Hyundai Sonata and Nexo attempted for land speed record

Two eco-friendly vehicles were observed at the Bonneville Salt Flats recently with a target to attempt land speed records. Yes, we are talking about the Hyundai Sonata and Nexo, both tried to hit two separate records in the US state of Utah on September 25, 2019.

The vehicles were modified for the high-speed thrills by adding unique equipment to ensure their readiness for the attempt. The Nexo was fitted with high-speed under-bumper aero valence and loaded with an assortment of safety features like Sparco Ergo safety seat with a six-point safety harness, safety cage, fire suspension system, and window and arm restraint safety nets. The modified Nexo was able to hit the top speed of 170.85 kmph in the hydrogen fuel-cell category.

While the Hyundai Sonata was extensively modified for the purpose. Under the skin, the engine bay gets a bespoke exhaust header and a custom 3 inch (76 mm) exhaust system from Injen Technology. The drivetrain was also equipped with a Nitrous Express Maximizer EZ controller, dual nitrous tanks and a “wet” fuel rail solenoid package. Moreover, it is loaded by a new engine software and race fuel.

Besides engine configuration, the modified Sonata also features:

• Narrow Goodyear Eagle 28x1.5-15 tyres with Vision Rally 55 race wheels 
• Mooneyes moon disc covers
• KW Suspensions package
• Bespoke high-speed brakes

The loaded Sonata hit a top speed of 265.01 kmph in the petrol-electric category. Both the speed machines were decked up in special blue, white and red graphics and attempts were made by the senior powertrain engineer Dean Schlingmann. As for now, the records are yet to be verified by FIA. 

Hyundai has planned to showcase its greenest vehicles at the 2019 SEMA show in Las Vegas scheduled for the next month.

Also read: 2021 Hyundai Tucson spied, seems to be more handsome than before