Electric vehicles are no longer just for city cruising—they’re making serious waves on the racetrack. At Malaysia’s first open-to-public EV track day, the SoyaCincau EV Clinic: Track Edition, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N turned heads by clocking an impressive 2:37.991 lap at Sepang International Circuit straight out of the box.
Driven by automotive influencer Amin Ashaari, the performance SUV showcased how EVs are evolving from silent city movers into track-ready thrill machines.
Unofficial Yet Impressive: Ioniq 5 N Lap Time
While the lap was recorded via an onboard device and not Sepang’s official transponder system, it still provides a strong glimpse of what the stock Ioniq 5 N can achieve. Key takeaways:
- Lap Time: 2:37.991
- Driver: Amin Ashaari (first time driving the car)
- Vehicle Condition: Completely stock—no suspension tweaks, no brake upgrades, standard tyres
For context, this made it the second fastest EV of the evening, behind only a modified Tesla Model 3 Performance from Exotic Mods, which posted a 2:34.344 lap using semi-slick tyres, coilovers, and a big brake kit.
Even in stock form, the Ioniq 5 N would have ranked 5th overall on Sepang’s official SIC timing sheet, sitting comfortably alongside established internal combustion engine (ICE) sports cars.
First Impressions on Track
Amin’s experience driving the Ioniq 5 N was limited to just five laps, yet the SUV handled the circuit with confidence. Highlights include:
- N e-Shift: Simulated gearshifts for a more engaging drive
- N Active Sound+: Engine-style audio that mimics the roar of a traditional sports car
- 0–100 km/h: 3.4 seconds
- Top Speed: 260 km/h
- Power: Up to 641hp and 770 Nm with N Grin Boost
Even without modifications, the Ioniq 5 N demonstrated that modern EVs are closing the performance gap with ICE rivals.
Malaysia’s EV Track Scene is Heating Up
The EV Clinic: Track Edition attracted nearly 30 participants, marking Malaysia’s first proper community-driven EV track day. The event highlighted the growing interest in EV performance among local enthusiasts.
Event support included:
- Tenaga Nasional
- EV Connection
- Tesmods
- F Tuned Racing
- Trapo
- MG Nizra Auto
- Sparklin
- On-site services: Autel battery health checks & EVC mobile DC fast chargers
This collaborative effort shows Malaysia’s EV ecosystem is more than just infrastructure it’s becoming a community of speed and innovation.
Why the Ioniq 5 N Stands Out
Compared to its rivals, the Ioniq 5 N offers an enticing mix of luxury, tech, and pure EV performance:
- Stock form capable of near-professional lap times
- Fully loaded with driver engagement tech like N e-Shift & N Active Sound+
- Competitive acceleration and torque rivaling supercars
- Stylish crossover design without sacrificing aerodynamics
“For a stock EV to perform like this on Sepang is a testament to how far electric performance has come. It’s no longer just about city driving; EVs are proving their mettle on track,” says automotive journalist Farid Azman.
What This Means for Malaysian EV Enthusiasts
EVs are now legitimate contenders in Malaysia’s performance scene. Whether you’re a weekend track warrior or a city driver wanting thrills, the Ioniq 5 N signals the beginning of a new era:
- EVs aren’t just for eco-conscious commuting—they’re performance machines.
- Stock vehicles can now compete with modified ICE cars on track.
- Community events like EV Clinic foster knowledge, networking, and excitement.
The Future of EVs in Malaysia
With limited units available in Malaysia (Sime Darby Auto Hyundai reportedly brought in just three Ioniq 5 N units, all via special order), the hype is real. Rumoured pricing sits under RM400k, making it an accessible entry point for enthusiasts who want both luxury and speed.
- The Ioniq 5 N proves stock EVs can deliver adrenaline-packed experiences.
- Modified EVs, like Tesla Model 3 Performance, show the potential ceiling for track performance.
- Community-driven events will likely boost interest in local EV performance culture.
“The EV revolution isn’t just coming it’s already on track, and vehicles like the Ioniq 5 N are leading the charge,” says Amin Ashaari, after completing his first laps at Sepang.
