai Ioniq 5 N combines the power of a supercar with cutting-edge technology. It boasts an impressive acceleration time of 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, rivaling even the fastest sports cars on the market. But that’s not all. This extraordinary car is packed with a range of special features that elevate the driving experience to new heights. From advanced safety features to state-of-the-art infotainment systems, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and luxurious. Get ready to unleash the power and experience the thrill of this exceptional electric vehicle.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N 2025: Powerful Electric Vehicle Launches in US Market
Hyundai’s high-performance N division introduces its inaugural all-electric model, an extraordinary car that harnesses the power of two electric motors to deliver an impressive combined power output of 641 horsepower. With an 84 kWh battery pack, this vehicle is ready to conquer the roads with its electrifying performance.