The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is one of the most intense races out there. Climbing ever higher into the mountains, sheer drop-offs on the side of the road, it’s a genuinely scary route to drive — even moreso than you’d think from the cameras that dot the route. Luckily, we’ve got onboard cameras at record pace to show just how terrifying the Race to the Clouds is.
Hyundai sent a prepped Ioniq 5 N to Pikes Peak this past year in order to snag the modified electric crossover record. Dani Sordo, pilot of the Ioniq, took the car to the top pin just over nine minutes and 30 seconds — handily grabbign the record that Hyundai so desired.
The run video here includes plenty of views and angles, including some from outside the car, but my favorite by far is the on-the-splitter look at the road. Nothing but a bit of pavement ahead and clear blue sky above and to the sides — that’s the experience of driving Pikes Peak. You’re ever conscious of the altitude, of the cliffs to your sides, and of just how far down it is from your car.
This Ioniq 5 N run is a perfect view of just what makes Pikes Peak so special. It’s Friday, you’re not really working anyway — give it a watch. Then, start planning your airfare to see the climb for yourself next year.
