Evasive Motorsports, a name synonymous with blistering time attack runs in souped-up Hondas and Mitsubishis, is embarking on an exciting new adventure. For the 2025 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, they’re making a significant switch, trading in their Tesla for a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – a move that signals a thrilling return to their import roots.
Hyundai’s N Division: From Track to Road
Hyundai’s commitment to motorsports is something truly special. Their N Division isn’t just a marketing ploy; it’s a philosophy. They rigorously test their performance vehicles, like the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, on the track, then pour that hard-earned knowledge directly into their road cars. This year, the Ioniq 5 N is poised to conquer the legendary Pikes Peak, with none other than Southern California’s renowned tuning powerhouse, Evasive Motorsports, at the helm.
This isn’t Evasive’s first rodeo at the “Race to the Clouds” with an EV. This stripped-down, caged, and fully kitted-out Ioniq 5 N is the highly anticipated successor to the 2022 Tesla Model 3 they previously campaigned.
The Blueprint for Speed: Chasing the 10-Minute Barrier
The objective for 2025 remains the same as it was in 2022 with the Tesla: shatter the elusive 10-minute barrier. Fortunately, Evasive’s strategy for the Hyundai largely mirrors their successful approach with the Model 3, starting with a rigorous weight-loss program. The Ioniq 5 N undergoes a drastic diet, shedding its entire interior, stock doors, and tailgate, all replaced by feather-light carbon-fiber components.
Next, the Ioniq 5 N gains serious grip with a set of lightweight forged Titan 7 T-P10 wheels (19×11 inch fitment) wrapped in sticky Yokohama Advan A005 race slicks. To ensure maximum aerodynamic efficiency in the thinning mountain air, EVS Tuning (Evasive Motorsports’ tuner parts brand) adds a set of sleek aero discs. Tucked behind these discs are CounterSpace Garage brake pads paired with Endless brake fluid, providing immense stopping power for the descent. All told, the Evasive Motorsports team expertly shaves 500 pounds from the Ioniq 5 N’s original 4,851-pound curb weight.
The new wheels extend so far beyond the original fenders that Evasive was compelled to integrate a stunning custom body kit. Leveraging their close relationship with prominent aerodynamics builder Voltex, Evasive supplied a 3D model of the 5 N, allowing Voltex to craft a bespoke carbon-fiber front lip and splitter, side skirts, aggressive fender flares, new underbody aero, and a commanding rear wing.
Precision Engineering and Driver Synergy
For lightning-fast tire changes, a set of Krontec air jacks effortlessly lift the car, eliminating the need for a traditional pump jack and reducing the risk of accidental damage. Underneath the Hyundai, custom Moton coilovers, designed in a remarkably short timeframe by legendary suspension tuner Mike Kojima, ensure optimal handling. These are complemented by EVS Tuning anti-roll bars.
Driver Rob Walker will be securely nestled in a Sparco QRT-C carbon fiber seat, protected by a robust Eimer Engineering six-point roll cage. Finally, the Ioniq 5 N, adorned with its new aerodynamic enhancements, is wrapped in the striking N Division livery scheme, ready to tackle the legendary mountain.
There’s a touch of serendipity in Walker’s selection as driver. He was already in the market for a new high-performance EV daily driver and had the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N firmly on his radar. A call from Evasive Motorsports co-owner, Mike Chang, sealed the deal. Walker purchased an Ioniq 5 N and has since been honing his skills at the equally legendary Buttonwillow Raceway, taking full advantage of Hyundai’s access to the Tesla Supercharger network nearby. This personal ownership and extensive seat time mean Walker possesses far more than a casual familiarity with the 2025 Ioniq 5 N Pikes Peak International Hill Climb racer he’ll be piloting in the EV class this year.
Want to witness history in the making? Mark your calendars! The 2025 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is set for June 22, 2025.
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