Despite offering a full EV lineup in Europe, Hyundai’s performance N subline won’t move away from gas entirely. The sub-brand is expected to gain access to future hybrid and EREV powertrains from Hyundai. Meanwhile, Kia is going EV-only with its performance GT lineup.

Hyundai N Performance Line Quickly Evolving

Hyundai’s performance division is evolving quickly, especially in Europe, where a growing lineup of EV-only models is ready to roll, starting with the Ioniq 5 N and soon to be joined by the Ioniq 6 N. However, Hyundai is not removing gas engines from its lineup entirely. The Elantra N is doing well in North America, but Europe is putting forth stricter emissions requirements.

The vice president of Hyundai N refuted the assumption that the division would go EV-only. Despite focusing on certain EV models like the Ioniq 6, Hyundai doesn’t plan to limit itself to EVs. The VP added that they’re open to exploring many ideas, including hybrids and more.

New Hybrids and EREVs Coming

Even though Hyundai’s gas vehicles won’t be relegated to used cars just yet, the automaker has a variety of hybrids and EREV (extended range electric vehicle) systems coming. Not all of these will be suitable for the Hyundai N division, but it seems like the direction is clear. Hyundai wants to complement its growing battery EV lineup and reduce reliance on charging infrastructure.

Hyundai kicked off the N sub-brand with the launch of the i30 N in 2017. The i30 N was an exciting hot hatchback that set the tone for the next range of N models. Since then, the N line has added models for the i20, Kona, Veloster, Elantra, and Ioniq 5. The Ioniq 6 is preparing to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to showcase an all-electric N car.

Yet another model positioned to join the lineup in the future is a production version of the Vision N 74 Concept. This car would feature a hydrogen-electric hybrid setup that makes 670 horsepower. However, it’s not certain that this would end up as a road production car.

EREV Ambitions

There’s a case to be made for EREVs as well, and Hyundai is considering investing in more of those. EREV models offer a similar driving experience to an EV, but they have more range. The first range-extender could come with the Genesis GV70 for the North American market, but that hasn’t been confirmed yet.

What makes EREVs special? The answer lies in the combination of EV driving, like instant torque, and a quiet cabin with a longer range. Essentially, it’s a more modern hybrid. You can use it like an EV for short trips and commuting, but if you don’t want to plan a road trip around charging stations, you can still get seamless driving with the internal combustion engine generating electricity.

The other perk of EREVs is power for towing. The energy to tow is something that still plagues regular EVs. The new technology is an exciting development that Hyundai is likely to invest in with at least some of its product line.