Recently we were invited to bring our Veloster N TCR cars to Hyundai’s Proving Grounds in the California desert. Drivers Michael Lewis and Harry Gottsacker were on hand to give members of the Automotive press ride-alongs in our TCR cars and Mason Filippi had the opportunity to drive Hyundai’s mid-engine RM19 prototype.
In Mason’s Words
“I had the amazing opportunity to drive the Hyundai RM19 around the test track at Hyundai’s Proving Grounds. All I can say is wow…it was balanced and powerful with amazing brakes. I could really feel the car and it was amazing to drive a mid-engine TCR powered Hyundai.
The RM19 has 390 Horsepower and a sequential transmission that puts the power down on some huge 305mm Pirelli P Zeros. The balance while going through the esses, was incredible and I could really feel the car with how direct the steering was.
It was especially fun to drive the section of the track were the cone chicanes; I was able to stomp on the brakes incredibly late and bring the car down to first gear while flicking it around the chicane.
It was a car guy’s dream, the steering feel, brakes, mid engine and I can’t forget that induction noise right behind my head. I really enjoyed my few laps in the RM19 and I hope to get more. I am thankful for the opportunity and I am still dreaming about driving that awesome machine.”
