Hyundai Working on 'More Realistic' N-Branded EVsMarc Urbano - Car and DriverHyundai wants its next generation of electric N cars to be even sillier and have "even more realistic" internal-combustion traits, according to an Autocar report.Manfred Harrer, Hyundai's global head of R&D, told the outlet that the next-gen N-branded EVs could feature idling, backfiring, and cabin vibrations.The future electric N cars will ride on Hyundai's upcoming Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA), which is slated to replace the current E-GMP platform.The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N already belts out a series of pops and bangs akin to a Looney Tunes soundboard, with fake engine noises that rise and fall with the car's simulated rev limiter. But Hyundai's future N-branded EVs could be even better at mimicking their gas-powered counterparts, according to a new report by Autocar. That's not to say they won't be just as silly and fun, Manfred Harrer, Hyundai's global head of research and development, reportedly explained.Andi Hedrick - Car and DriverThe executive's comments came during a conversation about the next generation of the N division's electric cars. "We are leading—we are not following—on this technology," Harrer told Autocar. "In the next generation of these cars, I want to make it even more realistic. I want to enhance it further."AdvertisementAdvertisementWhile he declined to nail down the specifics of exactly how the N division is planning to enhance the experience, Harrer did suggest a few examples of changes. According to the report, the executive brought up idling, backfiring exhausts, and vibrations in the car as potential characteristics that would improve engagement."There are so many ideas on how you can advance it further, but this is all about experience," Harrer said. "A lot of people say it's fake, but people like it, so there is some beauty—and why not play around with it?" Harrer explained that the team behind Hyundai's N subbrand is more focused on drivers having fun than outright racetrack pace. "We are not the serious Porsche guys. We are fun to drive. We made a great movement, and over the years we will enhance it—and the next platform gets this. The demos are already running."HyundaiThat next platform that Harrer mentioned is Hyundai's upcoming Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA), which is slated to supplant the E-GMP platform that currently underpins the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N. While there's currently no timeline for when the IMA platform will arrive, Harrer said it will utilize "next-generation 800-volt technology" to provide even faster charging speeds and better thermal management. "It's not a revolution like the first generation. It's a huge evolution."➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029