Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Reaches 160 MPH in Utah

A race-prepared Hyundai Ioniq hybrid prototype reached a top speed of 160 mph at Utah's Bonneville Salt Flats and set a land-speed record in the hybrid category, Hyundai announced.

The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) approved a record of 157.825 mph with a peak exit speed of 160.7 mph for the prototype vehicle that was developed by Hyundai Motor America's engineering and quality team.

Hyundai will sell a trio of Ioniq models starting in late 2016 with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric powertrains.

To achieve the record, Hyundai engineers equipped the Ioniq with a nitrous-oxide boost and aerodynamics upgrades such as underbody and air dam modifications. The vehicle's engine, transmission and hybrid ECU were recalibrated and governors were removed. The air conditioning was removed.

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet