Hyundai N Vision 74 Production Model Update
We haven’t been able to stop talking about the incredible Hyundai N Vision 74 concept vehicle since its debut last July. Enthusiasts have even gone as far as to present the case for Hyundai to push it into production. We may now be getting our wish, as it’s been reported Hyundai is planning to bring the N Vision 74 to reality as an all-new production model available for purchase soon.
Recent Developments
A report from an outlet called Money Today, picked up by Reddit and Motor1 in May of 2023, seemed very confident in its sources about the N Vision 74 getting the production green light. According to the translated article, the Korean automaker was planning a Hyundai “Pony Day” on May 27th at the company’s studio located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. At this event, Hyundai was expected to announce a production version of the N Vision 74, reportedly called the “Pony Coupe,” but that announcement never materialized.
Investor Day Presentation Insights
Now there’s an update over a year later. The N 74 appeared in Hyundai’s 2024 Investor Day presentation slides under a list of upcoming high-performance EVs. While listed as an EV, it’s possible Hyundai could retain the Vision model’s hybrid hydrogen powertrain. Interestingly, the name showed up without the “Vision” moniker on a slide for future models, indicating potential confirmation of its production. However, we wonder if it will be limited to a short production run or receive a full production cycle.
Historical Context and Design Inspirations
The Hyundai N Vision 74 is based on a 1974 concept car called the Pony, with an original design by Giorgetto Giugiaro that was displayed at the 1974 Turin Motor Show in Italy. While the Pony hatchback enjoyed a full production run, the coupe never got past the concept stage—until now. The N Vision 74 draws influence from several other vehicles, particularly the DeLorean DMC 12. Moreover, it is an incredibly modern concept, utilizing technologies and styling cues from existing Hyundai production vehicles, particularly echoing the futuristic design of the Ioniq 5 hatch.
Powertrain Features and Specs
The Vision model’s advanced 800-volt architecture is adopted from Hyundai’s current EV lineup, with hydrogen tanks sourced from the Hyundai Nexo fuel cell vehicle. The powertrain configuration can be described as a “hydrogen hybrid” setup, featuring a hydrogen fuel cell in front and storage tanks in the rear, paired with a 62.4 kWh T-shaped battery pack that powers two rear electric motors. This innovative system allows for fast charging capabilities, enabling the battery to recharge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. Notably, the system produces a robust output of 580 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, offering a remarkable range of over 370 miles while achieving 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4 seconds.
Market Considerations
If hydrogen fuel capability remains part of the production N 74 Coupe, it is likely to have limited marketability in the U.S., where hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure is not widespread outside of California. However, the production version could take on a dramatically different form. It’s plausible that Hyundai might keep things relatively straightforward by placing the N Vision 74 design on a modified powertrain platform and producing it as a pure electric vehicle alongside the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Consequently, while uncertainties remain, the hope for its production continues to draw attention.
