When the Guinness World Information (GWR) guide was launched in 1955, the thought was to compile details and figures that would lastly settle typically limitless arguments within the U.Ok.’s many pubs.
It rapidly developed right into a yearly compilation of world information, large and small, together with final yr’s largest grilled cheese sandwich on the earth.
Issues received a bit of bit extra severe for Hyundai this yr: With the GWR’s 2024 theme being the “Blue Planet” and an emphasis on the pure world, the South Korean automaker determined to set a brand new world file for the best altitude change skilled by an electrical car (EV).
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To attain the file this December, Hyundai had an Ioniq 5 EV descend 19,035 toes throughout a greater than 3,000-mile journey throughout the Indian peninsula. Final yr, the file was set by China’s Changan Nevo A07 EV, which skilled an altitude change of 18,766 toes whereas touring almost 1,500 miles by means of Tibet.
The Ioniq 5’s journey began within the Himalayas at India’s highest drivable level in Umling La in Leh Ladakh, positioned 19,025 toes above sea stage. The journey completed in Kuttanad, Kerala, which is 9.8 toes beneath sea stage.
Throughout two weeks, the Hyundai EV traveled by means of harsh terrain and excessive climate circumstances, together with freezing temperatures and steep mountain passes, in addition to humid coastal areas.
“This achievement is a testomony to Hyundai’s unwavering dedication to innovation, technological excellence, and sustainability,” mentioned Unsoo Kim, managing director of Hyundai Motor India, in a press release. “The Ioniq 5’s efficiency in such excessive circumstances displays its engineering prowess and sturdiness.”
The Ioniq 5 is supplied with a 72.6 kWh battery, offering a driving vary of over 300 miles.
The file was set simply because the 2025 Ioniq 5 began being delivered within the U.S. The brand new mannequin would be the first to function a North American Charging Commonplace (NACS) port. Utilizing a Tesla SuperCharger, the fundamental Ioniq 5 mannequin can cost the battery from 10% to 80% in 24 minutes.