Hyundai launches 'N' performance sub-brand

Named after Hyundai's R&D facility in Namyang, South Korean, the 'N' brand will be used to symbolize company's high performance technology, not just on the rally car but also future mass-produced high performance cars for the road. Along with announcing the new 'N' brand, Hyundai also introduced its new i20 WRC car, which is also the first car to bear the 'N' branding.

The 2014 WRC is based on the Hyundai i20 and will start competing in the Monte Carlo rally next month.

Having revealed the new brand and its first car under it, this Korean automaker hasn't revealed any further details on which those road cars might be, but promises to transfer lessons it learns from the rally stage to the marketplace.

A range of new performance cars will also become part of the sub-brand. It is unclear whether these will be new vehicles or if Hyundai will choose to modify existing models.

Commenting on the announcement in Frankfurt, Gyoo-Heon Choi, Hyundai motorsport president said, "This is the start of a new chapter in Hyundai's history, one that we expect to have a positive impact on our brand around the globe."