Hyundai Confirms Plans for New Performance Sub-Brand

Hyundai Motor Co. is preparing to launch a high-performance line in 2017 under a new "N" sub-brand,

Albert Biermann, who heads the company's performance operations, tells reporters at the Frankfurt auto show the long-rumored initiative will include a variety of body styles and engines, perhaps including crossover/SUV and hybrid variants. The line will target established performance marques such as Mercedes-Benz AMG and BMW M performance models, according to Biermann.

The N models are expected to get performance-oriented handling and aerodynamics inspired from Hyundai race cars. They also will feature new applications for lightweight materials and other enhancements that are "full of energy" and challenge consumer preconceptions about Hyundai, Biermann adds.

At Frankfurt, Hyundai showed three performance-oriented models: the next-generation i20 WRC Rally Car, RM15 concept car and the N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo, which was inspired by the popular Gran Turismo video game.

Biermann joined Hyundai in April to help the carmaker improve the performance and handling of its vehicles. He previously spent 30 years working for BMW, mostly recently as chief engineer for the company's M unit.