Hyundai has
revealed its engineering teams have attempted to set new land speed records
with the Nexo and Sonata Hybrid at the Bonneville Salt Flats on September 25th.
The vehicles were driven by senior powertrain engineer Dean Schlingmann and
were modified for the attempt.
The Nexo attempted
a land speed record for the hydrogen fuel cell category of 170.848
km/h. It was lightly modified as the only exterior changes were the
installation of a custom wrap and a “high-speed under-bumper aero valence.”
The crossover was
also outfitted with an assortment of safety features including an FIA-approved
chromoly roll cage and a Sparco ERGO safety seat with a six-point harness.
Other safety related items included window and arm restraint nets as well as a
fire suppression system.
Likewise, the
Sonata Hybrid attempted a land speed record for the gas electric hybrid
category of 265.009 km/h. However, the vehicle was extensively
modified as it featured a host of upgrades.
Starting under the
hood, the engine was equipped with a custom exhaust header and a bespoke 76 mm exhaust system from Injen Technology. The model was also outfited with
a Nitrous Express Maximizer EZ controller, dual nitrous tanks and a “wet” fuel
rail solenoid package. The car also used race fuel and run custom powertrain
software.
The modifications
don’t end there as the team also installed a strut, shock and spring package
from KW Suspensions and a high-performance braking system. The model was also
equipped with Vision Rally 55 race wheels that were wrapped in Goodyear Eagle
land speed tires and covered by aerodynamic moon discs.
Lastly, engineers
installed many of the same safety features as used on the Nexo. However, given
the higher speeds, they also added a parachute. The land speed record vehicles
will be shown at SEMA next month and their records are still pending approval.
