Genesis Newsroom: Official Global Media Site

[PART 1] A DECADE OF VISION: THE 10 MOST ICONIC GENESIS CONCEPT CARS

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:03:00 +0900

SEOUL, July 30, 2025 — Under the dazzling lights of the 2025 New York International Auto Show, Genesis revealed a daring leap into unchartered territory when it unveiled the X Gran Equator Concept. As the marque’s first adventure vehicle concept, it embraces the rugged spirit of overlanding, combining luxury with the thrill of the unknown.

The X Gran Equator Concept’s design tells a story of transformation. Its exterior, with clean lines, dark wheel arch cladding and 24-inch beadlock wheels, signals a readiness to tackle the wild. Geometric auxiliary lamps and a split-opening tailgate merge innovation with practicality, anchored by Genesis’ signature Two-Line headlamps. It’s a concept built to move seamlessly between sophistication and adventure.

But this concept is more than a standalone statement. It builds on over a decade of groundbreaking concept cars, each a bold step in Genesis’ evolution. These vehicles are more than creative exercises — they are foundational to the brand, expressing their distinctly Korean roots, technological ambitions and daring redefinition of luxury.

In this two-part series, join us as we dive into the most iconic Genesis concept cars of the past decade — 10 remarkable designs that have challenged conventions, captured imaginations and offered glimpses into the brand’s exciting trajectory.

1. Genesis Essentia Concept

The Essentia Concept is a grand tourer (GT) concept that boldly expanded the boundaries of Genesis’ design philosophy. Revealed at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018, it marked Genesis’ debut into the electric vehicle (EV)-based high-performance GT segment as the brand’s first battery EV. This concept car embodied the vision of a cutting-edge, all-electric luxury coupé. More than just a design study, the Essentia was a statement of intent, demonstrating Genesis’ ambition to create thrilling, beautiful EVs that blend advanced technology with passionate and progressive design.

The Essentia Concept’s exterior masterfully reinterpreted Genesis’ “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy, featuring a carbon-fiber monocoque with a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and a low roofline, long hood and swept-back cabin. These elements are connected by the iconic Parabolic Line that gracefully runs along the shoulder of the car through to the muscular rear wheel arches. Dramatic butterfly doors enable effortless and elegant access to the vehicle. The rear of the car features an aerodynamic cut-off surface that houses the flush rear quad lamps and emphasizes the muscles of the rear haunch.

Inside, the cabin’s underlying design theory maximizes the connection between the car and driver. A mixed-material approach influenced by high fashion and classic color combinations includes cognac leather seats with chevron quilting. The driver and front seat passenger are divided by a slim center console covered in Oxford Blue leather that bisects the cabin. In front of the driver is an 8-inch widescreen display with piano black surround that displays only the information that is necessary for driving.

2. Genesis Mint Concept

The Mint Concept, unveiled at the 2019 New York International Auto Show in April, reimagined the concept of a luxury urban EV. The compact two-door, two-seater concept – a new typology – was designed for contemporary urban metropolises and demonstrated that luxury is not linked to size. The Mint Concept emphasized lightweight design and an intelligent, efficient electric powertrain, showcasing Genesis’ ability to think beyond traditional luxury segments and address future urban mobility needs.

With its clean, elegant surfaces, the organic exterior design is characterized by restraint and refinement. Features like the quad lamps that transport the brand’s Two Lines signature, G-Matrix graphics and Parabolic Line were carried over into production vehicles later. It is painted in Hunter Green matte, a nod towards traditional luxury cars, but more modern and fashionable. The most distinctive aspect is its innovative scissor-style openings that give side access to a generous parcel shelf in lieu of a traditional trunk. This design was created to facilitate loading the car in a more logical fashion, from the sidewalk, without blocking the walkway or needing to go around the back of the vehicle.

The interior was one of the first instances where the company showcased its “Beauty of White Space” interior design philosophy. Derived from a Korean aesthetic in which design is pared back and minimalistic, it brings a sense of calmness and expansiveness to the cabin. This is accomplished by structuring the interior to feel like a living space through craftsmanship, using lightweight textiles, cognac leather and mullion-free windows. Additionally, the center console can be folded, making the floating front bench into a settee. A small gauge cluster sits within the steering wheel further amplifying the feeling of space, while six small, copper-lined touchscreen readouts allow instinctive commands without losing sight of the road or contact with the steering wheel.

3. Genesis X Trilogy

The X Trilogy, revealed one at a time in succession, comprises the X Concept, the X Speedium Coupe Concept and the X Convertible Concept. This captivating trio celebrated Genesis’ Athletic Elegance design language in diverse forms, emphasizing the brand’s design capabilities and future direction for electric GTs. The “X” stands for “hidden hero” and the exploration of various potential designs for the brand.

X Concept

Revealed in March 2021, the X Concept is a high-performance GT concept that maximizes the use of the brand’s signature Two Lines design elements. The front of the X Concept features a low yet broad silhouette thanks to the combination of the shield-shaped Crest Grille and the Two-Line headlamps, which cut through the wheel arch. The car’s unique color, Lençóis Blue, was inspired by the lagoons of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, which form into a lake during the rainy season, and was developed to express the level of sustainable luxury that Genesis pursues.

Inspired by the Beauty of White Space, the concept’s interior features a driver-oriented design, with a cockpit that surrounds the driver with all operating systems and displays. The space is further differentiated by coloring the driver’s seat scotch brown and the passenger seat an ocean wave green blue, which helps emphasize the concept car’s unique design. The entire interior is also made with upcycled materials that add unique character and highlight the concept’s eco-friendliness. The Two Lines design theme appears in the slim and indirect air vents that surround passengers, as well as the side window molding, and provides a sense of unity with the exterior design.

X Speedium Coupe Concept

The X Speedium Coupe Concept, revealed at Genesis House New York in April 2022, emphasized Genesis’ continued exploration of high-performance EVs with a unique and emotionally resonant design. The concept was born out of a freestyle design exercise that previewed what prospective owners of Genesis could expect from the marque’s next wave of EVs. The name Speedium was inspired by the passion for motorsports that was felt by Genesis designers at the Korean racetrack of the same name. It also encapsulates Genesis’ belief that passion for driving will remain strong in the era of electrification.

The X Speedium Coupe Concept inherited the timeless Athletic Elegance design philosophy of Genesis in an even more progressive way. While still a GT, its design hinted at future performance aspirations, as the Parabolic Line extending from the front to the rear of the car maintains a certain tension in the design. The deliberate “anti-wedge” design culminates in a streamlined look that exudes understated elegance.

On the front of the vehicle, Genesis’ signature Two Lines lamps have evolved into a full-width element that encompasses the shape of the crest resembling the Genesis Crest Grille. It was designed to carry the brand signature for the electrification era by integrating the daytime running lamps with the low beam and high beam together.

The concept’s metallic emerald green exterior shade is officially called “Inje Green” and references the mountainous landscape where its namesake Korean racetrack is located.

The interior remains conceptual, focusing on the connection between driver and vehicle. Its two-tone interior clearly distinguishes the passenger space from the driver’s cockpit, set in “Pinegrove Green,” which perfectly complements the car’s exterior color.

X Convertible Concept

The X Convertible Concept was unveiled in November 2022. The crowning third concept in the trilogy, the X Convertible Concept materialized the brand’s Athletic Elegance design language in its purest form yet. Sharing its architecture and electric powertrain with the X Concept and X Speedium Coupe Concept, the car’s ideal proportions are complemented by design purity and exemplify the continued refinement in orchestrating design elements that make up the company’s design language. The X Convertible Concept reinforced Genesis’ commitment to emotionally evocative design and its ability to translate its luxury aesthetic into various body styles, including a captivating convertible.

Sharing the athletic proportions, Parabolic Line and Two-Line headlamps of its coupe counterparts, its exterior also has muscular blisters around the wheels that form an athletic Coke bottle plan view and integrate into an elegant silhouette when viewed from the side. Its long bonnet, generous dash-to-axle, short front overhang and long wheelbase are drawn rearwards towards the long deck, accentuating its stately yet relaxed poise. The Genesis X Convertible Concept's exterior is painted in Crane White. White cranes represent nobility and sanctity in Korea and Genesis wanted to weave these cultural elements into its colorways. The result is an exterior surface coated in white with pearl particles, achieving a luxurious sheen that dynamically frames the contrasting interior.

The interior features Giwa Navy and Dancheong Orange colors, which lend the cabin a modern look and feel, befitting the car’s vibrant character. These colors are inspired by Korean traditional roof architecture, a nod to both the brand’s origins as well as the most important aspect of convertibles. Giwa Navy takes its shade from the distinctive “giwa” dark roof tiles used on many traditional Korean buildings, while the inspiration for Dancheong Orange is one of the complementing shades of the decorative colorings, or “dancheong,” also found on traditional Korean wooden buildings. The latter serves as a bold accent color, encircling the cabin in a two-line motif and featuring on the stitching of the seats and fabric.

4. Genesis GV80 Coupe Concept

The GV80 Coupe Concept, unveiled at Genesis House New York in April 2023, combines the practicality of a lifestyle-oriented SUV with the dynamism of a sports car. It was a statement of intent for more emotionally resonant, performance-oriented models and a preview of Genesis’ future direction. The GV80 Coupe Concept promised a dynamic and stylish alternative for Genesis enthusiasts, combining practicality with a strong dose of performance-oriented design.

This concept expertly blends the robust and commanding stance of an SUV with the sleek, sloping roofline characteristic of a coupe. It was the first Genesis concept to appear with a solid orange exterior color, which symbolizes the confident and passionate attitude of Korea. It also features a more aggressive front fascia sporting a double G-Matrix-patterned Crest Grille surrounded by quad lamps, which pair well with the unique five-spoke forged aluminum wheels and carbon fiber roof. All these design elements contribute to the concept’s dynamic driving qualities by lowering the center of gravity, emphasizing the vehicle’s sporty character.

The interior is a contrast between Genesis’ elegant Beauty of White Space philosophy and athletic attributes. It includes a three-spoke steering wheel, which emphasizes the sportiness of the GV80 Coupe Concept and contrasts with the black Nappa and suede leather with plaid double stitching, orange piping and carbon fiber weaves on the functional surfaces. The four bucket seats provide increased body support during cornering, contributing to passenger safety and comfort.

5. Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept and Genesis X Gran Racer Vision Gran Turismo (VGT) Concept

The X Gran Berlinetta Concept and the X Gran Racer VGT Concept delved deeper into Genesis’ performance aspirations and commitment to motorsports-inspired design, particularly within the digital realm. The Orange color of both concepts embodies Genesis’ high-performance spirit of Magma.

X Gran Berlinetta Concept

This stunning virtual race car was first designed specifically for the Gran Turismo video game series. Unveiled at the Gran Turismo World Series Finals in Barcelona in December 2023, it pushed the boundaries of automotive design with its extreme proportions, active aerodynamic features and a clear focus on track performance.

The X Gran Berlinetta Concept’s exterior embodies the most emotionally resonant expression of the Genesis brand’s characteristic Athletic Elegance design philosophy. Its design is pure and muscular with volumes centered around the wheels, emphasizing the cab-backwards proportions with Genesis’ typical anti-wedge attitude that is structured around a virtual parabolical tensioned theory common to the company’s lineup. Its dramatic lines and functional aerodynamics were originally conceived to dominate virtual racetracks.

X Gran Racer VGT Concept

A derivative of the earlier revealed Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept, this was the brand’s fourth vehicle developed for the Gran Turismo digital racing game series.

It has distinctive active aerodynamic flaps that are electronically controlled for precise adjustments to enhance the car’s aerodynamic qualities and road-holding capabilities, while the flat underbody design further reduces drag and improves vehicle stability. Additional aerodynamic enhancements include a front splitter, rear diffuser, strategically placed canards on the front fascia and a more aggressive rocker panel. The design also features the marque’s signature Parabolic Line that extends from the front to rear, which results in a timeless proportion that epitomizes Genesis’ aesthetic. Its iconic silhouette is filled out by voluminous fenders and a real carbon rear wing, giving it a look that exudes an aura of dynamism and raw power.

Check out Part 2 where we continue to explore a decade of visionary design through Genesis’ most iconic concept cars.

8 YEARS OF GENESIS CARS AT A GLANCE

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0900

GENESIS ESSENTIA CONCEPT NAMED 2019 IDEA AWARD WINNER

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 13:22:00 +0900

SEOUL, Aug. 21, 2019 — Today, the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) awarded the Genesis Essentia Concept with a Gold International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) for Automotive and Transportation. This is the brand’s first “best of the best” award win for Genesis Vehicle Design.

Considered one of the world's top three design awards including IDEA, RedDot and iF, IDEA has recognized North America’s top design award since 1980. This specific award evaluates and ultimately selects the best in design, by comprehensively evaluating various screening criteria such as design innovation, user benefits, and social responsibility. In 2018, Genesis Retail Design and Genesis Sound Design were recognized for “best of the best” award by Red Dot.

“We are extremely proud to be recognized by IDSA with the Essentia Concept which shows the Genesis brand’s vision and future,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and Chief Design Officer. “For a new brand, each design element becomes part of the legacy for the brand, so our goal is to design a car as well as connect it with Genesis DNA.”

The Essentia Concept, which was first unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018, is the Genesis brand’s first electric Gran Turismo (GT) concept car. It was recognized for its interpretation of the “Athletic Elegance” design paradigm, while providing a vision of future Genesis product performance and technology.

The battery-electric Essentia Concept featured a luxurious look with a simple, clear and sleek exterior design and a custom-tailored interior. The interior design was focused on maximizing the connection between the driver and the car, and the overall decoration was reduced to combine restraint and futuristic impressions.

“We aim to show Genesis brand DNA through designing to reshape the landscape of the existing luxury car design,” said Sang Yup Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of the Global Genesis Design Center. “This is the foundation of our design philosophy, ‘Athletic Elegance.’”

GENESIS WINS TWO IF DESIGN AWARDS FOR THE 'G70·SEOUL 2017' GLOBAL LAUNCH AND ESSENTIA CONCEPT

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 08:23:00 +0900

SEOUL, Feb. 12, 2019 — The International Forum Design GmbH, based in Hanover, Germany, is set to recognize Genesis with two “iF Design Awards” for the launch presentation of “G70·Seoul 2017,” a global launch festival held in Seoul’s Olympic Park, and the Essentia Concept. This is the first time that Genesis has received two of the coveted awards.

“When we launched G70, we wanted to give back and let the Korean community embrace its first luxury brand,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “To be recognized with an iF Design Award for this event, as well as the Essentia Concept, affirms our dedication to using innovative methods to celebrate both our product and the overall brand.”

iF awarded “G70·Seoul 2017” as the winner of its Events category. The event held in Seoul featured music superstars Gwen Stefani, Andra Day and CL, and it attracted an audience of 15,000 people. The award-winning, minimalistic design aesthetic, which featured motion design that played across high-resolution LED surfaces that covered the ceiling, floor, and back wall, was devised by brand experience agency, Blackspace.

As the first Genesis model in the highly competitive entry luxury segment, G70 outperforms legacy luxury sport sedans with driver-focused performance. G70, which was named 2019 North American Car of the Year, resets benchmarks and expectations among luxury sport sedans, with holistic integration of performance, body strength, refined luxury and aerodynamic design.

iF also awarded the Essentia Concept in its Product Design category. The all-electric, high-performance Genesis Essentia Concept made its world debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. Essentia is the brand’s first battery electric vehicle and features a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque, a robust, multi-motor electric powertrain, and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is the brand’s initial concept for a true GT car and challenges the status quo as the ultimate manifestation of Genesis design and engineering. As a capable, thrilling sports car designed to counter the complexities of a modern lifestyle, Essentia offers serenity, clarity and beauty.

In this year’s iF Award judging, nearly 70 jurors, all of whom are independent industry experts, weighed in on over 6,400 entries submitted from 50 countries. iF Design Awards have been distributed for the last 66 years. In April 2018, Genesis also earned a prestigious Art Directors Club Germany (ADC) design award for “G70 Seoul 2017.”

GENESIS ESSENTIA NAMED 'CONCEPT OF THE YEAR' BY AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 05:00:00 +0900

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 29, 2019 — Today, the Genesis Essentia Concept was named “Concept of the Year” by Automobile magazine. This is the first year that a Genesis vehicle was recognized with this award by the magazine’s editors.

“Essentia is a statement about the next chapter of our Athletic Elegance design language,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group. “This award from Automobile magazine is recognition of the Genesis design teams’ hard work and dedication.”

"It’s easy to see why our choice for Concept of the Year is the Genesis Essentia all-electric GT coupe,” said Robert Cumberford, Automobile magazine’s Automotive Design Editor. “The Essentia’s importance is not that it’s a superb experimental vehicle from a relatively young Korean company but that it’s a human triumph, embodying the ideas from everyone chosen to join the effort.”

Each year, the editorial staff of Automobile magazine, led by Cumberford, surveys the landscape for the most imaginative, creative, and expressive concept vehicles to honor with its Concept of the Year award.

The all-electric, high-performance Genesis Essentia Concept made its world debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. Essentia is the brand’s first battery electric vehicle and features a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque, a robust, multi-motor electric powertrain, and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is the brand’s initial concept for a true GT car and challenges the status quo as the ultimate manifestation of Genesis design and engineering. As a capable, thrilling sports car designed to counter the complexities of a modern lifestyle, Essentia offers serenity, clarity and beauty.

2019 GENESIS G70 AND ESSENTIA CONCEPT NAMED GOOD DESIGN AWARD WINNERS

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 22:00:00 +0900

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 4, 2019 — In December it was announced that the 2019 Genesis G70 and Essentia Concept both won 2018 GOOD DESIGN® awards. Genesis joins leading transportation, electronic, consumer and lifestyle product brands in receiving the annual awards from The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. The Genesis G80 Sport and GV80 Concept won awards in last year’s judging.

“At Genesis we believe in the power of design to inspire - and express - our clients’ inner spirit,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Designer of Genesis. “The G70 demonstrates what we mean by a balance of athleticism and elegance while the Essentia distills what a truly modern GT car could be for Genesis. The GOOD DESIGN® awards are a welcome acknowledgement of our team’s passionate dedication to design.”

The award, the oldest for design excellence, was founded in 1950 by the legendary Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and architecture historian and philanthropist, Edgar Kaufmann, Jr. This year’s jury met in Los Angeles and New York, selecting award-worthy products from 47 countries.

The 2019 G70 is the third of six new Genesis models slated to debut by 2021, and the final sedan of the lineup. As the first Genesis model in the highly competitive entry-level luxury segment, G70 will outperform legacy luxury sport sedans with driver-focused performance. G70 resets benchmarks and expectations among luxury sport sedans, with holistic integration of performance, body strength, refined luxury and aerodynamic design.

RUEDAS ESPN SELECTS 2019 GENESIS G70 AS 'BEST LUXURY SEDAN'; ESSENTIA CONCEPT NAMED 'STAR OF THE SHOW' BY SOUTHERN AUTOMOTIVE MEDIA ASSOCIATION

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0900

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Oct. 8, 2018 — The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 was awarded Ruedas ESPN’s “Best Luxury Sedan.” The G70 luxury sport sedan was selected by the Ruedas ESPN Executive Committee, a jury composed of industry experts.

“Receiving this award from Ruedas ESPN is further proof of the enthusiasm and excitement surrounding the launch of G70,” said Erwin Raphael, Executive Director, Genesis Motor America.

Ruedas ESPN is the leading Spanish language automotive radio show in the United States, broadcast live on ESPN Deportes Radio, a network of 44 radio stations in the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as SIRIUS and XM Channel 157.

Also last week, on Friday, October 5, the Genesis Essentia concept was chosen as “Star of the Show” at the Miami International Auto Show by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA): the highest honor bestowed upon a vehicle at the Miami International Auto Show. Five judges unanimously decided that the all-electric, high-performance Essentia should receive the award. This was the first time the SAMA judges have rendered a unanimous decision for “Star of the Show.”

“Essentia is not only a breathtaking design, it’s a breath of fresh air,” said SAMA head judge Juan Gregory Robbin. “It’s unlike any other concept car we’ve ever seen. We hope this concept becomes a reality someday.”

GENESIS ESSENTIA CONCEPT COMPLETES WORLD TOUR AT MONTEREY CLASSIC CAR WEEK; ALL-NEW G70 LUXURY SPORT SEDAN MAKES CONCOURS DEBUT

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 19:30:00 +0900

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Aug. 20, 2018 — Following its concours debut at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in May, the Genesis Essentia Concept will appear alongside the most beautiful cars in the world at this year’s Monterey Classic Car Week. Essentia will make stops at McCall’s Motorworks Revival and The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering before taking a spot on the concept lawn at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 will also be shown alongside its concept stablemate in Monterey.

“Monterey Car Week is a prime opportunity for our team to reach one of the most influential global luxury markets,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “After showing Essentia at auto shows on three continents, we are thrilled to present it to the most discerning concours attendees in the world.”

Credentialed automotive aficionados will be able to see Essentia and the G70 and interact with Genesis at the following times and locations:

Wednesday, August 22, 5 to 10 p.m.: McCall’s Motorworks Revival, Monterey Jet Center
Friday, August 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, Quail Lodge and Golf Club (Essentia only)
Sunday, August 26, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, The Lodge at Pebble Beach

GENESIS SHOWCASES ESSENTIA CONCEPT AT THE BUSAN INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 06:00:00 +0900

BUSAN, Korea, June 7, 2018 — Today, Genesis showcased the Essentia Concept for the first time in South Korea at the Busan International Motor Show, held at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center (BEXCO).

"Genesis is delighted to finally introduce the Essentia Concept to the Korean community at the Busan International Motor Show," said Executive Vice President Manfred Fitzgerald, Global Head of the Genesis Brand. "Essentia is the ultimate embodiment of the inspirational and emotional culture we are striving to build as a lifestyle brand, and we look forward to shaping it together with the Korean people, as this place will always be the origin and cornerstone of Genesis."

Essentia, which premiered in March at the New York International Auto Show and made recent appearances at the CR Fashion Book Cannes Party and Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, elevates and reimagines the Genesis "Athletic Elegance" design paradigm while providing a vision of future product performance and technology.

"The focus of designing Essentia was to resist complex, exaggerated and artificial features, and create a pure Gran Turismo (GT) concept that minimizes visual clutter and accentuates minimalist beauty," said Executive Vice President Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Genesis Design. "Genesis designers from around the world have produced an incredibly powerful statement in the Essentia, and we will continue to practice our belief of design without frontiers."

Essentia is the brand's first battery-electric vehicle. It features a lightweight, carbon-fiber monocoque, a multi-motor electric powertrain, and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is also the Genesis brand's initial vision for a true GT car. With an estimated 0-to-100km/h time of 3.0 seconds, Essentia brings sports car-level performance to the realm of electric luxury coupes.

In addition to debuting Essentia at BEXCO, Genesis also displayed "The Ruler," one of the five inaugural G90 Special Edition flagship sedans introduced during the 90th Academy Awards in February.

All five production models, including G70, G80, G80 Sport, G90 (EQ900), and G90 (EQ900) Limousine were also on display at the 1,000㎡ Genesis standalone booth.

ELECTRIFYING ESCAPISM: GENESIS REVEALS ESSENTIA CONCEPT AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Mon, 28 May 2018 03:20:00 +0900

NEW YORK, March 28, 2018 — Today, Genesis unveiled its groundbreaking Essentia Concept at the New York International Auto Show. The all-electric, high-performance concept elevates and reimagines the “Athletic Elegance” design paradigm, while providing a vision of future Genesis product performance and technology.

“We understand our obligation as a luxury car manufacturer to create objects of desire, sparking passion and inspiration by emphasizing a culture while exceeding expectations in terms of technology and connectivity, bringing our outside world seamlessly to the inside of the vehicle,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “This is what the Genesis Essentia Concept is all about, and we are thrilled to introduce our interpretation of an all-electric, two-door Gran Turismo here in New York.”

Essentia is the brand’s first battery electric vehicle and features a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque, a robust, multi-motor electric powertrain, and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is the brand’s initial concept for a true GT car and challenges the status quo as the ultimate manifestation of Genesis design and engineering. As a capable, thrilling sports car designed to counter the complexities of a modern lifestyle, Essentia offers serenity, clarity, and beauty.

“The Genesis Essentia concept defines our vision for an electric Gran Turismo that integrates Athletic Elegance and Genesis DNA as defining parameters,” said Executive Vice President Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Genesis Design. “A Gran Turismo typology highlights our ambition as a luxurious car brand for the connoisseurs and it is the perfect base to project our DNA in the future.”

Exterior Inspiration: Updating an Icon

Throughout the design, the philosophy of “Athletic Elegance” has a prominent role, marrying power and precision through artistry. Essentia takes its inspiration from iconic Gran Turismo proportions, with a long bonnet and a swept-back cabin. Finished in Stardust Gray Metallic, the carbon fiber-bodied Essentia is positioned low to the ground intentionally, to make it instantly recognizable through a graceful silhouette.

“The search for dynamic proportions was contrasted with advanced aerodynamic flows to highlight the bionic combination of performance and aesthetics,” Donckerwolke said. “Essentia embodies the genetic elements of the Genesis design.”

Its front fascia introduces an evolution of the Genesis Crest Grille that highlights efficiency and aerodynamics. Visible through the transparent hood is the advanced carbon fiber chassis, pronounced formula car-style nose cone, as well as the exposed, pushrod suspension. Intakes positioned left and right of the Crest Grille function as air curtains, streamlining airflow around the front corners.

Flanking the Crest Grille are signature Genesis Quad Lights, first introduced on the GV80 Concept. Made possible by laser optical technology, the extremely thin, flush headlights are integrated into the body of Essentia. Extending onto a side blade aft of the front wheels, the lights create a unique light signature for Essentia. Functional air outlets located just behind the front wheels reduce pressure buildup and contribute to reduced drag.

The side profile of Essentia is dominated by the iconic parabolic line that provides visual structure to the body while also emphasizing its overall length. The anti-wedge parabolic line gracefully runs along the shoulder line of Essentia until it meets the muscular rear wheel arches. Butterfly doors enable effortless and elegant ingress and egress. A sensor mounted in the B-pillar integrates fingerprint controls and biometric facial recognition for opening and closing the doors.

The rear of Essentia is defined by an aerodynamic cut-off surface that houses the flush rear Quad Lights and emphasizes the muscles of the rear haunch. An elegant rear diffuser surrounded by carbon fiber acts as a clever, integrated venting solution for the rear wheel arch. Midas metal copper, which is also used as detail trim on the bespoke wheels inspired by the Genesis G-Matrix philosophy, surrounds the entirety of the daylight opening.

Interior Functionality: Elegant De-cluttering

The underlying design theory behind the cabin of Essentia was to maximize the connection between car and driver. Reducing clutter and focusing on beautifully executed details, while displaying the elegant, transparent cockpit cell, was critical.

“On the interior, purism has also dominated the creative process for the interior skin, the layer in contact with the occupants, but less traditionalist the connection between the outside skin and the internal structure. We connected both with our flowing G-Matrix that uses a dynamic web allowing lightness and internal air flow. This highlights the exciting opportunities being explored in 3D printing which transcends the lengthy, inflexible and costly tooling process,” said Donckerwolke.

The interior of Essentia utilizes a mixed-material approach influenced by high fashion and classic color combinations. Cognac leather seats with chevron quilting envelops the driver and passengers in true cockpit fashion. A slim center console covered in Oxford Blue leather bisects the cabin. The front and rear seat belt slots are out of the ordinary, as well, composed of glass pearl finished/treated aluminum and polished aluminum. Layered carbon fiber décor adds a sporty and technical element to the interior details, with a 3D optical effect achieved through the latest technology of layering individual pieces of carbon.

Ahead of the driver is an 8-inch widescreen display with piano black surround. The information in the cluster includes only what is necessary for driving. The widescreen display is operated by a jewel-like central controller, providing a fulfilling user experience for both driver and front passenger.

The rear seats, which are accessed through Essentia’s butterfly doors, are covered in contrasting, Oxford Blue velvet. In line with Essentia’s purpose as a true grand tourer, a luggage compartment behind the rear seats affords plenty of cargo room for a weekend road trip with no particular destination in mind.

Electrification: Evolving the GT Benchmark

Underneath the carbon-fiber monocoque of Essentia is a state-of-the-art, high-density battery pack and multiple electric motors that enable a powerful, confident driving experience. The electric powertrain allowed Genesis Design to redefine classic GT proportions with an extremely low, transparent hood that flows seamlessly into the windshield and the “bubble” roof.

The battery pack is housed in the center tunnel in an I-shape structure, as opposed to underneath the passenger compartment. This allows Essentia to achieve the super-low, 50-inch roofline and spacious, GT-style cabin. With an estimated 0-to-60 time of 3.0 seconds, Essentia brings sports car-level performance to the realm of electric luxury coupes.

Disconnectivity: A New Standard

Essentia was designed to be thoroughly connected to the world around it, while providing its occupants a virtual escape. The technology housed in Essentia surpasses the industry standard, focusing on the connection between the vehicle and its environment in the near future.

For those moments when knowing what’s ahead is critical, Essentia features advanced vehicle-to-infrastructure and vehicle-to-vehicle technology. Essentia can inform the driver of up-to-the-minute road conditions, and help avoid accidents and traffic jams. Further to that, instead of simply providing the quickest or most efficient route, Essentia uses machine learning intelligence to recommend routes based on driver inclination.

And when the route is chosen, Essentia automatically tailors the driving character to its owner’s preference for that road. From seat position to powertrain performance and audiophile system to chassis settings, the joy of the journey deserves technology to match.
Essentia also integrates with smart homes and devices, offering situation-based, personalized recommendations. Entirely customizable, the system also allows Essentia to connect seamlessly with the driver's smart home systems to preprogram HVAC settings, turn on lights, allow for package deliveries, and automatically take the stress out of mundane tasks.

AI also plays a critical role in the technological capabilities of Essentia. Voice recognition and the next-generation Genesis Intelligent Assistant allow for two-way dialogue and full vehicle control through voice command, as well as individual driving behavior analysis and driver mood determination. Essentia can transact mobile payments through its center screen, making electronic payments possible for all kinds of situations.

GENESIS ESSENTIA CONCEPT MAKES CONCOURS DEBUT AT CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE

Fri, 25 May 2018 13:00:00 +0900

COMO, Italy, May 25, 2018 — This weekend the Genesis Essentia Concept will make its Summer 2018 concours debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The car will take part in the concours parade on Saturday, May 26th as well as the celebration at Villa Erba on Sunday, May 27th.

The all-electric, high-performance coupe will compete for the “Design Award for Concept Cars and Prototypes,” a public referendum-based contest.

“With this project, we set-out to create an object of desire, passion and inspiration,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “That is why we were so proud to accept the invite to share the Essentia with the public during our first appearance at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.”

The Essentia Concept, unveiled in March at the New York International Auto Show, elevates and reimagines Genesis’ “Athletic Elegance” design paradigm, while providing a vision of future product performance and technology.

“The Genesis Essentia concept defines our vision for an electric GT (Gran Turismo) that integrates Athletic Elegance and Genesis DNA as defining parameters,” said Executive Vice President Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Genesis Design. “In fact, its GT typology was inspired by some of the vintage cars it will be seen with this weekend.”

Essentia is the brand’s first battery electric vehicle and features a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque, multi-motor electric powertrain and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is also the brand’s initial vision for a true GT car. With an estimated 0-to-60 time of 3.0 seconds, Essentia brings sports car-level performance to the realm of electric luxury coupes.

GENESIS ESSENTIA MAKES APPEARANCE AT CANNES

Fri, 18 May 2018 13:00:00 +0900

CANNES, France, May 18, 2018 — Today, Genesis introduced its all-electric, high-performance Essentia Concept at the CR Fashion Book Cannes Party held during the week of the 71st Cannes Film Festival. This marked the first public appearance of Essentia since its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March.

“We are extremely delighted to be a part of this celebration with CR Fashion Book and the members here at this special occasion,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “It’s very exciting to introduce Essentia here in Cannes to a distinguished global group of guests, and showcase our vision of future mobility.”

Among hundreds of celebrities and influencers present for the 12-day film festival, Essentia had a center-stage reception at this exclusive event.

“We are happy to partner with Genesis on our first CR Fashion Book Cannes Party” said, CR Fashion Book President Vladimir Restoin Roitfeld. “CR Fashion Book is honored to have Genesis’ new Essentia present, which shares many of the same principles as CR in design, luxury and glamour.”

Essentia is the Genesis brand’s first battery-electric vehicle concept. It features a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque, a multi-motor electric powertrain, and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is the brand’s initial design study for a true GT car, challenging status quo as the ultimate manifestation of Genesis design and engineering. As a thrilling sports car designed to counter the complexities of a modern lifestyle, Essentia offers serenity, clarity, and beauty.