Subscribe
E-Paper
 |
| The Hyundai Motor Veloster N high-performance hatchbacks run on a circuit in this file photo. The carmaker will allow entry-level racers to participate in the Veloster N Cup which will be held in 2019. / Courtesy of Hyundai Motor |
By Park Jae-hyuk
Hyundai Motor will host affordable auto racing for entry-level racers during the first Veloster N Cup next spring, so more drivers can enjoy motorsports, the nation's leading automaker said Sunday.
The carmaker's one-make racing in which all drivers race its high-performance hatchback will include two competitions ― one for entry-level and another for skilled amateurs.
Hyundai plans to heat up motorsports fever in this country by holding the event for entry-level drivers first.
The company said owners of the Veloster N can participate in the event if their cars underwent minimum tuning that costs less than 4.6 million won ($4,068).
As they are only able to install roll cages in their cars and change tires and brake pads, performance of their tuned cars will be almost the same as production vehicles, according to Hyundai.
The automotive firm expects the event for entry-level racers will lower the barrier to motorsports and attract more people to car racing.
"The reason why we allow owners of minimally tuned cars to participate is that we took driving performances on both city streets and circuits into account while developing the high-performance N models," a Hyundai Motor official said.
After the event for entry-level, Hyundai will hold the event for experienced racers who can completely demonstrate the performance of the Veloster N to motorsport fans.
The participants will be able to upgrade their power trains, brakes, suspensions and bearings, as well as interiors and exteriors of their cars.
Hyundai said it will unveil details about the Veloster N Cup in November.
The company explained the event with three principles ― affordable, easy repairs and safety.
The Veloster N is Hyundai's first high-performance vehicle that hit the road in Korea.
Hyundai previously released the i30N hot hatch in Europe and Australia, winning huge success and garnering several medals in rallies worldwide.
