Just in. Japanese drift king Keiichi Tsuchiya takes to the wheel of a modified Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and provides some great insights as he pushes the car to its limits.
In Part 1 of a multi-part video series uploaded on the Hyundai N YouTube channel, the professional racer acknowledges the base car as a fine performance electric vehicle but sees potential to make it even more fun to drive by his standards.
Tsuchiya, also nicknamed DK (Drift King or Dorikin in Japanese), hooked up with Hyundai N for a development project aimed at customising the vehicle to create the DK Edition.
To enhance the performance of the original electronically controlled suspension, lowering springs were incorporated to achieve an optimal balance of roll, yaw, and weight transfer for stability and precision during cornering.
Upgrades were made to several components, including the fitment of high-strength duralumin brake calipers. Additional pistons, an expanded braking surface, and heat-resistant brake pads improved braking performance under demanding conditions, ensuring reliability, extended durability, and enhanced control.
Rear brake pad enhancements also contributed to consistent pitching stability.
These refinements culminated in the “DK Edition,” combining Hyundai N’s engineering chops with a distinctive personal touch, creating a remarkable high-performance EV.
The DK Edition for IONIQ 5 N is showcased at the Jan 10-12 Tokyo Auto Salon.
