Hyundai Commissioned Ioniq 5 N Rally Concept
Digital artist Khyzyl Saleem reimagined the electric vehicle as a high-performance Group B rally car.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Hyundai USA has unveiled a new digital concept featuring the Ioniq 5 N styled as a classic Group B rally machine. Designed by artist Khyzyl Saleem, the project explores potential future aesthetic directions for the brand.
Why it matters
The project serves as a commissioned design exercise to gauge enthusiast interest in performance-oriented styling. It bridges the gap between Hyundai's electric vehicle portfolio and its successful history in professional rally competition.
The concept integrates a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine alongside the Ioniq 5 N's dual-motor electric drivetrain. It features specialized carbon-fiber bodywork and wide fender flares, diverging from standard performance specifications.
The players
Khyzyl Saleem
A digital artist known for creating specialized automotive renderings and conceptual vehicle designs.
Hyundai USA
The American subsidiary of the South Korean automaker that commissioned this concept project.
Thierry Neuville
A professional rally driver who secured a WRC Drivers' title for Hyundai in 2025.
The details
Created using 3ds Max and Corona software, the render incorporates design elements from the legendary Lancia Delta S4, such as an angular greenhouse and flying buttresses. The vehicle also adopts powertrain components from the WRC i20 N Rally1 program.
Timeline
The original Group B rally series ran from 1982 to 1986.
Hyundai secured WRC Manufacturers' titles in 2019 and 2020.
Thierry Neuville earned a WRC Drivers' title in 2025.
Hyundai USA revealed a Baja-inspired Santa Fe render in August 2026.
The Ioniq 5 N Group B concept was published on September 16, 2026.
Roadmap
This render highlights a shift toward infusing high-performance electric vehicles with heritage-inspired motorsport aesthetics. By leveraging the technical legacy of the WRC i20 N Rally1 program, the manufacturer is testing how traditional rally culture can influence future EV branding.
While this concept is currently a digital render, it signals potential future design directions that may eventually influence production accessories or special edition models. Enthusiasts can track these design studies to understand how the brand might integrate racing aesthetics into consumer vehicles.
The takeaway
This concept demonstrates how automakers are using digital art to bridge the gap between historic combustion-engine motorsport and modern electric powertrains. Consumers can look for similar design collaborations as brands attempt to cultivate enthusiast loyalty for new EV platforms.
Further reading
Explore more about how manufacturers are shaping the future of battery-powered performance in our Electric Vehicles section.
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