Speaking at the event’s Future of Mobility track session with Semafor CEO Justin B. Smith, Muñoz outlined the Group’s future strategy, which is centered on the customer and prioritizes diversification and flexibility to meet their needs.

Choice as a Core Product Strategy

Amid a once-in-a-generation transformation of the automotive industry, Genesis has positioned itself as a proactive leader shaping the future of mobility driven by rising consumer and societal demands for greater sustainability, efficiency and access.

At the event, Muñoz highlighted that the path forward is to provide customers a range of choices. Genesis is strategically helping customers navigate the transition to an all-electric future by addressing the EV chasm — the common concerns like range anxiety and charging infrastructure that can make the leap from internal combustion to fully electric vehicles daunting. By offering a thoughtful portfolio of bridging technologies such as hybrids and extended range EVs (EREVs), Genesis provides a flexible path toward electrification.

“We were one of the first movers when it comes to electrification,” Muñoz reminded the audience. “Not only do we develop EVs, but also hybrids, which are growing 61% last quarter…. And then very soon, EREV next year…. When you realize how dependent we are on crude oil, then you realize that betting on nuclear energy and some environmental energy, like solar, or windmills, etc., is the right way to go.”

Muñoz further emphasized the need for diversification, “As one of the few companies that remain fully committed to electrification, we have seen how the sales of EV cars have grown from February to March by 40%, simply because of the price of oil going up.”

Meeting Customers Where They Are

In August 2023, Genesis crossed its one million cumulative sales milestone less than eight years after its launch — faster than any other luxury brand in history. A key driver of this growth has been the strategic and compelling expansion of the Genesis lineup.

Genesis is architecting a product strategy that is as ambitious as it is attuned to the customer. Recognizing that the path to an all-electric future is not one size fits all, this commitment is underscored by a plan to introduce 22 all-new or significantly enhanced models to the North American market and achieve 350,000 annual sales by 2030, ensuring there is a Genesis to match every stage of a customer's journey into the future of mobility.

While the destination is a zero-emission future, Genesis understands that the journey is both individual and personal. The brand is reaffirming its commitment to a sophisticated, fully electric lineup of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), which will remain the pinnacle of its technological offering. However, to bridge the gap for a diverse customer base, Genesis is broadening its portfolio with two key additions.

Starting in 2026, the brand will introduce a line of advanced hybrids, offering an efficient and seamless entry point into electrification. For those seeking to eliminate reliance on gasoline for daily driving without any range anxiety on long journeys, Genesis will launch groundbreaking EREV models from 2027. These vehicles are engineered to deliver a pure, EV-like driving experience for everyday use, but with the capacity for over 600 miles of total range, removing traditional barriers to EV adoption.

Muñoz also highlighted how technologies once considered distant are now a present-day reality, particularly in the field of hydrogen. He stressed that hydrogen is no longer a concept that is perpetually decades away, noting its technology has evolved dramatically to offer lower running costs, greater efficiency and longer range at a more accessible price point.

To prove its immediate, practical application, he pointed directly to the Group's own operations that have been utilizing hydrogen-powered trucking since 2020. “We are actually running the logistics of our HMGMA plant in Savannah, Georgia, with [XCIENT] trucks… which are powered by hydrogen,” Muñoz stated, continuing, “We've run roughly 20 million kilometers so far with our XCIENT trucks.”

Muñoz suggests that education is essential for adoption in markets like the U.S. to remove the fear associated with hydrogen as it is a completely clean, safe and silent form of energy. “It’s totally environmental. [It] is the number one component available in the world, and then you can have a very long range, like 800 to 1000 miles, in a truck where you will never be able to achieve on an EV.”

Muñoz framed a clear strategic vision where different technologies serve different needs, seeing battery electric vehicles as ideal for the daily commute, while hydrogen is perfectly suited for long haul commercial trucking, where its extensive range is an advantage that battery-only solutions cannot currently match.

This flexibility is built directly into the company’s manufacturing footprint. Speaking of the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Savannah, Georgia, he noted, “That plant was meant to produce up to 500,000 EV cars only. But soon after we made the commitment, we realized that some changes in the demand might happen, and then we took the decision to increase our investment to be able to produce hybrids. This year, we will produce our first hybrids from that plant.”

Beyond Sedans and SUVs

As Genesis enters its second decade, it is boldly expanding its design horizons. A key pillar of this new direction is the introduction of a luxury high-performance line through the marque’s Magma program, filling a crucial space in the Genesis portfolio. The program offers customers a new dimension of dynamic, sporty and emotional driving experiences — while retaining the hallmark luxury of the Genesis brand. The brand recently launched its first Magma production vehicle, the GV60 Magma, which began sales in Korea and is due to arrive on American and European shores soon.

This expansion is also fueled by a new, more personal concept car strategy. Future concepts will be inspired by the diverse facets of customers' lives, reflecting their passions, hobbies and lifestyles to create a more profound connection with the brand. This will manifest in a deliberate push into new vehicle segments beyond traditional SUVs and sedans. Consumers can look forward to seeing the brand's "Athletic Elegance" design philosophy applied to breathtaking new forms, including sophisticated grand tourers, elegant coupes and versatile wagons, further cementing Genesis’ position as a comprehensive luxury marque.

Genesis is not just designing new cars; it is engineering the future of mobility through significant investments in technology, research and development.

From Racing to Production

Genesis is taking to the track with purpose. The Genesis Magma Racing program marks the brand's official entry into the world's most demanding motorsport arenas, beginning with its recent debut at the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) opener in Imola, Italy. This is more than a branding exercise; it is a high-speed laboratory. The extreme pressures of endurance racing — pushing performance, efficiency and durability to their absolute limits for up to 24 hours at a time — serve as the ultimate proving ground for innovation. The technology, materials, and software forged and proven on iconic circuits like Le Mans will be directly channeled into the entire Genesis production portfolio, ensuring that every customer benefits from the lessons learned at the highest level of motorsport.

Future Mobility Defined by Software

Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture is a cornerstone of Genesis’ product strategy, providing transformative flexibility in both vehicle engineering and the customer experience. By decoupling software from hardware on next-generation platforms, Genesis gains the critical agility to house a diverse portfolio of advanced powertrains — from EVs and hybrids to EREVs — allowing the brand to adapt swiftly to market demands.

This separation also unlocks a superior in-cabin experience by creating more physical freedom for interior designers and enabling the vehicle to evolve with the owner through seamless over-the-air updates, which can continuously enhance everything from performance to infotainment and add new, personalized features long after the car has left the showroom.

Empowering, Not Replacing, Humans Through Technology

To bring this ambitious vision to life, Genesis, as part of the Hyundai Motor Group, is making a monumental commitment to innovation. This includes a landmark $26 billion investment in the United States, dedicated to advancing manufacturing capabilities, electrification and future technologies. This group-level investment extends beyond automotive, encompassing significant developments in AI, robotics and autonomous driving.

“We’re going to have more autonomous technology for everyone’s use in individual vehicles for personal use, and global taxiing,” Muñoz declared, referring to the Group’s partnership with Waymo to deploy tens of thousands of robotaxis. The Group has also developed its own autonomous technology through Motional, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and Aptiv to create fully driverless vehicles.

Muñoz consistently framed technology as an enabler of human opportunity, not a limitation. He pushed back on the idea that the solution to congestion is fewer cars, arguing that innovation creates more desire for mobility. “The moment that you have more technology available, humans — we want to use it,” he insisted, drawing an analogy: “200 years ago, it will take you three months to go to Europe. Today, because you can go in a few hours, then I may go to Europe twice in a week.”

He also reassured the audience that the Group does not see robotics as a threat to human jobs, but rather as a powerful tool for augmentation and support. This is clearly demonstrated at its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Savannah where advanced robots are deployed to assist their human colleagues by taking on jobs that are difficult, strenuous or repetitive.

“If you go today to our plant in Savannah, not only you will be amazed to see AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) that are autonomous, that they charge themselves, instead of having the cars running on conveyors, etc., but also that you have humanoids that are helping the humans to do the jobs that are difficult for them.

“So, we don't see the robots as a means to reduce the number of workers. We have a commitment with the state of the number of workers that we hire on that site — which is 8,700 — but we want to make their lives easier. We want to increase productivity, we want to lower the cost, and we want to improve the quality.

Authoring the Next Chapter of Mobility

Ultimately, Genesis' strategy for authoring the next chapter of mobility is grounded in a pragmatic yet ambitious approach. The brand is committed to fulfilling a wide variety of customer needs by offering a diverse portfolio of powertrains and vehicle styles, backed by significant strategic investment in technology and manufacturing. This forward-looking commitment to R&D — from the crucible of motorsport to SDV platforms — ensures that innovation remains at the core of its mission. The marque continues to apply these advancements through its deep understanding of luxury, creating vehicles that are not only technologically advanced but also deeply human-centered and beautifully designed.

Genesis is a Founding Partner of the Semafor World Economy platform and the official sponsor of this year’s "Future of Mobility" track, raising its profile as leading voice in shaping these critical global conversations. The brand also served as the event’s official Experiential Partner, hosting the Genesis Lounge—a hospitality space inspired by the Korean concept of welcoming each guest as an honored individual, known as ‘Son-nim.’ Designed to encourage meaningful exchange, the lounge provided a setting for dialogue among global leaders and key decision-makers.

Gangho Yoon, Research Engineer of the Genesis Total Vehicle Evaluation Team, emphasized that “the exterior of the GV60 Magma has been honed for both visual distinction and improved aerodynamic performance.” The wider tires of the vehicle are housed under newly designed quarter and fender garnishes that accentuate the car’s athletic stance. Air breather garnishes have been strategically integrated to optimize airflow around the body.

A defining element is the refined winglet-type rear spoiler, intended to enhance the vehicle’s aesthetic while improving both drag and lift characteristics, ensuring stable downforce during high-speed driving.

A Magma-Exclusive Interior

Inside, the driver is greeted by a suite of bespoke features designed to create a deeper connection between the driver and the vehicle. The seats, steering wheel and interface are all designed to facilitate the dynamic driving that the GV60 Magma’s capabilities encourage.

Bucket seats are engineered to directly convey the vehicle's driving feel to the driver. These exclusive seats provide a seating posture optimized for dynamic driving and high-speed stability. The design balances firm support with a refined softness, featuring a dual-curvature cushion that enhances thigh support while lowering the center of gravity.

Suede-finished side bolsters offer exceptional grip during cornering, while carefully adjusted foam hardness ensures comfort on long drives. The seats include a 10-way power adjustment function with cushion extension, delivering a configuration that supports both everyday driving and spirited performance, satisfying both daily and sporting needs, unique for a high-performance vehicle.

The Magma steering wheel is designed to blend luxury with adrenaline. A smaller circular horn cover and Magma-colored switches create a focused, sporty feel. The circular rim is designed for natural movements during dynamic steering maneuvers, while the cross-section is optimized for solid, stable handling.

The steering wheel includes paddle shifters designed to minimize hand fatigue while giving the driver more control, enhancing the enjoyment of high-performance EV driving.

The entire infotainment experience has been reimagined with a Magma-exclusive Graphical User Interface (GUI) applied across the cluster, central screen and head-up display.

The Genesis Magma interface aims to enhance driver focus and responsiveness by delivering essential information concisely and intuitively, ensuring optimal engagement behind the wheel. This digital cluster capitalizes on the true black capabilities of its OLED display, contrasting it with Magma Orange to create a minimalist design inspired by the look of a watch face that enhances immersion.

In the specialized Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) mode, the display provides crucial performance data, including an indicator light for optimal gear shifting, a G-force meter, a performance timer and remaining boost timer. This digital interface delivers both the thrill of high performance and the refined elegance unique to Genesis.

Curated Performance: GT and Sprint Modes

Accessible via a dedicated button on the left side of the steering wheel, the two Magma-exclusive drive modes, GT (Grand Touring) and Sprint, allow the driver to instantly tailor the vehicle’s setup to desired driving characteristics.

GT Mode embodies the core Magma ethos of harmonizing comfort and performance. It calibrates the acceleration response for smooth, relaxed dynamics ideal for high-speed, long-distance cruising, yet powerful performance remains instantly accessible if the driver depresses the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor. The electronically controlled suspension adjusts to provide continued stability and a comfortable ride even at high speeds. all -wheel-drive control and front-rear power distribution are also optimized to enhance efficiency and driving range.

Sprint Mode adjusts all electronically controlled components — steering, suspension, motor and electronic-Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) — to their most aggressive, sporty settings for an intensified driving experience. Also, traction is maximized by adjusting front-rear power distribution and e-LSD control. In this way, Sprint Mode realizes the best interpretation of Magma’s vision of uncompromising high performance.

Intelligent Integration for an Immersive Experience

A key distinction of the GV60 Magma’s drive modes is the ability to interpret driver intent and automatically integrate various performance functions.

For instance, in GT Mode, when the accelerator is fully depressed, an Auto Boost Function is activated, providing instantaneous access to peak acceleration without any additional input required.

Sprint Mode works in conjunction with Auto Boost and several additional hidden functions to further enhance the GV60 Magma’s performance. For instance, pressing both the brake and accelerator pedals simultaneously when not moving activates a Launch Control function. This switches the High-Performance Battery Control to Race Mode, actively regulating battery temperature to ensure optimal power output at all times. It also sets the Virtual Gear Shift function to its most dynamic setting to deliver sportier shift responses, sound and shifting logic to maximize the high-performance driving experience.

Virtual Gear Shift: A Tactile Connection

The GV60 Magma introduces a more sophisticated Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) function that recreates the feel of shifting gears in a high-performance internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. Using realistic sound, the system simulates the experience of a V6 engine paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

This function is highly adaptive, with shift patterns, feel and sound fine-tuned for each drive mode — from luxurious and smooth in Comfort to dynamic and thrilling in Sprint. To complete the simulation, an RPM Fuel Cut feature adds a layer of realism during manual shifting via the paddle shifters. This feature simulates a common mechanism in an ICE that disables fuel injection when the engine reaches a specific RPM limit.

e-Active Sound Design Plus

Complementing the VGS is the e-ASD+, an enhanced virtual sound technology. To deliver a richer auditory experience that aligns with the expectations for a high-performance vehicle, two additional exterior speakers have been installed.

Drivers can select from two exclusive soundscapes. The first is a powerful, futuristic EV sound inspired by the audio revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The second is a newly developed sound designed specifically for the VGS function, realistically replicating the powerful acoustics of a high-revving engine redlining at 9,000 RPM.

Mastering Aerodynamics and Road Noise

Sounds such as wind and road noise become more noticeable against the inherently quiet nature of the electric powertrain. This effect is heightened in a performance vehicle, which operates at higher speeds and utilizes high-performance tires that naturally transmit more noise and vibrations from road surfaces. 

To counter this, engineers focused on two key areas: minimizing wind noise at speeds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour and reducing road noise transmitted through the high-performance tires and lightweight wheels. 

Genesis worked rigorously to clearly establish NVH performance standards for the GV60 Magma. Research engineers evaluated the GV60 Magma in extreme crosswind simulations and real-world testing on Germany's Nürburgring and Autobahn, pushing the car to its top speed of 264 kilometers per hour. 

The tests revealed that the most noticeable noise during high-speed EV driving is airflow around the vehicle. To combat this airflow noise, the engineering team reinforced the vehicle’s overall sealing structure, redesigning the cross-sectional design of the door seals and optimizing compression force distribution. 

In addition, the thickness of the driver’s side insulating glass film increased by 7%, and soundproof film was added to the rear door glass as standard, creating a multi-layered barrier against intrusive noise. Finally, the team added sound-absorbing materials inside the door trim to more effectively suppress any transmitted airflow noise. 

To address road noise, the engineering team conducted a detailed analysis of the vehicle structure and noise transmission paths to determine the optimal composition and placement of additional sound-absorbing materials. As a result, sound-absorbing pads were installed inside the tires and the sound-absorbing materials in the floor were reinforced. 

The team also integrated Active Noise Control-Road (ANC-R) technology for any sound that gets through these reinforced barriers. The ANC-R system uses accelerometers and microphones inside the vehicle to detect low-frequency road noise in real time, then generates an opposing sound wave through the vehicle's speakers to effectively cancel it out. 

Refining the Electric Powertrain 

Beyond the cabin, significant attention was paid to the GV60 Magma’s high-performance Power Electric system. To mitigate the high-frequency noises that can result from a motor and inverter with enhanced output, engineers optimized the torque ripple compensation logic, reducing the electrical excitation forces generated during motor operation without impacting efficiency. 

Furthermore, the inverter control logic was specifically designed to minimize voltage distortion, another potential source of high-frequency noise during high-load driving. Additionally, to reduce gear noise, the machining quality of the reducer gears was improved, and the press-fit force was meticulously tuned to ensure uniform, quiet meshing. 

The result of all these improvements is that the GV60 Magma maintains a tranquil, refined cabin environment even during high-speed driving, a new type of driving sensation even for experienced drivers. 

Predictive Handling Through Advanced Torque Vectoring

At the core of the GV60 Magma's dynamic character is a state-of-the-art torque vectoring system. The primary objective is to ensure the vehicle’s movements remain predictable and intuitively controllable, even under extreme driving conditions. This is achieved through the seamless integration of the dual electric motors, an electronic Limited-Slip Differential (e-LSD) and the braking system.

The system actively distributes drive power between the front and rear motors to naturally mitigate understeer and oversteer, promoting fluid, continuous cornering behavior during both normal and extreme driving conditions. The rear-mounted e-LSD optimizes the tire grip of the inner and outer wheels as loads shift during cornering, delivering a precise balance of stability and agility. This is further enhanced by brake-based torque vectoring that directly aligns with the driver’s steering inputs even during sharp cornering.

The entire system, which includes the front and rear drive motors, e-LSD and brakes, is configured with refined settings for each electronic stability control (ESC) mode. “Genesis refined the system via rigorous winter testing in Sweden and New Zealand to ensure stable yet playful motion control, even on low-grip surfaces like snow,” explained Gwichul Kim, Senior Research Engineer of the Genesis Chassis Test Team.

The GV60 Magma also introduces a new Drift Mode. Genesis engineered this feature to make the thrilling dynamics of drifting accessible and controllable in an all-wheel-drive electric vehicle. By employing drift-specific torque vectoring logic and a unique acceleration map, the system induces natural, sustained oversteer, allowing the driver to more easily maintain the vehicle’s attitude during a drift.

Uncompromising Braking Performance

The GV60 Magma is equipped with a braking system equal to the demands of its high-output electric powertrain and optimized regenerative braking control. Large 400-millimeter disc brakes, monoblock calipers and high-performance Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) control work in concert to produce enough stopping power to, in just 33.8 meters, bring the vehicle to a full stop from 100 kilometers per hour.

The system maximizes the use of regenerative braking from both front and rear wheels, even during intense braking or ABS activation. This effectively combats brake fade, a phenomenon that occurs during intense driving of a temporary reduction in braking power due to too much heat in the braking system. Furthermore, a regenerative braking slip control function ensures that stability remains uncompromised if wheels slip.

Drivers can also select their preferred braking feel, as different parameters correspond to the different drive modes of the GV60 Magma. Comfort Mode provides a smooth, linear response with an initial free stroke area for everyday driving. Sport Mode eliminates the free stroke area and increases hydraulic control for immediate, powerful responsiveness suited for the track. Braking power is also increased by approximately 15 percent at high speeds in Sport Mode, delivering an enhanced level of confidence and control.

“To achieve this unique feel when driving a GV60 Magma, the ride and handling was refined with four key concepts in mind,” said Kangwook Jeon, Senior Research Engineer of the Genesis Ride and Handling Test Team. The first concept is the idea that the GV60 Magma should be easy to control, meaning it is tailored for intuitive handling. The second, yet equally important, concept is that the car should be fast and stable, engineered for agile cornering and smooth body movement. The third is that the car should be precise in handling, designed to manage movement dynamics with fine accuracy. Fourth is selectable sportiness, allowing drivers to adapt the driving characteristics of the car to their specific preferences for a personalized experience.

Building the Foundation: A Reimagined Suspension System

These concepts have been brought to life through a completely reimagined next-gen suspension geometry. Genesis engineers redesigned the parts of the car directly linked to the wheels — the lower arms, hub carriers and link structures — to amplify precision and agility, culminating in enhanced cornering performance.

The next-generation suspension adjustments extend to the roll center, the virtual axis around which the vehicle tilts. The GV60 Magma’s roll center has been significantly lowered compared to the current GV60 — reducing the front roll center from 122.3 to 41.6 millimeters and the rear from 169.6 to 80.1 millimeters. This change maximizes tire grip during high-performance driving. Additionally, the caster trail was increased by 16 millimeters and arm length by 2 millimeters, enhancing both steering and straight-line stability. These optimizations improve the vertical tire load by 10% and cornering force by over 18%.

The driving performance of the GV60 Magma is also augmented by new damper specifications. Genesis engineers have introduced stroke-sensing Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) technology, which responds in real time to road conditions to adjust damping force. This system minimizes noise and impact, even on uneven surfaces like potholes, ensuring a tranquil drive while maintaining vehicle stability.

Additional enhancements include the End-of-Travel (EoT) system, which detects roll angles and instantly adjusts damping, refining cornering precision and stability. The front axle incorporates Hydro G-bushings for sharper steering responsiveness. Dual-layer member bushings in the rear enable separate control of vertical and longitudinal vibrations. Together these components create a harmonious balance between high-limit road performance and cabin quietness.

Finally, any road impacts that get through these complex systems are further mitigated by the vehicle’s high-strength components and urethane insulators, completing Genesis’ signature driving refinement.

Sophisticated Design Meets Practical Performance

Genesis also modified several components of its wheel design for the GV60 Magma. Ultra-wide 275-millimeter tires, paired with lightweight forged wheels, further enhance grip and responsiveness. To match the vehicle's new geometry, the hub carrier design was revised, widening the wheel track by 5 millimeters per wheel, 10 millimeters total. New fifth-generation P-ZERO tires were chosen, as they offer improved structure, comfort, cornering force and better performance across wet and snowy conditions.

These GV60 Magma's chassis component refinements benefit further from meticulous adjustments to spring stiffness, shock absorber length and stabilizer bar specifications, tuning the entire system to ensure a driving experience that feels both controlled and effortless.

Body Rigidity: Elevating Stability

Genesis engineers reinforced the GV60 Magma's body for heightened stability at ultra-high speeds. With an additional 0.65 meters of structural adhesive and 20 extra welding points, the body absorbs shock and vibrations more effectively. L-brackets integrated within the wheel housings improve torsional rigidity by 9.7%, sharpening steering responsiveness and driving stability.

Every element of the GV60 Magma is designed to deliver a dynamic driving experience without compromising refinement. With its ride and handling technology, enhanced geometry, and advanced suspension systems, the GV60 Magma stands as a flagship model in Genesis' EV lineup. These technical details combine to create a thrilling high-performance drive.

“In a very short period of time, our engineers achieved something truly remarkable,” said Manfred Harrer, President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Division. “They created a car that is not only fast, but truly Genesis; a car that inspires confidence and provides a true emotional connection.” 
 

Extensive enhancements to the powertrain, including upgraded electric motors and refined rotor speed development, enable the GV60 Magma to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.4 seconds and from 0 to 200 kilometers per hour in just 10.9 seconds — offering the most powerful performance within the Genesis lineup. Its front and rear motors generate a maximum speed of 20,920 rotations per minute delivering 790 Newton-meters of torque, a peak output of 650 PS (641 horsepower) and a top speed of 264 kilometers per hour, making it the fastest EV Genesis has ever made.

This remarkable performance isn't just about hardware; Genesis has also introduced advanced software refinements. The GV60 Magma employs next-generation two-stage motor control, overcoming the high-speed power limitations typically found in conventional EVs. Boost Mode gives the driver up to 15 seconds of maximum output, unleashing even more torque and power even at high speeds.

Luxury and Driving Dynamics in Perfect Harmony

The GV60 Magma also offers precision-tuned driving dynamics tailored for any situation. The vehicle features five distinct drive modes: Range, Comfort, Sport and the Magma-exclusive Sprint and GT modes.

• Range Mode prioritizes efficiency and maximizes driving range with seamless responsiveness.

• Comfort Mode strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy for everyday use.

• Sport Mode quickens responsiveness, offering a spirited driving experience for routine journeys.

• Sprint Mode unleashes aggressive torque and accelerator sensitivity ideal for track settings.

• GT Mode delivers the performance of a luxury grand tourer, blending effortless cruising with commanding acceleration when needed.

Innovative Pedal Response for Enhanced Control

A key element in delivering this dynamic range is the specially configured accelerator pedal. “The pedal resistance was increased across all ranges to enhance control over acceleration,” said Taejun Kang, Senior Research Engineer of the Genesis EV Performance Test Team. Resistance has been adjusted to elevate control and reduce fatigue, offering lower resistance in light pedal applications for daily driving and greater resistance for high-depression inputs during sporty maneuvers. This ensures a smooth and intuitive connection between the driver and the vehicle's subtle power.

LE CASTELLET, France, Feb. 23, 2026 — Genesis Magma Racing will work with HEXIS for the production and application of self-adhesive film to create the team’s livery on the GMR-001 Hypercars for the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season. The French company will become a Technical Partner for the team.

Hexis Quality Products Play Vital Role for Team’s Identity

Livery is a critical part of the identity of any race team, and even more so for a team introducing a new manufacturer to the world of motorsport, which is Genesis Magma Racing’s exciting role in 2026.

To have maximum effect, especially in the face of the unique demands of endurance racing, the material applied to the car needs to be durable while not compromising the aerodynamics and efficiency of the race car. To match this complex set of demands, HEXIS’ solutions are developed to perform under intense mechanical stress, high-speed airflow, extreme temperature variations and demanding race-weekend logistics.

Genesis Magma Racing Chief Engineer Justin Taylor said: “The FIA World Endurance Championship is very demanding on every detail of the car, inside and out. The film on the car needs to be extremely light but very strong to resist the force of the air at high speed and impacts of stones and other small debris so the GMR-001 Hypercar looks its best throughout each race weekend.”

Genesis Magma Racing’s partnership with HEXIS gives the team the benefit of the company’s more than 35 years of experience, innovation and expertise in motorsport, honed through work with teams at every level of racing, from national series up to World Championships. That innovative expertise has come to the fore in HEXIS’ work with Genesis to develop a custom film that will be used on the GMR-001 Hypercar specifically for the team.

Shared DNA Joins Partners Together to Meet Challenge

Entering the FIA WEC as a brand-new manufacturer in motorsport is an enormous challenge for Genesis Magma Racing but one that the team is determined to work hard to overcome to earn the right to compete for podiums and victories. The same DNA runs through HEXIS, prompting the company to continually push itself through partnerships with leading motorsport teams.

“We search for performance together. We solve challenges together. We aim to win together,” said Clément Mateu, CEO of the HEXIS Group. “The world of motorsport remains a fantastic laboratory for testing and developing new technologies. HEXIS Group is fully committed to working alongside some racing teams and pro race drivers in this race for innovation and technological challenges.”

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Feb. 4, 2026 — Car and Driver recognized four Genesis models in its 2026 Editors’ Choice Awards. The Genesis G80, G90, GV70 and GV80 were named as winners in their respective categories after editors carefully tested, evaluated and inspected nearly 450 vehicles on the market today. To win, a vehicle must have earned a rating of at least 9 out of 10 stars from Car and Driver’s expert vehicle reviewers. 

“In just a decade, Genesis has surpassed one and a half million vehicles sold globally – an important milestone that reflects the strong momentum behind our brand,” said Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “As we continue to grow, this recognition from the editors of Car and Driver underscores our commitment to delivering vehicles with timeless design, advanced technology and an exceptional driving experience.” 

Genesis’ award-winning lineup offers a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and convenience features, including available Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Monitor, Surround View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning, Highway Drive Assist and more. 

Intuitive technology elevates the experience further with an available 27-inch OLED display that seamlessly integrates the gauge cluster and infotainment system, available Bang & Olufsen® premium audio, Genesis Digital Key and Smart Key. Carefully crafted design elements, such as the signature two-line headlamps with micro lens array (MLA) technology and G-Matrix Crest Grille, bring Genesis’ commitment to timeless design to life. 

The Editors’ Choice awards were conceived to serve Car and Driver’s growing audience of new-vehicle shoppers by providing them with a comprehensive list of recommended models. Editors’ Choice honorees range from compact sedans and hatchbacks to full-size SUVs and pickup trucks, all of which are the best at fulfilling their mission while maximizing value. Each one also aligns with Car and Driver’s assertion that the best vehicles are the ones that deliver an engaging on-road experience. 

The full list of Genesis vehicles recognized by Car and Driver 2026 Editor’s Choice Awards: 

• Genesis G80 – Luxury Mid-size Cars 

• Genesis G90 – Full-size Luxury Cars 

• Genesis GV70 – Compact Luxury SUVs 

• Genesis GV80 – Mid-size Two-Row Luxury SUVs 

After much anticipation, Genesis’ first Magma production model, the GV60 Magma, was unveiled last month at Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France — the home base of the Genesis Magma Racing team. The move heralds the marque’s evolution from a young luxury brand to a luxury high-performance brand as it celebrates its 10^th anniversary.

Although similar in appearance to its sibling, the GV60, at first glance, the striking GV60 Magma hints at its capabilities with its vibrant Magma Orange exterior and functional sporty design elements that embody Genesis’ “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy — much like its namesake, the hidden molten energy beneath the earth’s surface waiting to erupt.

But the only way to truly understand this unseen side of the GV60 Magma is to experience it. Korean automotive columnist Donghee Lee shares his firsthand experience riding shotgun in the GV60 Magma.
 

Riding shotgun on a hot lap in the GV60 Magma is nothing short of extraordinary. From  the moment you settle into the bucket seat, you’re greeted with just the right balance of support and comfort. As the driver presses the start button, the dashboard comes to life with the Magma-exclusive welcome animation. Its clear, refined graphics create a captivating visual experience from the very first encounter.

While driving in Range or Comfort mode, the car’s character reveals itself the moment you step on the accelerator. The combination of a highly rigid chassis, finely tuned suspension and seamless motor response work together to deliver power exactly when it’s needed. Rotating the drive mode dial, located on the lower left side of the steering wheel, allows the driver to conveniently toggle between Range and Comfort modes. Essential information is displayed on the intuitively designed instrument cluster, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The GV60 Magma has a maximum output of 650 ps (478 kilowatts), a top speed of 264 kilometers per hour and the ability to rocket from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.4 seconds using Launch Control. Keep the pedal down and you’ll reach 200 kilometers per hour in only 10.9 seconds — delivering performance that places the GV60 Magma in luxury sports car territory. It’s high-performance motor, capable of spinning up to an astonishing 20,920 rotations per minute, channels 175 kilowatts and 370 Newton-meters of torque to the front wheels, and 303 kilowatts and 420 Newton-meters to the rear wheels when in Boost Mode.

According to the spec sheet, the rear wheels provide a significantly higher output, giving drivers the unmistakable jolt of adrenaline thrill that comes with a rear-wheel-drive sports car. While the front wheels, responsible for steering, receive just enough power to maintain stable handling, it’s the rear wheels that deliver more traction for acceleration. This setup significantly enhances the car’s overall control and maneuverability.

The GV60 Magma uses a two-stage system to manage its AC-DC inverter, carefully regulating the flow of electricity to the motors based on driver input and driving conditions. The rear motor, equipped with a dual-stage inverter, generates a maximum output of 303 kilowatts during Boost Mode and is engineered to sustain its peak power all the way to a high-rev range of 15,000 rotations per minute. This enables the car to deliver consistent thrust even at high speeds, allowing drivers to fully experience its relentless power.

The GV60 Magma’s powertrain propels it from a standstill to 200 kilometers per hour in a blistering 10.9 seconds. Even as air resistance ramps up at high speed, Genesis has masterfully engineered the vehicle to enhance the thrill of driving. On a straight, flooring the accelerator unleashes a steady, powerful surge of thrust, with the speedometer racing past 200 kilometers per hour in no time. With Boost Mode staying active for up to 15 seconds, fully harnessing its potential on the track (unless you’re somewhere like the Nürburgring) becomes a challenge in itself.

The driver presses the Magma button at the center of the drive mode dial, and the GV60 Magma transforms into a predator. But Magma isn’t aiming for untamed aggression. Instead, GT Mode (activated by the Magma button) is named aptly for its purpose: fast and elegant cruising for long-distance driving. Comfort Mode on the other hand (which we began our lap with) engages both the front and rear motors for all-wheel drive as the car gains speed. While this improves responsiveness during acceleration, it makes energy consumption less efficient.

In GT Mode, the GV60 Magma shifts its focus to the impressive power of its rear motor, reducing the driving load and enhancing efficiency at higher speeds. The result is acceleration that feels lighter and more responsive than Comfort Mode, yet it offers a more refined and elegant driving experience compared to the Sport and Sprint modes. This boosts energy efficiency by keeping the front motor disengaged.

Striking the Perfect Balance between High Performance and Comfort

The GV60 Magma’s signature ride and handling concept is where its dual nature truly shines, especially when pushed to its limits on the track. It’s not only quick and stable, but also predictable and responsive, despite being maxed out at 650 ps and lugging 2.2 tons of EV. This is largely thanks to significant changes made to the steering system, linkages and the front suspension — elements that greatly influence the car’s driving characteristics.

Unlike the standard GV60, which is equipped with a variable gear ratio rack-and-pinion system, the GV60 Magma adopts a fixed gear ratio. The single higher gear ratio enables consistent wheel movement in response to steering input while sharpening reaction times. This quick steering response is an advantage in sports cars, boosting both agility and precision on the track. However, the heightened sensitivity might feel a bit draining for relaxed everyday driving where such responsiveness can also be a bit jarring.

To combat this, the caster trail — the distance between where the steering axis intersects with the ground and the tire contact patch — has been pushed 16 millimeters towards the front compared to the standard model, enhancing steering stability and providing cleaner feedback at high speed. Additionally, the length of the effective arm — which translates steering inputs into wheel movement — has been extended from 144 to 146 millimeters, which further improves steering stability by absorbing external impact from uneven surfaces and road joints, offering a smoother and more controlled experience at high speeds.

The GV60 Magma has notably had its suspension hard points re-engineered, including its front wheel knuckles and rear wheel carriers, which connect the wheels to the chassis. These updates have reshaped the suspension geometry, significantly lowering the roll center. This substantially improves handling, allowing the tires to maintain better contact with the road surface during abrupt lateral weight shifts usually experienced on the track. Tire contact points remain incredibly consistent even under significant vertical movement, greatly improving the car’s dynamic stability and handling precision.

To balance high-performance handling and a comfortable ride in a heavy EV, the GV60 Magma employs Hydro G-Bushings in the front wheels, while the rear suspension subframe utilizes a combination of hydro and dual-layer bushings. Additionally, high-strength components and urethane insulators effectively absorb road impact, ensuring the refined driving experience we have now come to associate with the Genesis brand.

One of the most surprising aspects of the GV60 Magma on the track was its remarkably flexible suspension. The key to this is the stroke-sensing electronically controlled dampers. Despite its 2.2-ton weight, the car’s heft is just a number on paper. When accelerating, braking or cornering at the limit, you’ll likely experience some strong G-forces. But the car itself stays composed and stable for a calm and controlled drive.

These newly implemented dampers integrate an End-of-Travel (EOT) control function which manages damper behavior at the extreme limits of their stroke range. Height sensors installed on all four wheels monitor them individually in real time, adjusting damping force as roll angles occur during handling. This not only prevents the dampers from physically impacting other metal components when they are fully compressed or extended but also mitigates abrupt movements when riding over track curbs, speed bumps or potholes.

The EOT-enabled stroke-sensing dampers, combined with reinforced springs and a lowered roll center optimized for the GV60 Magma, allows its behavior to remain predictable when going all out on track. This sense of control inspires confidence in the driver and naturally extends to the passengers. As the car jumps raised curbs or speeds through the track’s bumpy run-off areas, the suspension and robust chassis work seamlessly to absorb shock and minimize uncomfortable jolts.

An Immersive Experience that Only Genesis Can Provide

The roar of an engine is undeniably part of the sports car thrill. On the other hand, one of the biggest advantages of EVs is their quietness. As a luxury high-performance EV, the GV60 Magma strikes a perfect balance between the two.

To maintain a quiet cabin as one would expect in an EV, the vehicle's floor and door trims have been reinforced with additional sound-absorbing materials. Weatherstripping around the doors has been fortified, and a thicker film was used on the laminated glass to block wind noise more effectively. The GV60 Magma also comes with Genesis’ Active Noise Control-Road — first debuted in the GV80 — as standard.

The GV60 Magma also addresses the distinctive sixth harmonic noise generated by EV motors by controlling it with a reverse-phase current. Additionally, the excitation force from the input and reduction gears that connect the motor to the gearbox has been minimized. Excitation force creates vibrations in gears or housings due to transmission errors, motor torque ripples or cogging torque. By mitigating this force, vibrations caused by resonance (including whining, rattling and high-frequency gear noises emanating from the gearbox) are all significantly reduced.

One of the best parts of driving a quiet EV without a doubt is enjoying the music, especially on a luxe Bang & Olufsen sound system. But on days like today when you need to focus on the track, you’ve just got to have that high-performance car sound. The GV60 Magma delivers an exhilarating auditory experience with its E-Active Sound Design Plus system, offering a thrill unmatched by other EVs.

For over a century, humans have delighted in the rising pitch of engine noises when shifting gears in internal combustion cars. This auditory feedback is especially critical during track driving, where glancing at the speedometer isn’t always feasible. The engine sounds correspond to virtual gear ratios and shift sounds — indicating cornering speed and allowing the driver to gauge when to accelerate or slow down.

The GV60 Magma’s Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) excites you in a way other EVs can’t by replicating the engine sound of a high-performance ICE sports car and the uncanny shifting sensation of an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. The paddle shifts lock the car into each gear and even allow the driver to experience a simulated fuel cut so you can change gears at the optimal RPMs at every corner. The immersive experience isn’t limited to the cabin either — additional external speakers, one at the front and one at the rear, project these sounds outward, making driving more exciting and providing an unforgettable experience for spectators watching the GV60 Magma in action.

The GV60 Magma bares its true nature in Sprint Mode. In Sprint, all major functions like the motor, steering, electronically controlled suspension and the electronic limited-slip differential for distributing torque between the rear wheels, are adjusted to their most aggressive Sport+ setting. The throttle response becomes razor sharp, allowing you to fully appreciate the 650 ps output.

Sprint Mode also keeps the car primed for maximum acceleration by automatically activating Launch Control. As if that wasn’t enough, flooring the accelerator pedal over 90% of the way triggers Boost Mode, unleashing the GV60 Magma’s full potential on a straight and very conveniently shaving precious seconds off your lap time.

Adding to the excitement of tackling the racetrack is the consistent braking feel achieved through balanced regenerative braking control in the front and rear motors during deceleration. When combined with VGS, track driving is an absolute delight. My ride just kept becoming more exhilarating and more immersive with every pull of the paddle shifters.

While my time with the GV60 Magma was limited to a track taxi ride along, it was more than enough to see why this car was brought to life — achieving harmony and balance in duality. The GV60 Magma masterfully combines high performance and sportiness complimented by fast cornering and high-speed stability. Experiencing the GV60 Magma on the track allows you to experience the pinnacle of the Genesis brand — a car that is fast, dynamic and elegant all at once, leaving no doubt about its place as a halo within the Genesis lineup.

About Donghee Lee
Lee began his career as a motoring journalist at Car Life magazine. He gained recognition with popular articles like Tiburon Diary and The Restoration of a 1969 Land Rover. Lee went on to work in sales training and product planning for Chrysler Korea and Jaguar Land Rover Korea, eventually becoming a dealership manager. Today, he combines hands-on industry experience and analytical expertise as a columnist and consultant.

LE CASTELLET, France, Nov. 20, 2025 — Genesis is embarking on the next chapter of its journey with its “Luxury High Performance” positioning as the cornerstone of the brand’s evolution over the next 10 years.

Genesis hosted its Magma World Premiere today at Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France, where it debuted the GV60 Magma — the brand’s first high-performance production model — and the Magma GT Concept, a model that symbolically defines the direction of Genesis’ performance heritage for the next decade. The Magma GT Concept embodies the essence of the brand’s approach to luxury and performance, going beyond sheer speed to reveal a balanced expression of refined luxury and authentic motorsport spirit.

Along with the unveiling, Genesis also revealed its vision to solidify its position as a true luxury brand by embodying the concept of Luxury High Performance, a seamless fusion of refined elegance and superior performance. Together, the GV60 Magma and the Magma GT Concept bring this vision to life, showcasing the dual pillars of production-ready capability and future-focused performance ambition. Building on a decade of success in the global premium car market as an independent marque, this new direction sets the stage for Genesis’ next chapter.

José Muñoz, President & CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Genesis achieved one million global sales faster than any luxury marque in history. Magma represents our declaration that the next ten years will be even more significant. We're not just building high-performance vehicles; we're redefining what a luxury high performance brand can be when Korean innovation meets global ambition."

Genesis' Luxury High Performance Vision

Genesis defines Luxury High Performance as distinct from the conventional approaches to performance centered on horsepower or speed. At its core, this vision blends the true essence of luxury — defined by refined elegance and elevated experiences — with seamless, effortless performance that enhances every aspect of the driving journey.

Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Design Officer and Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, said, “Magma reveals a new facet of Genesis, one that elevates the brand towards true luxury through performance. It shows how emotion and precision can coexist in perfect harmony, defining a more confident and mature expression of Genesis. Through Magma, we’re injecting adrenaline into the Genesis DNA while preserving the elegance and balance that define true luxury.”

Genesis’ vision for Luxury High Performance builds on the brand’s “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy by bringing it into the high-performance space. It prioritizes balanced power, finely tuned driving dynamics and seamless harmony between driver and vehicle rather than relying on excessive energy or intensity.

The GV60 Magma is the first production model to bring this new high-performance vision to life, laying the foundation for the forthcoming Magma model.

GV60 Magma: First to Embody Genesis’ High-Performance Innovation and Bold Vision

The GV60 Magma is the first production model of the GV60 Magma concept unveiled last year, officially marking Genesis' entry into the high-performance realm. Genesis' exploration of high-performance innovation — showcased through its GV80 Coupe Concept, X Gran Berlinetta Concept and G80 Magma Special has finally been realized in a production model with the GV60 Magma.

The GV60 Magma serves as a clear representation of the philosophy and core technological vision that will define Genesis’ future Magma lineup.

Genesis Magma is defined by three key attributes:
 

• Design (Unspoken Dominance) – A dynamic yet elegant look achieved through a low, wide stance, embodying both Genesis' signature sophistication and athleticism.
   

• Driving Sensation (Captivating Control) – Precise control of power and vehicle behavior, enabling seamless movement in any driving conditions.
   

• User Experience (Sharpened Immersion) – Intuitive delivery of essential driving information, enhancing focus and creating an immersive driving experience.

Encompassing the Genesis Magma Philosophy Through Design

Design is the most tangible expression of the Genesis Magma philosophy. The GV60 Magma's design emphasizes the presence of “subtle, untapped power,” steering away from overtly ostentatious or aggressive styling.

The front and rear motors generate a combined maximum output of 448 kilowatts (609 ps) and peak torque of 740 Newton-meters. When Boost Mode is activated, the performance rises to 478 kilowatts (650 ps) and 790 Newton-meters, with a top speed of 264 kilometers per hour.

Black high-gloss molding, dark metal accents and streamlined canards elevate the high-performance aesthetic with a focus on a sleek, monochromatic palette.

The car’s side profile emphasizes its low and wide proportions by lowering the overall height by 20 mm and incorporating wide fenders, Magma-exclusive 21-inch forged wheels and 275 mm tires. The side skirts feature three-hole details, mirroring the front design, and are integrated with the breather line to optimize airflow. Glossy black finishes on the window frames and exterior moldings further enhance the streamlined aesthetic while minimizing the use of chrome for a sleek and modern look.

The functional rear wing-type spoiler not only serves as a visual element but also generates downforce. The newly designed rear bumper combines the body color with black accents, while the lower diffuser structure has been engineered to enhance aerodynamic performance.

The interior combines premium materials for a sporty vibe. The seats, door trim and center console are adorned with Chamude, a premium suede-like material. The Magma model's distinct color identity is showcased through orange and gray stitching, quilting details and seat belts. Buttons, switches and emblems feature black high-gloss or dark metal finishes, minimizing reflective glare and contributing to a composed, elegant interior ambience.

The steering wheel is adorned with elements exclusive to Magma, including a distinct rim design, black emblem and orange accents on the drive mode and boost buttons.

Delivering the Highest Level of Driving Performance

The GV60 Magma is positioned among the models that deliver the highest level of performance within Hyundai Motor Group. From a performance perspective, the primary development goal was to achieve a sense of control that precisely aligns with the driver's intent, prioritizing the "perfection of driving control.”

The front and rear motors generate a combined maximum output of 448 kW (609 ps) and peak torque of 740 Nm. When Boost Mode is activated, the performance rises to 478 kW (650 ps) and 790 Nm, with a top speed of 264 km/h.

Notably, the maximum output range of the rear motor has been extended to ensure stable performance even during high-power driving. Additionally, Boost Mode enhances output and torque for approximately 15 seconds, maximizing acceleration responsiveness. This enables the GV60 Magma to accelerate from a standstill to 200 kilometers per hour in just 10.9 seconds with the Launch Control function. Beyond delivering quick initial acceleration, the car also maintains consistent power output at higher speeds.

Launch Control delivers optimal starting torque from a standstill, enabling rapid and responsive acceleration at launch. The GV60 Magma also offers three drive modes: Sprint, GT and My. In My Mode, drivers can customize settings for the electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and other performance parameters.

The suspension system has been optimized by recalibrating the roll center and refining the geometry. It also features Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) and End-of-Travel (EoT) control systems, delivering an ideal balance of cornering stability and ride comfort. Hydro G-Bushings in the front suspension and dual-layer bushings in the rear crossmember effectively minimize vibrations and impacts.

Furthermore, the braking system is upgraded with front monoblock calipers and large-diameter discs, optimized for the 21-inch wheels, and rear brakes featuring GG-rated high-friction materials, enhancing overall braking performance.

Despite riding on wide tires, the GV60 Magma maintains the serene cabin quietness expected of a luxury high-performance car. This is achieved through the combination of Active Noise Control-Road, sound-insulating glass and reinforced door sealing.

A Dedicated Digital Interface

The GV60 Magma is equipped with a dedicated digital interface, sound design and driving feedback system specifically designed to make the driving experience more immersive.

Activating “Magma Mode” transforms the instrument cluster into a 3-circle layout, prominently displaying essential driving data, including motor and battery temperatures, speed and G-force. Additionally, the Head-Up Display provides a simplified view of key information such as speed, regenerative braking levels and remaining boost time.

The infotainment system also supports an array of Magma-exclusive high-performance driving features such as the Virtual Gear Shift System (VGS), Drift Mode, and High-Performance Battery Control (HPBC).

The VGS feature adjusts motor output, torque and regenerative braking to replicate the shifting sensations and driving dynamics of a high-performance internal combustion engine vehicle while simultaneously reproducing the sound of a high-revving engine to deliver an immersive and emotionally engaging driving experience.

When VGS and HPBC are engaged, the cluster also displays performance-oriented metrics — including a performance timer and pedal input levels — delivering key driving data in a clear and intuitive format.

Drift Mode combines power distribution and e-LSD to support rear-wheel-focused driving, while HPBC optimizes battery temperature for peak performance during racing or drag driving.

Magma GT Concept: Forging the Path to Performance Heritage

At the Genesis Magma World Premiere, Genesis also introduced the Magma GT Concept to the world for the first time. Far from being just a show car, this concept serves as a road map for how Genesis plans to establish its performance heritage in the years to come. This aligns with the brand strategy outlined at the recent Hyundai Motor Company’s CEO Investor Day event in New York in September.

At the time, Genesis announced its intention to develop the Magma GT Concept into a performance icon, or halo car. The marque also shared its long-term goal to compete in the GT racing class. 

The Evolution of the Magma Program

During the Magma World Premiere, Genesis showcased past concept vehicles and prototype models that are part of the Magma umbrella, such as the GV80 Coupe Concept, G80 Magma Special, G80 EV Magma Concept, GV60 Magma Concept, G70 Track Taxi Nordschleife, G80 Magma Special Prototype, X Gran Berlinetta Concept, X Gran Racer Concept, X Gran Coupe Concept, G90 Wingback Concept, the GMR-001 Hypercar, and the Magma GT Concept. The showcase underscored that the Magma Program is not a short-term endeavor but a project developed through extensive experimentation and innovation over the years.

Magma is not a program derived from a single model but a high-performance experimental journey, evolving through iterative development of design, driving performance and technological innovation based on concept cars.

The GV80 Coupe Concept, the first model to sport Magma Orange, was recognized for redefining and pushing the boundaries of conventional luxury design.

The G80 Magma Special was realized through joint development with high-performance partners, while the X Gran Berlinetta Concept stands as a prime example of Genesis' direction for high-performance design.

At the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the U.K., the GV60 Magma Concept participated in the Sunday Shootout, achieving a remarkable class win in the “4-Seater Production Car” category. The model completed the 1.86-kilometer course in just 52.72 seconds, heightening anticipation for its production viability and technological sophistication.

Through these stages, the GV60 Magma was able to incorporate the design direction and driving technologies refined during the experimental phase, serving as a benchmark for the future expansion of the Magma Program.

Starting with the Korean market at the start of the year, the GV60 Magma will be introduced to European and N. American markets in 2026, bringing Luxury High Performance to drivers across the globe.

SEOUL, Nov. 19, 2025 — True luxury isn’t just about sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology; it’s about safety. More than a luxury vehicle, Genesis is a sanctuary where advanced safety features and exceptional craftsmanship come together to create an elevated driving experience.

Several of the marque’s models have been independently recognized for their safety features, passing the most strenuous safety testing with flying colors. Most recently, six Genesis models were recognized for their excellent safety performance by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

Independently Recognized

The IIHS awarded the 2025 GV60, 2025-26 GV70 (built after April 2024), 2025-26 Electrified GV70, 2026 G80 (built after June 2025) and 2025 GV80 models the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) rating. IIHS also awarded the 2025 Genesis G90 the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) rating. IIHS awards only apply to U.S. models.

But what is the IIHS and what do these ratings mean? The IIHS is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research and evaluation and through education of consumers, policymakers and safety professionals.

Based on a vehicle’s performance in crashworthiness tests (small overlap front, moderate overlap front: updated test, and side: updated test) as well as crash avoidance and mitigation tests (headlights and front crash prevention: pedestrian), the IIHS assigns a rating for each test.

To qualify for 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front and updated side tests and an acceptable rating in the updated moderate overlap front test. It also must earn an acceptable or good rating for pedestrian front crash prevention and come with standard acceptable- or good-rated headlights.

To qualify for 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front and updated side tests. It also must earn an acceptable or good rating for pedestrian front crash prevention and come with standard acceptable- or good-rated headlights. 

Earning the 2025 IIHS TSP and TSP+ awards positively promotes Genesis’ reputation as a manufacturer of safe vehicles in the U.S. market. This is because American consumers trust the IIHS’s scientific and systematic safety evaluation methods. 

Raising Safety Standards

Earning these ratings is becoming increasingly challenging, as the IIHS’s evaluation standards have become more stringent over the past few years. In 2023, IIHS increased the weight and speed it uses in the side impact test. The same year, a nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention evaluation was added. In 2025, IIHS updated the criteria to earn the 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK awards, including the requirement of better protection for second-row occupants.

Genesis welcomed the new, tougher criteria and stepped up to the plate. A total of six Genesis models earned the coveted 2025 IIHS TSP and TSP+ ratings under the more stringent IIHS regulations in 2025 — the 2025 GV60, 2025-26 GV70 (built after April 2024), 2025-26 Electrified GV70, 2026 G80 (built after June 2025), 2025 GV80, and 2025 Genesis G90. IIHS awards only apply to U.S. models.

However, over in Europe, Genesis has also won top honors from the European New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). The Genesis G70, GV70, G80 and GV80 won “5-star” NCAP ratings in 2021, and the Genesis GV60 received a 5-star rating from NCAP in 2022.

Beyond Just Crash Testing

Genesis vehicles do well in independent safety evaluations because they are a part of a rigorous and comprehensive Group-level culture of safety technology development and testing. Before Hyundai Motor Group even releases a new model or submits it for outside testing, it tests it in-house at its R&D Center in Namyang, a 40,000-square-meter facility specifically designed and built in 2005 for thorough safety testing.

Within the Center, the Group spends about 4,000 hours and $7 million to run approximately 100 crash tests involving 27 different types of crash test dummies to make sure each new car model has the highest possible level of crash safety. The crash tests are only a small part of the safety testing process; most of the time is taken up in analyzing the crash results to extract meaningful insights. This data, combined with real-world accident reports from national highway and safety organizations worldwide, is used to develop and refine safety features, including innovations like the world’s first composite crash airbag developed by the automaker in 2019.

The result of all this testing is a comprehensive suite of preventative technologies that work together to reduce the likelihood of accidents. Here are some of the most notable safety technologies that can be found in Genesis vehicles:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA):  Uses a combination of radar and front-facing cameras to scan the road ahead for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and even oncoming traffic at intersections. If a potential collision is detected, the system issues visual and audible warnings to alert the driver. If the driver does not react to the warning sounds, FCA can apply partial or full braking to either mitigate or entirely avoid impact.

Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA): Uses radar sensors on the rear corners to monitor adjacent lanes for approaching traffic. If a vehicle is detected, a warning light appears in the side mirror and an alert sounds inside the cabin. If the driver ignores the warning and attempts a lane change anyway, the system can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane or, in some situations, apply selective braking to prevent a collision.

Advanced Airbags: Vehicles made by Genesis include 8-10 different airbags to protect passengers in a variety of potential collisions. Front airbags exist for both the driver and front passenger. Also included on the driver’s side is a driver’s knee airbag to prevent leg injuries in a head-on collision. Side airbags inflate between the driver and the door, and between the passenger and the door, to prevent injuries from side impact collisions. Between the driver and front passenger is also a center side airbag that pops in between the two seats, reducing the chance of first-row occupants hitting each other’s heads or other objects in the event of a side collision. Only 10 car models in the U.S. have this type of safety measure installed. There are also two rollover curtain airbags that deploy from both sides of the roof rails above the front and rear doors that further protect the heads of occupants in the car in the event of side impact collisions. They also deploy if a rollover is detected in models that have rollover sensors.

Note: Availability of models and configurations may vary by market.

RÜSSELSHEIM AM MAIN, Germany, Nov. 6, 2025 — Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) has today announced the opening of a new €150 million facility at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center (HMETC) in Rüsselsheim am Main, Germany, marking a major milestone in its commitment to European innovation and engineering excellence.

Square Campus is the most significant investment in R&D facilities at HMETC since the opening of the Round Campus in 2003. It underpins the development of innovative, market-leading technologies and will play a vital role in the development of future Hyundai, Kia and Genesis models in Europe.

Tyrone Johnson, Managing Director at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center, said: “The investment at Square Campus is a clear sign of our commitment to the region and reflects the importance of Europe in our long-term growth strategy. The extensive new capabilities at HMETC give us more independence and flexibility while creating exciting new opportunities for collaboration between our brands. Fundamentally, Square Campus will also support us as we continue to grow our market share in Europe, developing new vehicles and technologies designed around the needs of our customers.”

Advanced Facility Unlocks New Capabilities

The 25,000 square meter site is equipped with the largest semi-anechoic chamber within the Group, allowing unrestricted Noise, Vibration and Harshness and drive-by noise testing with complete independence from weather conditions.

Highly advanced dyno facilities at Square Campus play a key role in development, allowing for the comprehensive testing of vehicles and individual components, compatible with all-electric, hybrid and ICE powertrain applications. The facility is also equipped with a new EV charging laboratory, a state-of-the-art driving simulator, and new facilities for extended Electronics System Development – including Over-the-Air-Updates, Cybersecurity and Advanced Driver Assistant Systems.

These industry-leading capabilities allow HMETC to test and validate every type of vehicle under real world conditions, while developing future products tailored to the unique expectations of European customers. The investment at Square Campus forms an essential part of the Group’s strategy, underlining its position as a leader in advanced technologies.

While real-world prototype testing will remain a crucial part of the development journey, Square Campus protects against the challenges associated with external outdoor testing and complements the Group’s existing global testing and knowledge-sharing programs.

Sustainable Design, Enhanced Collaboration

Square Campus supports the Group’s environmental objectives, incorporating recycled materials, photovoltaic panels and heat pump systems. This reflects the Group’s broader commitment to developing sustainable mobility solutions and achieving zero-tailpipe emissions globally by 2045.

The significant expansion is also a foundation for the continued growth of HMETC’s team, which has increased by 20% since 2024, with the organization now employing more than 500 employees. This investment in talent and technology simultaneously drives a new phase of integrated innovation, bringing together experts from across disciplines to advance the Group’s vision for sustainable, connected mobility.

European development will continue at HMETC’s facilities at the Nürburgring, opened in 2013. This facility was also expanded thanks to a €13 million investment in January 2025, with an additional 834 square meters of cutting-edge testing facilities, dedicated workshop areas and specialized laboratories. 

SEOUL/RIYADH, October 28, 2025 — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited Saudi Arabia, the Middle East's largest economy and a nation undergoing major industrial transformation. Chung met with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, to review the Group's local growth strategy and explore future business opportunities. 

During his visit, Executive Chair Chung held discussions with HRH the Crown Prince covering a wide range of topics including the automotive industry and smart cities. This marked the first one-on-one meeting between the two leaders, though they had previously met twice, including during the Crown Prince's 2022 visit to Korea. 

"Hyundai Motor Group deeply understands the meaning and importance of Saudi Vision 2030," said Executive Chair Chung." Based on our competitive business capabilities, we are participating in Saudi Arabia's giga projects and look forward to expanding collaboration in future energy sectors including renewable energy, hydrogen, Small Modular Reactor (SMR), and nuclear energy." 

Strategic Partnership for Vision 2030 

Saudi Arabia is pursuing "Vision 2030," a national development project aimed at diversifying its economy from energy-focused industries toward manufacturing and hydrogen energy. The kingdom is hosting international events including the World Expo and FIFA World Cup, positioning itself as one of the world's most prominent emerging economies. 

As the Middle East's largest automotive market, Saudi Arabia is actively attracting global automakers, including Hyundai Motor Company, with the long-term goal of becoming an automotive hub serving not only the Middle East but also North Africa. 

Executive Chair Chung expressed gratitude for the Saudi government's continued interest and support, outlining Hyundai Motor Group's ongoing collaborative projects and future plans as a partner in realizing Saudi Arabia's vision for mobility and other sectors. 

Regarding the new manufacturing facility, Chung stated, "Hyundai Motor is building a locally tailored factory with specialized equipment to meet Saudi Arabia's industrial demands and customer needs. We will also consider expanding production capacity based on future market conditions." 

New Production Hub Takes Shape 

Prior to meeting HRH the Crown Prince, Executive Chair Chung visited Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Middle East (HMMME) on October 26 at the King Salman Automotive Cluster to review construction progress. Together with José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, Executive Chair Chung engaged in a business update session with Hyundai Motor and Kia local leaders and held in-depth discussions with employees about growth strategies. 

"Establishing a production base in Saudi Arabia represents Hyundai Motor's new opportunity in the Middle East," Chung told employees working in extreme heat. "We must thoroughly prepare in every aspect to deliver mobility that exceeds customer expectations on time, in an environment different from our previous bases—characterized by high temperatures and desert conditions." 

José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company said: "Our new Saudi Arabia production facility demonstrates Hyundai's long-term commitment to the Middle East's largest automotive market. This plant plays a strategic role in our global mid-term plan while supporting Vision 2030. We're combining Hyundai's manufacturing excellence with Saudi Arabia's talented workforce to deliver mobility solutions across automotive, smart cities, hydrogen energy, and future mobility." 

HMMME, the first Hyundai Motor production facility in the Middle East, is a cornerstone for establishing Hyundai as a leading brand in Saudi Arabia. The joint venture is 30 percent owned by Hyundai Motor and 70 percent by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Construction began in May 2025, with operations targeted to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. The facility will have an annual production capacity of 50,000 units, manufacturing both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles. 

The plant combines Hyundai Motor's innovative manufacturing technology with Saudi Arabia's talented workforce and infrastructure, positioning it to play a crucial role in the growth and development of Saudi Arabia's mobility ecosystem. 

Hyundai Motor plans to operate HMMME as a high-quality vehicle production hub by implementing multi-model production facilities to address diverse customer needs, applying simple and robust design structures for easy maintenance, and incorporating cooling and dust-proof measures to handle high temperatures and sand. 

Market Growth and Expansion Plans 

Hyundai Motor and Kia continue to grow in Saudi Arabia, selling 149,604 units through September 2025, an 8.5 percent increase year over year, with plans to reach approximately 210,000 units by year-end, up 5.9 percent from 2024. 

Leveraging enhanced brand appeal and stable supply through the Saudi production base, Hyundai Motor aims to become the leading automotive company in Saudi Arabia through strategies including Saudi-exclusive special editions, an expanded SUV lineup based on customer preferences, and launches of diverse eco-friendly vehicles including EVs, EREVs (extended-range electric vehicles), and HEVs. 

Kia plans to develop the recently launched Tasman pick-up truck as its flagship model while expanding EV and HEV supply. The brand is also focusing on capturing the PBV market in connection with Saudi Arabia's smart city projects. 

Expanding Collaboration Across Multiple Sectors 

Hyundai Motor Group is expanding partnerships with key Saudi institutions and companies across mobility, smart cities, and other sectors. 

In September 2024, Hyundai Motor signed an agreement with NEOM for "introducing eco-friendly future mobility," successfully demonstrating the Universe FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) bus last May on routes connecting NEOM's central business district with the high-altitude Trojena region at 2,080 meters above sea level. The Group plans to continue collaboration as NEOM's key partner in future mobility. 

Last month, Kia launched a PV5 pilot project with Red Sea Global (RSG), one of Saudi Arabia's giga project developers, following up on Hyundai Motor Group's March 2024 MOU with RSG. Kia will provide PV5 passenger models and technical training support, contributing to eco-friendly mobility adoption and ecosystem development while delivering customized mobility solutions optimized for RSG's tourism industry.

Hyundai Motor Group is also partnering with the MISK Foundation, a non-profit organization established by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2011, to foster local youth talent and explore smart city collaboration opportunities.

As Genesis prepares for the anticipated launch of its first Magma production model, the GV60 Magma, Donckerwolke shares a story that blends innovation, heritage and an evolving definition of a luxury automotive brand.

The Genesis of Magma

For Genesis, the road to Magma was years in the making.

According to Donckerwolke, Magma was born out of a desire to explore new emotionally resonant dimensions within Genesis’ lineup. It started as a test to determine if there was room for a more “emotional Genesis,” one with an “alter ego.”

That idea took shape through the GV80 Coupe Concept in New York in 2023, a project that pushed the boundaries of traditional luxury.

This exploration continued with limited-production projects such as the G80-based edition in Dubai, but the GV60 proved to be the perfect model to officially launch Magma.

“We start with a bundle of energy, which is the GV60. It’s also the youngest product we have in the brand,” Donckerwolke said. “So, it makes sense to start with this one, and then to mature the Magma lineup with different typologies of vehicles.”

This choice wasn’t about convenience. It was about establishing a deeper philosophy and process.

“Magma is always the best of the best of Genesis models,” he said. “It’s the superhero of Genesis; a bionic cocktail between the values of the original model, the donor vehicle and this extra facet.”

Defining Luxury High-Performance

Magma’s approach to high-performance luxury is distinctly nuanced. Unlike most performance models on the market that aim for aggressive, hardcore performance, Magma is defined by balance. Donckerwolke describes it as “rewarding, not challenging.” Instead of feeling like a car that requires its drivers to prove their skill, Magma is designed to complement and enhance its driver’s abilities, making the experience of performance driving feel seamless and empowering.

“It’s coming to a point where you feel you’re surprised by your abilities to drive fast or to drive sporty,” Donckerwolke said. “You have the adrenaline, but at the same time, it’s not challenging you by making you question your abilities,” he explained.

This philosophy is evident in Magma’s design DNA, which aligns with Genesis’ signature principle of “Athletic Elegance.” Here, form doesn’t just follow function.

“It’s a synchronization of form and function,” Donckerwolke said. “Its design should never be overpowering the appearance of the car. It should always be a balance.”

One of the standout features is Magma’s bold orange exterior, a visual statement that reinforces its dynamic character. The fiery hue serves as a symbol of Magma’s extroverted energy and identity, referencing Korea’s volcanic landscape and the unseen molten rock beneath.

A Decade in the Making

While Magma may feel like a natural progression for Genesis, Donckerwolke emphasizes that its introduction was carefully timed. Genesis, now approaching its 10th anniversary, has spent the better part of a short decade solidifying its place as a global luxury brand.

“We are basically doing a hundred years in ten,” he said.

Launching a high-performance model any earlier, Donckerwolke believes, would have been premature.

This patient approach has also allowed Genesis to differentiate itself from performance-based car brands, which embrace a more extroverted, aggressive identity, Genesis Magma offers a more refined and sophisticated take on performance luxury.

“It’s a natural evolution for Genesis,” Donckerwolke said. “Magma injects adrenaline into the brand while staying true to its luxury roots.”

Ultimate Proving Ground

The connection between Genesis Magma Racing and the development of future Genesis Magma production vehicles represents a strategic symbiosis that extends far beyond marketing appeal.

“The DNA of Genesis Magma Racing influences Magma,” said Donckerwolke. “It goes both ways. Magma is also allowing to curate and improve the DNA of Genesis. High performance has some constraints, which allow to make every single Genesis better.”

A racing environment provides unparalleled opportunities for technological advancement. Motorsports is the toughest testing environment you can find in the auto world. The high speeds, aerodynamics, cooling strategies and durability enough to last 24 hours together create a crucible that Genesis can use to further enhance its other models.

This was a core driver in Genesis’ ambitious and fast-paced foray into endurance racing through Genesis Magma Racing, which represents a calculated investment in the brand’s technological future.

“Hyperspeed is linked to the decision making,” Donckerwolke said. “We had this decision in September, and now we are exactly 12 months after that, and we have a car, and we have a team.”  Koreans describe their culture as a fast-paced type of living, or “bbali-bbali” life. “For me,” Donckerwolke said, “this is hyper-bbali-bbali.”

And already the technical innovations emerging from the GMR-001 Hypercar program are influencing the development of production Magma vehicles. The racing program has accelerated development of cutting-edge technologies specifically designed for Genesis models. These new technologies are anticipated to increase agility and performance throughout the Magma lineup in the future.

This approach exemplifies how Genesis leverages motorsport development to advance its production vehicle technologies. The racing program serves as an accelerated development platform where new propulsion systems and performance technologies can be tested under extreme conditions before being adapted for consumer applications. This continuous development cycle is essential for maintaining Genesis’ competitive edge.

A Distinctly Korean Identity

While Magma represents Genesis’ foray into a global high-performance market, its DNA remains rooted in Korean culture. For Donckerwolke, this cultural influence is one of the brand’s most defining characteristics.

“In Korea, customer care, customer satisfaction, is almost in the DNA of the culture,” he said.

This focus on customer experience is reflected in Magma’s philosophy, which prioritizes balance and sophistication over extremity.

“This is why Magma is not a hardcore sub-brand but is actually the best of the best of Genesis,” Donckerwolke said. “It modulates and increases some of the facets of the car without taking the car out of balance. It’s an iron fist in a velvet glove.”

Magma is a higher trim level within the Genesis lineup, proudly carrying the same Genesis badge as the marque’s other models. Unlike traditional sub-brands that are often track-focused and built to push the driver to their limits, the Magma trim is designed to elevate the driving experience by emphasizing comfort, precision, and ease — all while maintaining the versatility of an everyday sports car. Magma redefines luxury high-performance by combining dynamic capability with the refinement, sophistication, and emotional resonance that are hallmarks of the Genesis brand.

The Road Ahead

As Genesis continues to expand its portfolio, Magma is poised to play a pivotal role. Donckerwolke envisions Magma as a key piece of the larger Genesis puzzle, filling in gaps and gradually elevating the entire lineup.

“Magma is about us being able to fulfill customer wishes for individuality and emotionally resonant experiences, while increasing the overall quality of the Genesis brand,” he said. “It’s completing the whole Genesis picture.”

In just 10 years, Genesis has achieved what many brands take decades to accomplish. With Magma, it’s not only redefining luxury high-performance but also positioning itself as a global innovator.

Donckerwolke said, “And with Magma leading the charge, the future for Genesis is limitless.”

SEOUL, Sept. 30, 2025 — Genesis today announced that the GV60 Magma, set to become the brand’s first-ever high-performance model, has undergone the last stages of an extensive series of evaluations across some of the world’s most demanding environments, finalizing preparations for its upcoming debut.

Designed to open a new chapter in luxury high-performance, the GV60 Magma has undergone rigorous testing to perfect its driving dynamics and deliver both exhilarating performance and refined comfort.

Proven in Extreme Conditions Worldwide

Beginning earlier this year in Arjeplog, Sweden, the GV60 Magma faced formidable winter conditions before continuing through the searing heat of California, the high-altitude mountain ranges of New Zealand, and the diverse roadways of Spain.

At the California Proving Ground in the U.S., the GV60 Magma was pushed through extreme heat to validate power output, cooling efficiency, and thermal protection. 

In contrast, at the Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground in New Zealand, the vehicle faced sub-zero conditions at 1,500 meters above sea level, where engineers examined chassis precision, traction stability, braking robustness, and agile cornering on icy, wind-swept terrain.

These evaluations ensured the GV60 Magma delivers unwavering stability at high speeds and uncompromised ride comfort in any condition.

In September, Genesis engineers conducted the final stages of real-world assessments in Korea, driving from the Namyang R&D Center to Chuncheon and completing intensive laps at Inje Speedium Circuit.

These tests validated the GV60 Magma’s ability to balance powerful acceleration and handling precision with the refined comfort expected of a Genesis model.

Highways, mountainous terrain roads, congested urban streets, and racetrack environments were all incorporated to ensure the vehicle can seamlessly adapt to diverse driving conditions.

Hyundai Motor Group has long upheld a rigorous global testing standard, ensuring every vehicle meets the highest levels of quality, durability, and performance. From the Namyang R&D Center in Korea to the California Proving Ground in the U.S. and the Nürburgring in Germany, the Group leverages several world-class facilities worldwide to validate and refine its vehicles under the most demanding conditions.

A New Era of High-Performance Luxury

Set to be unveiled later this year, the GV60 Magma represents a pivotal milestone for Genesis as the brand marks its 10th anniversary. As Genesis’ first high-performance EV, the model combines a decade of innovation and luxury philosophy with cutting-edge performance engineering to deliver a truly distinctive driving experience.

LE CASTELLET, France, Sept. 1, 2025 — Genesis Magma Racing has completed its first full tests with the GMR-001 Hypercar (GMR-001). The car completed more than 500 laps at Circuit Paul Ricard over five days of testing in late August to start the exhaustive development schedule to prepare for the team’s debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026.

First Running Concentrates on Confirming Major Systems

The focus of the tests was calibrating the GMR-001’s major mechanical and electrical systems. The drivers concentrated their feedback on the behavior of the car when running different configurations of software controlling the power delivered by the car’s 3.2-liter twin-turbo V-8.

“We had a program that we were able to follow, so that's very promising for the whole team,” said Genesis Magma Racing Technical Director FX Demaison. “At the moment, we’re purely focused on software, especially on the powertrain. It’s a hybrid car with many features that we need to manage properly.”

Beginning the first testing phase at Circuit Paul Ricard allowed the Genesis Magma Racing engineers to work together closely with chassis builder ORECA, taking full advantage of the track’s proximity to both the team’s race base and the workshop where the GMR-001 was built.

While the car’s systems remained the primary goal throughout the test, the team could also start to work on the handling balance of the car, assessing its behavior after each adjustment.

“We're getting to the point already where we are talking about the performance of the car, which I didn't honestly expect to be doing,” admitted Genesis Magma Racing Chief Engineer Justin Taylor. “The drivers are giving us the feedback we need on all the systems and on the side, they're already looking at how to make the GMR-001 fast.”

Drivers Take Positive First Impressions from Test Running

The tests were the first opportunity for the team and drivers André Lotterer and Pipo Derani to assess the car on race tires and at a circuit that was far more representative of WEC venues than the small facilities used for the initial running.

“On our first shakedowns, there were just baby steps to see that the car could move under its own power, could shift its own gears,” said Taylor. “Now we've been trying to push more towards being a real race car.”

“We had some driving on the smaller tracks, but you can't really push there,” said Lotterer. “The GMR-001 is obviously well born — the feedback is very natural, instinctive and it's fun to drive, but we are still working on everything.”

“It’s always an unknown when you jump into a new car,” added Derani. “You have high expectations, but with the GMR-001 we have a good base to start working from.”

Genesis Magma Racing Engineers Tackle Minor Issues at Circuit and Workshop

After initial short runs, the team was able to begin completing longer runs as early as the first morning of the test. As expected at any first test, minor issues were identified by the team. “It's a new car and new engine,” explained Demaison. “It's normal to have issues, but we have a good team of engineers to solve them as quickly as possible.”

He added, “This is why you go testing. We're here to see as many problems as possible and to be able to fix them as quickly as possible.”

The break between test days gave the team’s engineers time to work with their ORECA counterparts on solutions away from track, before confirming them on their return to the circuit. The testing and development work with the GMR-001 will continue over the coming months, with the next phases of work aiming to ensure the car’s reliability over a race distance, maximize performance, and confirm Genesis Magma Racing’s operational structure at the circuit.

By prioritizing research in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) technology, the Group ensures its vehicles deliver more than just a quiet ride — they create a space of unparalleled comfort and sophistication. Genesis is harnessing these learnings to pursue a more tranquil acoustic environment.

Genesis has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional customer satisfaction, earning recognition from J.D. Power in multiple categories for eight consecutive years. At the heart of this achievement is the brand’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing its customers’ needs, offering intuitive technologies designed to enhance every aspect of the driving experience. This dedication stems from Genesis’ pursuit of crafting emotionally resonant and memorable journeys.

And for EV customers, a key factor that plays into creating a memorable ride is based on how quiet and comfortable the journey is. To meet this demand, the Namyang R&D Center conducts rigorous testing with a focus on achieving superior quality and refinement. Facilities such as the Road Noise Testing Lab and the Immersive Sound Studio reflect this effort, enabling the researchers to study, control and optimize noise and vibration.

Road Noise Testing Lab: Where Tire Noise and Vibration are Reduced

In the Road Noise Testing Lab, NVH performance — essential to the development of every new Genesis vehicle — is meticulously assessed to ensure superior quality and refinement. By simulating road-induced vibrations caused by surface irregularities, the lab allows researchers to evaluate and minimize the resulting interior noise under controlled conditions. Spanning 10 by 14 meters, the lab is lined with advanced sound-absorbing materials to eliminate echoes and ensure precise testing. At its core is a chassis dynamometer installed beneath the floor, enabling vehicles to be operated in a stationary test environment. The dynamometer’s rollers, which are in direct contact with the tires, are coated with surface patches that replicate real-world road textures. This setup allows Genesis to simulate a variety of driving conditions with remarkable accuracy.

Road noise is an unavoidable aspect of driving, stemming primarily from the friction and vibrations generated between the tires and the road surface. The nature and intensity of this noise can vary significantly depending on the road conditions. Even with identical tires, differences in road surface friction and load characteristics can dramatically affect the vibrational forces produced by the tires. These vibrations are transmitted through the suspension system and into the vehicle’s body, where they can potentially amplify into audible noise within the cabin. Understanding and controlling these dynamics is a critical focus area for Genesis.

Replicating Real-World Road Conditions

Accurately measuring and analyzing road noise, which changes based on varying road surface conditions, requires testing across diverse environments. While real-world road testing is often limited by uncontrollable factors like location and weather, the Road Noise Testing Lab provides a controlled indoor setting where consistent conditions can be maintained. This controlled environment not only ensures precise analysis but also enables researchers to replicate specific scenarios repeatedly, significantly accelerating the vehicle development process. By removing external variables, the lab allows Genesis to refine and optimize NVH performance in its vehicles.

The surface patches used in road noise testing are modeled to replicate a variety of real-world road textures, including rough, bumpy and smooth surfaces. Significant effort is invested to ensure these patches produce results that closely mirror actual driving conditions. For example, a 3D camera is employed to scan the rough surfaces of key roads, capturing every detail needed to create realistic road surface patches. Additionally, factors such as the rebound coefficient of materials like asphalt and concrete are carefully considered to reproduce the physical properties of real road surfaces as accurately as possible. This attention to detail ensures that Genesis can effectively evaluate and refine its vehicles for optimal driving comfort and a serene sound experience.

Road noise can be classified into booming, resonance, rumbling and high-frequency sounds, with tonal variations influenced by the tire’s grip and friction characteristics on different road surfaces. To fully understand these dynamics, tests are conducted across a range of driving scenarios, including acceleration, deceleration and steady-speed conditions. Standard noise measurements are taken from the driver’s seat, providing key data on cabin acoustics. In some models, additional microphones are also strategically positioned at the ear level of rear-seat passengers. This comprehensive approach ensures that noise levels and tonal qualities are evaluated across the vehicle, delivering a refined and consistent acoustic experience for all occupants.

Managing Vibrations to Minimize Road Noise

While reducing road noise may typically be considered the responsibility of tire manufacturers, it also highlights the expertise of automakers in creating a holistic driving experience. Tires play the most significant role in generating road noise, but the suspension system and vehicle body are equally crucial in managing it. If these systems fail to absorb the vibrations transmitted through the tires, those forces can amplify, resulting in heightened road noise within the cabin.

For example, when vibrations from the tires are transferred to the suspension system, and the vibration-damping performance of components like bushings is insufficient, these vibrations can travel through the suspension and into the vehicle body. Low-frequency vibrations below 500 Hertz, which are challenging to absorb or dampen with interior materials such as trim, can create an unpleasant experience for both the driver and passengers. Beyond their impact on NVH, these tire-induced vibrations also affect fuel efficiency, handling and overall driving comfort.

To deliver a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, the R&D Center utilizes advanced mechanical design techniques to optimize the performance of underbody components and bushings. Researchers analyze isolation performance and phase relationships to ensure that vibrations from the wheel hub assembly — where the wheels and tires are mounted — are not directly transmitted to the vehicle body. By measuring and analyzing the vibrational sensations experienced by the driver, every detail is refined to enhance the enjoyment of the driving experience.

One of the defining advantages of an EV is its quiet and serene driving experience. Without the masking effect of engine noise present in internal combustion engine vehicles, external sounds become more noticeable, demanding a more sophisticated NVH design. Road noise, an inevitable byproduct of driving, is no exception. To address this, the Noise and Vibration Technology Team performs rigorous road noise testing while evaluating sound-absorbing materials and various components. This approach allows the team to continually refine NVH performance, delivering an even quieter and more comfortable driving experience.

Precision Sound Testing in a Virtual Environment

The Immersive Sound Studio is a facility that harnesses virtual reality (VR) technology to analyze and optimize automotive sound with precision. Equipped with VR devices and a spatial sound system, the studio validates a wide range of acoustic characteristics throughout the entire vehicle development process, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency. A standout feature is the Virtual Environment Evaluation Lab, which recreates a variety of sounds — such as engine noise, wind noise and road noise — within a 3D virtual space designed to replicate real-world testing conditions. This innovative approach allows Genesis to refine the quality of sound for elevated auditory comfort.

Sound Analysis Through Virtual Reality

The Virtual Environment Evaluation Lab is a VR-powered simulation space that replicates a wide range of environments, including outdoor test tracks, model roads, anechoic chambers, tunnels, intersections and even indoor parking lots. Built using Unreal Engine — a leading tool in 3D game development — the lab seamlessly integrates advanced VR technology into the vehicle development process. This virtual setup not only enhances the precision of environmental simulations but also enables global collaboration. For instance, research teams and facilities from around the world can participate in joint evaluations remotely, streamlining the development process while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

The purpose of adopting VR environments in vehicle development is to reduce sensory bias. Humans perceive information through a combination of the five senses, but when only one sense is isolated it can heighten and distort the perception of an experience. For example, the sound of driving at 100 kilometers per hour, played at the same volume while stationary, may be perceived as louder. By incorporating VR to provide visual cues — such as the perspective from a moving vehicle — sound can be evaluated within the context of real driving conditions.

The Virtual Environment Evaluation Lab takes sound analysis to the next level by enabling both visualization and in-depth evaluation of acoustic properties. Rather than simply playing pre-recorded audio, the lab uses virtual sound that replicates the acoustic transmission characteristics of a vehicle. These sound properties are displayed visually alongside the actual sound, creating a comprehensive analysis platform. For instance, when testing the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) for EVs, the lab can evaluate how the sound experienced by pedestrians changes based on the placement of the speakers. By combining auditory information with visual context, the lab allows for more accurate and precise evaluations of the soundscape as experienced by both customers and external audiences.

Building a virtual sound environment requires the collection and integration of extensive acoustic data. Real vehicle sounds are recorded using state-of-the-art technologies to ensure precise and accurate acoustic replication. For example, when capturing spatial sound, a spherical microphone array with 64 tightly packed sound sensors is employed to collect three-dimensional audio, providing a fully immersive sound profile. Additionally, to record sound from the driver’s perspective, a proprietary helmet microphone system is used to measure road and interior noise exactly as it would be experienced by the driver.

A Space Where the Sounds of Future Mobility are Designed

The Immersive Sound Studio is a facility where measurement and analysis results of vehicle NVH and driving sounds are brought to life through spatial audio. What sets it apart is the world’s first implementation of a “variable spatial sound speaker system.” This innovative system allows seamless switching between fourth-order Ambisonics (25 channels) and Dolby Atmos (7.1.4 channels) using a sophisticated three-dimensional speaker array paired with a real-time control system.

The speaker configuration within the Immersive Sound Studio adapts based on whether Ambisonics or Dolby Atmos is being utilized, each serving distinct purposes in sound analysis and experience. Ambisonics is a technology that captures and reproduces the sound field characteristics of a space using mathematical analysis and combination processes to measure sound from a single point in the environment. In contrast, Dolby Atmos is designed for creating and experiencing content like music or films, enabling each sound element to emanate from specific directions as intended by its creator. Reflecting these differences, Ambisonics is primarily employed for NVH research in vehicles, ensuring accurate replication of the soundscape, while Dolby Atmos is used for entertainment-focused studies, refining the in-cabin audio experience for enjoyment and engagement.

The Immersive Sound Studio produces spatial audio that delivers an immersive sense of realism, closely mirroring actual driving conditions. This technology enables the precise reproduction of the spatial perception and realism of sounds as experienced by customers during real-world driving. These highly accurate sound simulations are integrated into all sound-related development and testing processes, ensuring that the auditory experience aligns with what customers actually hear. This customer-centric approach enhances decision-making and streamlines the development process. Additionally, the studio supports accelerated progress through collaborative evaluations with overseas research centers and external partners, fostering innovation and efficiency on a global scale.

Meanwhile, the Virtual Sound Group, responsible for vehicle sound development, is accelerating the advancement of virtual acoustic environment technologies in preparation for future mobility. In the era of autonomous vehicles, the orientation and arrangement of interior seats may frequently change based on need, necessitating the development of innovative sound control technologies to address these challenges. Additionally, to deliver consistent, high-quality sound experiences to customers, testing under diverse conditions is essential. The Virtual Sound Group is preparing to actively adapt to the evolving mobility landscape by conducting these tests within virtual acoustic environments.

Genesis EVs are known for more than just their impressive performance. This is rooted in their ability to deliver truly satisfying and immersive driving experiences. Each Genesis EV reflects the unwavering dedication and meticulous effort of researchers committed to crafting vehicles of exceptional quality. At the Namyang R&D Center, these efforts continue tirelessly, with a focus on overcoming the challenges of weather, time and space. Through advanced research and innovation, Genesis remains steadfast in its mission to develop even more refined, customer-focused EVs that set new standards in luxury and excellence.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Aug. 21, 2025 — JD Power today designated Genesis as its highest ranked brand overall and in the premium segment in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study. Genesis earned the top Innovation Index score by offering a range of advanced technologies across its product lineup. This represents the fifth year in a row that Genesis took top honors in the U.S. TXI study. The Genesis GV80 SUV was awarded best connected vehicle technology for a phone-based digital key, known as Genesis Digital Key 2, in the premium category.

“At Genesis, we pride ourselves in making vehicle ownership a personalized experience by treating every customer as our ‘Son-nim,’ or honored guest,” said Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “We prioritize offering intuitive technologies that enhance the driving experience and are tailored to consumer needs. We’re delighted that these efforts have been recognized by our customers for five consecutive years.”

The Genesis GV80 was awarded the connected vehicle technology award for Genesis Digital Key 2, which allows the owner to access and drive the vehicle using their mobile phone. Genesis Digital Key 2 is compatible with Apple, Samsung and Google Wallet, as well as watchOS and Android Smart Watch.

The TXI Study measures the effectiveness of emerging technologies automotive brands bring to market on a 1,000-point scale. The index combines the level of adoption of new technologies for each brand with excellence in execution. The measurement of execution examines how much owners like the technologies and how many problems they experience using them.

The TXI Study analyzes 40 technologies divided into five categories: comfort & convenience, driver assist, electric vehicle, connected vehicle, and smart vehicle.

LE CASTELLET, France, Aug. 13, 2025 — Genesis Magma Racing is preparing for the first full test of the GMR-001 Hypercar (GMR-001), following the completion of the first car by chassis partner ORECA, and a successful shakedown.

Appearing in bare carbon fiber, the car is the first of three development chassis to be built in the coming months to support the development and homologation of the GMR-001 ahead of its race debut in the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship. 

Finished Car Brings Different Strands of Development Together 

The completion and shakedown of the first functioning GMR-001 chassis is the latest milestone for Genesis Magma Racing since the official announcement of the project last December. The rapid progress as the project continues according to schedule is the tangible sign of the ‘Hyperspeed’ philosophy at the heart of the team.

“We are at a time, where we seem to be passing milestones every day, but this is exactly what we must be doing.” said Genesis Magma Racing Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul. “After planning for and talking about these moments for the last eight months, to be able to see a finished car running exactly as we planned is incredibly exciting.”

He continued: “We are also starting the process of moving into the new Genesis Magma Racing facility at Le Castellet. The start of testing is the beginning of bringing the different streams of work together — the design and development of the chassis, the design and development of the engine, equipping a workshop and building the team.”

Preparations for First Tests Underway

Following the installation of the engine, hybrid system and gearbox, along with the successful fire-up of the car last month, ORECA mechanics completed the build, before delivering the car to Genesis Magma Racing engineers, who will take the lead in testing the car. As the chassis partner, ORECA will remain part of the long-term project, supporting the development of the GMR-001.

Genesis Magma Racing drivers André Lotterer and Pipo Derani, who will drive in the upcoming tests, have undertaken sessions in the simulator, completing calibration of the virtual model of the GMR-001 and establishing a baseline set-up to maximize the benefits from the first running. The final preparations for the first full test were completed at a successful shakedown of the car to check the mechanical and electrical systems, which gave both Lotterer and Derani their first chance to drive the GMR-001.

After the initial running, the team will embark on an extensive testing schedule at circuits around Europe, with findings from each test analyzed and applied by the team’s engineers and mechanics at the Genesis Magma Racing facility and confirmed by the drivers’ continuing simulator work.

Genesis Magma Racing Technical Director FX Demaison said: “Every bit of running we do with the GMR-001 Hypercar in 2025 is extremely valuable. The work in preparation that André and Pipo have done on the simulator and during the shakedown means that we have a good starting point for the first tests. Working with our chassis partners at ORECA throughout the testing and development, we can quickly take the data from each test, find a solution and validate it to be able to take full advantage of every moment.”

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Aug. 1, 2025 — The New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) has recognized Genesis in three award categories following its annual Winter Testing, further solidifying the brand’s reputation for delivering vehicles that excel in performance, design and year-round usability.

The 2025 Genesis GV80, named Winter SUV of the Year, was praised for its confident handling, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and elevated comfort in challenging weather conditions. The GV80 Coupe, a bold new addition to the Genesis lineup, earned the title of Best Premium Midsize SUV, while the Genesis G80 was honored as Best Premium Car, continuing its legacy as a refined and technologically advanced sedan.

“Genesis is committed to providing vehicles that not only deliver on design and innovation, but also meet the real-world demands of customers,” said Tedros Mengiste, Chief Operating Officer of Genesis Motor North America. “Winter performance and safety are essential, and these recognitions from the New England Motor Press Association reinforce the strength of our lineup in all conditions.”

NEMPA is the only automotive press association that formally conducts cold-weather testing. Each year, NEMPA’s annual awards recognize vehicles that offer exceptional capability and safety for drivers in the New England region. Winners are selected by a panel of veteran automotive journalists who evaluate vehicles in real-world winter driving conditions.

“At a time when established luxury brands are cheapening their products and skating by on name recognition, Genesis continues to lead on quality and originality in every vehicle segment,” said Clifford Atiyeh, President of the New England Motor Press Association. “This is a brand that resonates in New England, where many buyers prefer quiet luxury and strong value from their investments. The G80, the GV80, and the GV80 Coupe do not miss a beat. For year-round elegant design and driving enjoyment, these Genesis models overdeliver in our testing.”

LE CASTELLET, France, July 24, 2025 — Development of Genesis Magma Racing’s GMR-001 Hypercar passed another major milestone on July 9, with the first fire-up of the car taking place at Le Castellet, France, exactly on schedule.

The moment was not only a key stage in the overall project, which will bring Genesis Magma Racing into the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). It was also a pivotal moment in the build of the first development car that will be used during the team’s on-track testing during the rest of the year.

GMR-001 Hypercar Comes to Life in Latest Landmark Moment

Work to build the GMR-001 Hypercar development chassis began immediately after the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Taking place at ORECA's workshop, close to the location of Genesis Magma Racing’s race base and Circuit Paul Ricard, the initial build work was completed by ORECA's experienced technicians, with mechanics and engineers from Genesis Magma Racing involved at key stages.

The installation and fire-up of the V-8 twin-turbo engine was one such vital point. “In a project like this, you have certain dates circled and this was one of them,” said Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul. “The car fire-up was the GMR-001 Hypercar coming to life — a huge step in the story of Genesis Magma Racing. To reach this point on schedule is already a huge achievement and a perfect way to start the next stage of the development process.”

The car fire-up marked the latest landmark in the development of the powertrain of the GMR-001 Hypercar. As well as running the engine though a rev range in each of the seven gears in the transmission, engineers were also able to test the car’s hybrid system, charging the batteries from the engine and then directing the energy to the rear driveshafts, as would happen on track.

Work on the engine began in June 2024 with Hyundai Motorsport’s Powertrain Department starting work on the design, which is derived from the motor in the team’s championship winning FIA World Rally Championship entries. The engine was first successfully fired up in February. Since then, the company’s engineers have put the engine and transmission through months of testing on different dynos to validate simulations of performance and efficiency. The successful integration of the engine into the GMR-001 Hypercar chassis now opens the way to the next stage of testing and development work, with the first track running planned for the end of August.

Car Build Process Combines Expertise of Different Departments and Partners

The close cooperation between Genesis Magma Racing and the team’s chassis partner, ORECA, has been central throughout the car build and fire-up process, with the two groups working in tandem to meet the tight deadlines dictated by the GMR-001 Hypercar's development schedule.

Genesis Magma Racing Technical Director François-Xavier Demaison said, “The car build has been about bringing everything together — all the expertise we have within Genesis Magma Racing and at ORECA.”

He added, “It’s now when we can start physically connecting all the different strands of development work that we’ve been following for the last year with our powertrain and design teams. The successful GMR-001 Hypercar fire-up is confirmation of our work so far, but also the start of the next stage of the development that comes with testing.”

The final stages of the car build are still continuing, with ORECA and Genesis Magma Racing staff members now completing the first car for the start of testing, before switching focus to further chassis to accelerate the development of the GMR-001 Hypercar before the homologation process for the 2026 season begins.

This collaboration is the result of a formal agreement between the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior and Northern Gulf Trading Company, under which the ministry received a fleet of G90 vehicles. These vehicles have been customized to meet the official specifications and design standards approved by the ministry’s General Traffic Department.

This milestone further reflects the growing trust that Genesis enjoys among governmental institutions in Kuwait. In 2021, the G90 was selected by the National Assembly of Kuwait as the official transportation vehicle for its members, demonstrating the brand’s reliability and its capability to meet the highest standards of official use.

Omar Alzubaidi, CEO of Genesis Middle East & Africa, stated, "We are honored by the Ministry of Interior’s selection of the Genesis G90 for official ceremonial and protocol use in Kuwait. This milestone reflects the growing recognition of Genesis as a trusted luxury mobility partner across the region. The G90 exemplifies our unwavering commitment to safety, innovation and refined design — values that align with the high standards of governmental institutions. We look forward to continuing to support Kuwait’s leadership with premium experiences that embody the true essence of modern luxury."

Commenting on the agreement, Raed Turjuman, CEO of Northern Gulf Trading Company, said, "The adoption of the Genesis G90 as the official vehicle for ceremonies and protocol is a source of immense pride for both our company and our brand. It reflects the significant trust placed in us by the Ministry of Interior. We are fully committed to delivering a premium experience that aligns with this trust and will provide continued support to ensure the highest level of service throughout the duration of this partnership. We are confident that this decision will further elevate Genesis’ standing as one of the leading luxury automotive brands in the Kuwaiti market."

Turjuman added, “Genesis has succeeded in meeting the expectations of its clients by offering exceptional models that blend luxury, advanced engineering and innovation, delivering a driving experience unmatched by any other brand. We believe Genesis will continue to make steady progress toward further excellence, and our commitment to delivering superior services will lead to even greater achievements.”

With its status as Genesis' flagship model, the G90 combines refined design with cutting-edge technology, ensuring the highest levels of comfort and safety on the road. As one of the most luxurious full-size sedans in its class, the G90 boasts an elegant exterior design and a richly appointed cabin crafted from premium materials and integrated with the latest technologies. It is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that delivers up to 375 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a smooth and well-balanced driving experience.

The G90 is equipped with a multi-chamber air suspension system and rear-wheel steering that enhance ride comfort and agility. Additional advanced features include automated controls such as soft-close doors, a virtual space system and mood curator technology, all designed to elevate the driving experience to new heights of luxury and sophistication.

Disclaimer: The vehicles in the photos are for ceremonial use.

Exquisite Exterior Details

The exterior of the redesigned Electrified GV70 showcases Genesis' signature “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy with more sophisticated details.

The most noticeable change is none other than the newly designed Crest Grille. Its diamond-shaped G-Matrix pattern gradually diminishes in size toward the bottom, creating a three-dimensional effect that emphasizes the vehicle's futuristic, electric character.

The bolder bumper design further enhances this look, with a wider intake area that adds to the SUV’s powerful stance.

The iconic headlamps, a hallmark of Genesis’ Two Lines design language, now come with Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology, improving light output while accentuating the elegance of the front fascia.   

From the side, the redesigned Electrified GV70 boasts new 20-inch wheels finished in matte dark gray. The new wheels showcase a sporty five-spoke design optimized for aerodynamics and include resonators applied to the rim area where the wheels and tires connect, effectively reducing road noise.

The 19-inch wheels also come in matte dark gray, completing the rugged yet sophisticated look.

The rear design has been refined with a focus on clarity and visibility. The turn signals, which used to be on the bumper, have been integrated into the rear combination lamps, improving their visibility to following vehicles. The high-mounted stop lamp on the rear spoiler has been streamlined, overall resulting in a cleaner appearance.

Interior Oasis of Calm and Technology

Slipping inside the redesigned Electrified GV70, passengers are greeted by an interior that embodies the brand’s minimalist "Beauty of White Space" principle. The cabin is designed to be both technologically advanced and luxuriously comfortable, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

The most striking feature is the new 27-inch integrated wide display, which seamlessly combines the instrument cluster and the infotainment system into a single, panoramic screen. The steering wheel has been redesigned with a new emblem and refined stitching details, adding a touch of elegance to the driver's experience.

The central air vents have been lowered to the former climate control interface, while the climate controls have been integrated with the center console and transitioned to a touch control method, resulting in a more modern design.

Elevating the interior ambiance is the new “Milky Way Pattern Mood Lighting.” Inspired by the Milky Way, this unique feature creates a mesmerizing effect with delicate pinpricks of light reminiscent of stars. Complementing the mood light is the mood lamp, which extends from the upper door trim to the center fascia, enveloping the cabin in a soothing and sophisticated glow.

The lighting elements beautifully enhance the new interior color option, “Icy Blue/Glacier White Two-Tone,” which, along with the Nappa leather and PET suede materials, accentuates the luxurious feel of the distinctive driving experience.

Performance Upgrade

On the road, the redesigned Electrified GV70 delivers impressive performance. A key upgrade is the new 84 kilowatt-hour fourth-generation battery technology with increased capacity, achieved not by increasing the number of battery cells but by improving the energy density per cell from 618 watt-hours per liter to 670. This higher energy density allows for an extended driving range compared to the previous model.

With a powerful performance of up to 360 kilowatts (approximately 490 metric horsepower) in Boost Mode, the driving range on a single charge reaches 423 kilometers with 19-inch wheels, an improvement from the predecessor’s 400 kilometers with the same-sized wheels.

Equipped with dual motors at the front and rear, the redesigned model pulls off a maximum output of 320 kilowatts (about 435 metric horsepower) and a peak torque of 600 newton-meters (approximately 61.2 kilogram-force meters). With Boost Mode, these figures rise to a maximum output of 360 kilowatts (about 490 metric horsepower) and a peak torque of 700 newton-meters (about 71.4 kilogram-force meters).

The latest EV model also boasts excellent fast-charging performance. Using a 350-kilowatt ultra-fast charger, the battery can go up from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 19 minutes.

What’s more, the improved Battery Conditioning Mode maintains the battery at an optimal temperature for fast charging, backing performance in hot weather.

Next-Level Comfort

A key improvement in the comfortable ride of the latest Electrified GV70 lies in the rear suspension bushings. The hydro bushings at the front of the rear crossmember, along with the optimized rear power electric (PE) mount bushings, effectively reduce vibrations, while the optimized steering gear ratio enhances handling agility.

The Preview Electronically Controlled Suspension, which contributed significantly to the previous model’s comfortable ride, has been further refined with the addition of Highway Body motion Control (HBC) technology, activated when the Highway Driving Assist feature is engaged. Together, these systems minimize body roll during sudden acceleration and braking.

Fun and Convenient

Maximizing the joy of driving, a feature called Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) has been introduced to replicate the shifting sensation of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles through drive motor control. The Active Sound Design has also been newly tuned, and a dedicated animation appears in the cluster when Boost Mode is activated, strengthening driver immersion.

A new EV power control technology allows passengers to conveniently access utility mode by pressing the start button once without pressing the brake pedal. While driving is not possible in this mode, users can still use features like vehicle-to-load.

The charging port, which used to require manual operation, is now electronic and can be controlled from inside the vehicle. Lighting and heating elements have been incorporated as well, making it easy to charge at nights or in cold weather.

Whether in need of a stylish and comfortable daily driver or a capable and versatile weekend vehicle, the Electrified GV70 is sure to impress.

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

The Genesis Magma Racing Trajectory Program supports drivers’ development, working toward promoting them into the Genesis Magma Racing Hypercar lineup for the 2026 FIA WEC.

Fresh off the heels of an exhilarating start to the season where she scored an Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) class victory with her teammates at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in April and also won the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) at the Circuit Paul Ricard in May, Jamie Chadwick is poised to leave an indelible mark on the track and beyond while inspiring a new generation of race drivers across the globe.

Chadwick recently took some time out of her busy schedule to speak to the Genesis Newsroom about her journey with Genesis Magma Racing, highlighting the innovative spirit, advanced technology and collaborative team dynamics that have further fueled her passion and ambition for motorsports.

What were your initial impressions of the Genesis Magma Racing team, and what aspects of the team and technology drew you to join the Trajectory Program?

My initial impressions were that it’s an incredible Program, and obviously one that I would love to be a part of. Obviously, hypercar now is becoming one of the most competitive forms of motor sport out there. So, for the Genesis brand to be aligning with it, and coming into it, and starting for us with the Trajectory Program has been incredibly exciting. The team members that they’ve brought in, particularly coming from the World Rally Championship, bring a huge amount of experience, and that’s really exciting. And then, from a technology point of view, I think what we’re seeing with the hypercar technology, the hybrid engines, and then obviously being tested at some of the hardest races in the world, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is incredibly exciting.

You’ve had a front-row seat since the beginning. What excites you most about being a part of this journey?

I think for me the most exciting part is the potential Trajectory, to use the term of the Program that I’m a part of, yeah, obviously, the hypercar is very much the end goal of my career. It’s the highest category of endurance racing, and a level I’d love to reach that is hugely competitive at the moment as well. So, I think what excites me is seeing that pathway and then being part of a team that I think can have a huge amount of success within the FIA World Endurance Championship [WEC]. It’s great to be a part of, and it’s cool to see it from the very beginning, its inception.

You were in Dubai for the launch of Genesis Magma Racing in December last year. What was that moment like for you, standing beside the car that’s redefining both your career and the brand?

It’s incredibly exciting. I think for me, seeing any road car manufacturer come into our sport and into endurance racing, is always very cool to see. But also, when you look at the people that are surrounding the GMR-001 Hypercar project — the likes of Andre Lotterer, Cyril, Pipo, Jacky Ickx — being a part of the brand is incredibly exciting.  I think it shows that they are going to be a force when they come into the WEC.

How do you and the team leverage telemetry and other data and analytics to redefine or to refine both your driving techniques and race strategies during a competitive race weekend?

Using data and the technology we have available to us is hugely important. It’s instant. We can use it immediately to change things, to improve, to see what’s better, what’s worse. It’s a big part of our sport, and it’s part of the reason I love the sport so much — getting that immediate feedback, especially when you’re working with so many experienced people within our team. It really helps us, I think, particularly on the strategy side. Being able to make quick decisions with the information that you and the engineers have available has definitely helped us with the results that we’ve had. And then, from a driving point of view, you can see exactly where you need to improve. With the experienced teammates that I have as well, that really helps us make quick improvements.

This year for learning has already brought strong results for the team. How would you describe the collective effort behind those performances, and what has been the key to that success?

This year so far, we’ve had a lot more success than I think we were anticipating early on. We came into the season just wanting to learn as much as possible. We loosely gave ourselves a top five target, but winning the LMP2 in the opening two races of the European Le Mans Series championship has definitely exceeded our expectations. I really think the reason for it has been the big team element. I think we’ve worked really well, particularly from a strategy point of view. We haven’t made big mistakes, and we’ve managed to kind of pick up and make the most of others, in that sense, in two tricky races that haven’t been easy to manage. So, yeah, I think teamwork has been a huge part of it. We’ve had a really reliable and good car for the last few races as well. So, fingers crossed, we can keep that momentum going forwards.

What are you most eager to achieve in the long run?

I think in the long run my ultimate goal is to go to hypercar and compete at the highest level of endurance racing. In the short term, I obviously want to try and win more races in the ELMS championship, and with Le Mans coming up soon as well, of course, the goal is to go there and get the best result possible in our first 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Transitioning from other racing series to the Genesis Magma Racing Program presents unique challenges. Can you discuss how you’ve adapted, and what lessons you’ve learned so far?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is, I think, trying to adapt as much as possible. The car, every time you get in, is slightly different. You’ve got to constantly adapt to what you have, the different conditions, the different circumstances that you have in a race. So, the biggest lesson has to be adapting. And then, obviously, in an endurance race, it’s a long race, so it’s not all made or won in your stint. Often just trying to do the best job you can in that moment, make the most of the strategy you’ve got, and then giving the car to make the finishes is the biggest thing. And the main way that I feel like I’ve been able to adapt is by having a really good team with a lot of experience, which has helped me learn quickly. The IDEC Sport team has a huge amount of experience in this category, and I think being able to lean on them and have their support has helped a lot too.

What is the hardest lesson you’ve learned in motorsport?

I think that it doesn't matter what level you get to, you still have to work hard, and you’re always still learning. I think, in motorsport, it is never going to be plain sailing. The good days are always the good days, but to have those moments come together isn’t always easy. There are so many variables in our sport that it takes a lot for everything to come together. So yeah, you have a lot more bad days than good days, but stay motivated and hungry for it, even in those days, and work hard for when it goes right again.

After your recent impressive victories at Barcelona-Catalunya and Paul Ricard, how has that success influenced your confidence and mindset for the rest of the season?

I think it’s changed the goalposts that we’ve set for ourselves. I think coming into the season we definitely wanted to learn as much as possible, but we gave ourselves no target on results, and now I think the recent wins have given us a little bit more of a higher focus for the rest of the season, particularly with regards to the championship. And I think confidence-wise, we know we’ve got two races under our belt. We know what we’ve been capable of achieving as a team and as a group. So, carrying that now into the rest of the year, knowing what we’re capable of, I think, is a really positive thing and has definitely given us a slightly higher target for the rest of the season.

How do you usually prepare for the race, both on and off track? Do you have any personal routines or rituals that help you stay grounded?

I try not to set too many rituals or routines, but a lot of the preparation for me away from the track is physical preparation. Yeah, obviously, being new to endurance racing, long stints in the car, the physicality is something that I work hard on. And then preparation with the team at IDEC Sport, simulator preparation, trying to understand the race weekend as best as possible before going into it, particularly for something like Le Mans, is going to be a big part of it.

You’ve stepped into Formula One commentary. Has that experience changed your view of racing or influenced your approach as a driver?

I feel like I now have a different view on things, having seen it from the other side of the microphone or the camera. I also think F1 is at such a high level now, we can all learn so much from there. Being able to see it up close and analyze a lot of different situations, whether that be from a technical or driving point of view, I feel like I’m learning every day being able to do that. So, it’s given me a new perspective. It’s something I enjoy. I love being part of the Formula One Grand Prix. So yeah, it’s definitely helped influence my approach as a driver.

As a successful woman in a traditionally male-dominated sport, what unique strengths do you bring to the track, and what message would you share to aspiring female drivers?

I would say, I don't think too much about being a woman at the track when I’m competing in my own right. I just want to do the best job possible. But at the same time, I think I’m proud to try and do as much as I can for the next generation of female drivers. I think the sport is drastically changing, and particularly in endurance racing, we’re seeing a huge shift of female talent. There are so many great opportunities for women now in our sport. I think we’ve now seen five women on the top step in the ELMS alone, which is incredible to see. So, I think my message to young, aspiring female drivers would be to not let anything put you off — keep pushing.

Can you share your favorite memory with Genesis Magma Racing so far?

I’d say my favorite memory would definitely be that first win at Barcelona, mainly because we weren’t expecting it. But it was such a special weekend for all of us on the team — the first race, officially, for Genesis Magma Racing, and first win. And to have a lot of the team members that have been a part of it since the beginning all there sharing that moment was very special.

At Genesis, there just never seems to be an end to them.

“I’m an auto engineer, and I’m quite a passionate one,” says Harrer, Head of the Vehicle Development Tech Unit at Hyundai Motor Group (the Group). “With my roots in vehicle dynamics and performance, my latest mission to marry Genesis’ premium luxury approach with a performance approach is incredibly exciting.”

The Genesis Newsroom recently sat down with Harrer near his office at the Namyang R&D Center in Hwaseong, Korea, to learn more about the brand’s high-performance Genesis Magma initiative and plans to introduce hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and extended-range EVs (EREVs).

How is progress coming along for Genesis Magma?

The first Magma model to go into production will be the GV60 Magma, and our planning for this, to bring this to the market, is really very, very aggressive.

From a technical standpoint, what do you think Magma signifies for the Genesis brand?

The Genesis brand right now stands for premium luxury refinement. It’s optimized. It's a very comfortable experience, perfect for premium luxury. Magma is the performance bridge leading to more powerful engines, a bolder stance, a wider body and a lower ride height. Magma is aimed at the customer who wants more horsepower, higher top speed, and bold and sporty optics in each segment.  

How about Genesis’ entry into the realm of motorsports? What impact do you think it will have on the brand’s overall tech advancements?

Motorsports is the toughest testing environment you can find in the auto world. We’re talking about high speeds, aerodynamics, cooling strategies and durability enough to last 24 hours. The things we learn coming out of these races can create a great opportunity for all of us to further enhance our products.

What innovative technologies are currently being developed for future Genesis models?

We’re working day and night to build Genesis-dedicated technologies. Digital experience is super important for us, and so are next-generation propulsion systems, which will allow us to gain even more power and more fuel efficiency.

Is there anything a bit more specific you can share about the future lineup, for instance, the flagship G90?

We are currently enhancing the G90 with numerous ideas for new technologies, including digital experience and improvement to ride quality. We’re also looking forward to more powertrain variations, which go in tandem with our broader efforts to optimize our whole propulsion lineup encompassing electrified and hybridized solutions. 

So the G90, now based on an internal combustion engine (ICE), could have more variations in terms of powertrain?

Definitely. More variations are coming.

Let’s talk about EVs. How do global trends like the EV chasm influence your R&D strategies?

The EV chasm, with this gap between early adopters and the market, is really about the fact that completely transforming or transferring to EVs is taking longer than expected. It's a hard lesson for the whole automotive industry right now and we must react and innovate. We cannot push so hard and bring only EVs to the market. It was a bold goal from us years ago, but we must adjust and face the reality of differences in our customers — that not every customer is ready to go there.

What we’re doing in the meantime is developing hybrid and other hybrid-similar technologies for our customers before we can really go 100-percent EV, 100-percent zero emissions. We will soon offer a larger variety of new EV cars and updated or new Genesis models, with modern propulsion lineups, like the hybrid I mentioned already, or even alternative technologies like the EREV.

Speaking of hybrids and EREVs, when will the first Genesis production model of each hit sales?

Believe it or not, a couple of days ago we had a test drive of our future lineup with hybrid propulsion. This is going full steam, but now is not the right moment to reveal the exact date when we can really bring it to the market. But I promise you, we are working intensively to bring it sooner rather than later. And this is really advanced technology. It fits perfectly with the brand’s premium luxury approach and is the next step for our electrified propulsion.

How will EREVs improve the overall driving experience?

The beauty of EREVs lies in combining EV driving characteristics — instant high torque and serene cabin space — with a longer range. It’s kind of a modern hybrid: You can use it as an EV on a daily basis, but if you have to take a long trip, say, from San Francisco to Las Vegas, and you don’t want to carefully plan your route around EV charging stations, it provides seamless driving with the ICE generating electricity for you. This freedom is generating a lot of excitement around the world.

But there’s more to EREVs than range. There’s also the ample power for towing capacity — the energy to tow something like a horse trailer — which remains an unsolved issue with EVs.

How is Genesis collaborating with other companies in the area of EV batteries?

We’re a Korean brand, and the advantage I see here is that we have a strong network of Korean partners that thrive globally. They have battery know-how and technology, and we speak the same language and share the same culture, which allows seamless collaboration and innovation. It’s truly an outstanding environment for an OEM [original equipment manufacturer] like Hyundai to have these partners to work together on not only traditional cells but also on performance cells you will see in the future.

A couple of years ago, the Group announced it would develop a next-generation EV platform aimed at providing significant improvement in driving range on a single charge compared to the Group’s current E-GMP platform. Will this platform also be adaptable to HEVs and EREVs?

We are indeed developing an EV-focused platform dedicated to Genesis that’s aimed at improving driving range on a single charge. Furthermore, to overcome the EV chasm and respond to market conditions, we have begun upgrading this platform to make it adaptable to future tech like EREVs.

What strategies are being employed to maximize driving performance in this new EV/EREV platform?

We can’t do much about the weight of the underfloor batteries in EVs. What we can do, however, is modify weight distribution within the vehicles by optimizing the placement of various components and adjusting the balance of systems. For example, different types of tires could be used at the front and rear to enhance the grip level. Another way would be balancing the drivelines. In the future, you will see more drive-oriented, more powerful e-motors with a rear-wheel bias. This would bring balance by pushing the vehicle from the rear.

What’s really important is that we are now working on a new kind of torque vectoring system for future Genesis models, especially Magma, really cutting-edge, which will bring back agility at every speed. The combination of that with smart tire selection will bring dynamic and performance to the car, despite the mass.

It’s been a year since you’ve joined the Group. Compared to your previous roles working at other car companies in Europe, what particular strengths have you noticed so far in the way of working at Genesis?

What fascinates me most about the Group as a whole, not just Genesis, is the vertical integration. We have about 40 partners and affiliates with whom we work closely together in an intricate automotive value chain. It’s quite unique to see a deep understanding of practically everything — from customer requirements to the manufacturing of small components — and I think this is what makes a huge difference and gives us a lot of innovation power.

What excites you most about the future of Genesis?

I’d have to say combining Genesis’ premium luxury approach with a performance approach. We have really great products in the pipeline that will allow us to create a new foundation and open a new chapter. And most importantly, we have passionate colleagues who will help us get there.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 23, 2025 — Automotive media professionals from the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA) have named the 2026 Genesis GV70 the Northwest Luxury SUV of the Year, following two days of testing at the Mudfest 2025 Outdoor Vehicle of the Year Competition.

The award recognizes the GV70’s bold design, real-world performance and advanced technology among a field of top competitors.

"The GV70’s combination of stunning design, refined performance and cutting-edge technology proved its strength across every challenge at Mudfest," said Tedros Mengiste, Chief Operating Officer of Genesis Motor North America. "The GV70 provides a fun and engaging driving experience in a variety of different conditions. This award is a testament to the model’s capabilities and Genesis' growing appeal among customers in the Pacific Northwest."

Redesigned for the 2026 model year, the GV70 features an updated front and rear fascia, a bold Crest Grille, and Genesis’ signature Two-Line micro-lens array (MLA) headlamps. The GV70’s interior introduces an enhanced cabin with a sweeping 27-inch OLED multimedia display, updated dashboard layout, Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and high-end materials throughout, including Nappa leather seats and microsuede headliner. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electronically controlled suspension deliver confident performance in a variety of conditions.

“Always an engaging vehicle, the changes made to the 2026 Genesis GV70 elevate it to a new level of luxury,” said Tom Voelk, President of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. “This is a vehicle that takes its premium mission seriously with new refinements, technology and design details that shoppers will want to experience. NWAPA voting members clearly feel this should be on people’s test drive list.”

Now in its 31st year, NWAPA’s Mudfest competition brings together over 20 automotive media professionals to evaluate more than 20 vehicles in real-world conditions. Day one testing focuses on paved-road performance, including acceleration, handling and braking, while day two challenges vehicles on a custom off-road course to assess traction, ground clearance, articulation and driver-assistance features.

Fast forward to 2025, Genesis has unveiled a redesigned version in Korea that’s already turning heads. The upgraded GV60 elevates the driving experience with a suite of enhancements, offering a more refined and futuristic ride than ever before.

Sportier Stance, Refined Elegance

The redesigned GV60 makes a striking statement with its sophisticated and dynamic exterior, clad in notable enhancements that distinguishes it from its predecessor. Its blend of sportiness and elegance perfectly embodies Genesis’ design philosophy of “Athletic Elegance.”

One of the most standout updates is in the headlamps, which now feature Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology. Together with the newly designed bumper, they enhance the model’s wider, lower profile.

The length of the front overhang has been increased by 30 millimeters, creating a more three-dimensional and dynamic look. This subtle alteration not only significantly changes the silhouette of the car but also improves its aerodynamic performance.

Along the side and rear, the wheel arches, side cladding, and bumper, which were previously finished in black, now bear the same color as the body, completing a cleaner look.

Furthermore, the latest GV60 introduces fresh wheel designs for different drivetrains. The new five-spoke 20- and 21-inch wheels align with the dynamic design of the front profile while minimizing air resistance. The 19-inch wheels now come in a matte dark gray color, enhancing the model’s silhouette.

The front four-piston monoblock brake calipers have been standardized across all drivetrains. They come in uncoated silver for standard rear-wheel drive (RWD), white for standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and black for performance AWD.

Packed With Innovative Tech

Inside, the GV60 retains its beloved design elements while introducing noteworthy upgrades that enhance the driving experience.

The iconic Crystal Sphere electronic shift dial, Fingerprint Authentication System, Digital Side Mirror as well as the circular design theme remain.

One of the most distinct interior design upgrades is the removal of the bezel between the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment display via the introduction of an ultrawide 27-inch OLED screen. This expansive display, which is the basis of Genesis’ connected car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC), seamlessly displays information and even offers augmented reality navigation with the optional built-in camera.

The steering wheel has been changed from a two-spoke to a three-spoke design, enhancing grip. The newly added Hands On Detection (HOD) feature offers a more precise and convenient experience of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

Highlighting Genesis’ meticulous attention to detail, the smartphone wireless charging area has been updated from a diagonal slot to a horizontal pad, making it more convenient to view one’s phone while it charges.

Some of the most major technological improvements are found in the camera systems. The Built-in Cam 2 now offers enhanced resolution and voice-recording capabilities, as well as the ability to record video from the rear-facing camera. The rear-view mirror has been upgraded to a Digital Center Mirror, which, with the flip of a switch, can provide rear visibility without being blocked by anyone in the rear seats.

A new In-Cabin Camera (ICC) feature has been added to the top of the steering wheel, offering real-time monitoring of the driver’s inattention and fatigue levels.

Another newly added convenience feature is the Walk Away Lock (WAL), which particularly comes in handy when the driver has their hands full or forgets to lock the doors. When the driver moves more than 2.5 meters away from the vehicle while carrying the smart key or digital key, the doors automatically lock, substantially improving practicality for everyday use.

Enhanced Performance

The most notable performance enhancement is undoubtedly the fourth-generation battery cells, which now hold 84 kilowatt-hours of electricity, up from the previous 77.4 kilowatt-hours, all while maintaining the same-volume battery pack. This increase extends the driving range per single charge from 451 kilometers to 481 kilometers.

The battery charging time remains unchanged despite the increased battery capacity, allowing it to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes when using a 350-kilowatt ultra-fast charger. The batteries are also equipped with a second-generation conditioning system that automatically cools the batteries and enables manual operation while providing battery temperature status information, optimizing management.

In addition to being elongated by 30 millimeters compared to the previous model, the design of the front bumper has been revised, leading to significantly improved airflow along its sides and bottom. Moreover, the incorporation of various shapes of 3D undercovers and front wheel stakes to the underside of the vehicle has reduced the GV60’s drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.28.

The Smart Regenerative Braking System automatically adjusts the amount of deceleration from regenerative braking based on forward traffic flow and navigation map information, thereby heightening driving efficiency.

The front and rear shock absorber valves used in the Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) are now more advanced, allowing for individual control of the compression and extension of the shock absorbers, minimizing unnecessary body movements.

The GV60 provides a luxurious and serene driving experience with the extensive use of sound-absorbing materials, which have been newly integrated to the B-pillars, C-pillars, trunk and rear wheel arches. To minimize unnecessary noise and vibrations generated by the engine, the motor’s compensation control logic has also been optimized.

Building on these advancements, the number of controllers capable of Over the Air (OTA) updates in the GV60 has increased from 18 to 45, ensuring that a wider range of systems can be updated wirelessly, keeping the vehicle up to date with the latest features. In this way, GV60 owners benefit from a vehicle that can continually evolve, improving and updating its internal software functions over time for greater efficiency.

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

NEW YORK, April 16, 2025 — Genesis today revealed the X Gran Equator Concept, a bold exploration of elegance and adventure designed for those seeking the serenity of nature and the thrill of the unknown. As the brand's first adventure vehicle concept, the X Gran Equator Concept reimagines Genesis' "Athletic Elegance" design philosophy while embracing the rugged spirit of overlanding.

Inspired by reductive design principles, the X Gran Equator Concept’s exterior emphasizes clean lines and uncluttered surfaces. A long hood, sleek cabin and fast C-pillars create a silhouette that defies traditional SUV conventions, while dark wheel-arch cladding and 24-inch beadlock wheels underscore its off-road readiness. The geometric auxiliary lamps and split-opening tailgate blend practicality with Genesis’ signature Two-Line headlamps, ensuring the X Gran Equator is as purposeful as it is striking.

Inside, the X Gran Equator Concept orchestrates contrast between analog architecture and digital technologies, crafting a space that feels both functional and evocative. At the center of the cabin is a four-circle display cluster on the center stack, inspired by the vintage camera dials. The interior design features contrasting colors and shapes, with a preference for geometric over organic elements. The dashboard's linear architecture and absence of decorations focus the driver's attention on the journey, while swiveling front seats and modular storage solutions enhance practicality.

The name draws inspiration from “Equator,” recognized as the "finest stallion" in the world of Arabian horses — a symbol of endurance, agility and refined power. These qualities reflect the spirit of the concept: a vehicle that is both elegant and capable, engineered to perform in extreme conditions while maintaining a natural sense of grace.

The X Gran Equator Concept signals Genesis’ continued expansion into lifestyle-oriented vehicles, balancing sophistication with versatility. While not confirmed for production, its design language and innovative features — such as the integrated roof rails and split-opening tailgate — showcase the brand’s future design potential.

The X Gran Equator Concept will be displayed at the Genesis booth during the 2025 New York International Auto Show from April 18 at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Following the show, it will be on display at Genesis House New York in the Meatpacking District until the end of July.

GOYANG, Korea, April 3, 2025 — Genesis revealed the X Gran Coupe Concept and the X Gran Convertible Concept for the first time today at the Seoul Mobility Show 2025 in Goyang, Korea, taking yet another step toward redefining automotive luxury and performance. 

The world premieres were held at the KINTEX convention center under the theme “Unfold a New Era of Genesis,” as the brand expressed deep gratitude to local Genesis customers and shared its aspirations to embark on a new chapter. 

“In the 10 years since our launch, Genesis has been dedicated to delivering its unique values to more than 1.3 million customers worldwide,” said Mike Song, Global Head of Genesis. “We aim to seize this opportunity as a launchpad for a new decade, showcasing models that embody Genesis' pursuit of high-performance technology and future luxury design.” 

Introducing the X Gran Coupe Concept and the X Gran Convertible Concept 

The X Gran Coupe Concept and the X Gran Convertible Concept are derivatives of Genesis’ flagship model, the G90. Both concepts demonstrate the brand’s future position as an emotional luxury brand through distinct typologies. 

The X Gran Coupe Concept is the most iconic concept of the Genesis brand. Given its unique typology, which is traditionally the most exclusive and unique body architecture in the luxury segment, the X Gran Coupe Concept perfectly showcases Genesis' way of elegance and athleticism. 

Another interpretation of the flagship G90, the X Gran Convertible Concept, showcases a typology that offers freedom of expression and a heightened open roof experience, which allows drivers a direct connection with the surrounding environment. 

“Each concept car is a unique expression of Genesis’ luxury ethos designed to provide a sophisticated and immersive driving experience,” said Ilhun Yoon, Head of the Genesis Design Center in Seoul. 

Front Looks Showcasing Genesis' Unique Design Characteristics 

The front ends of the X Gran Coupe Concept and the X Gran Convertible Concept are adorned with Genesis’ characteristic Two-Line headlights, which extend toward each model's iconic Genesis Crest Grille. The 3D grille meshes are inspired by woven metal strings arranged in diamond-shaped Two-Line patterns. 

The wide lower air intakes with sculpted grille meshes emphasize the sporty character of the vehicles, while the elongated hoods create a dynamic silhouette. The widened Two-Line headlights extend to the fenders, visually enhancing the increased track width. 

Dramatic Side Profiles and Wheel Designs 

Both concepts feature more steeply raked windscreens and lower roof heights for the cabins, resulting in audacious silhouettes. 

The doors have been lengthened to facilitate entrance and egress. The frameless windows slide down completely, revealing an uninterrupted window graphic. 

The fenders have been widened to maximize the powerful presence of the concepts. Aerodynamic wing sections finish the lower bodies, visually planting them firmly on the road. 

In the X Gran Coupe Concept, the roof and cant rail have been visually integrated, shaping a cabin that resembles the canopy of sports cars. 

The beltline for the X Gran Convertible Concept is extended further back, dividing the body from the soft-top roof. 

The dynamic five-star wheels of the X Gran Convertible Concept feature sculptural cross-sections that contrast with the Two-Line spokes. 

The striking combination of a five double-spoke design and a layered treatment on the secondary spokes makes the X Gran Coupe Concept’s wheels a highlight from every angle. 

In both concepts, the deep sections of the wheels — directly resulting from the widened track — creates a dramatic stance, while the positive surfaces have been enlarged to reinforce the muscles centered on the wheels. 

Rear Aesthetics 

At the rear, the bumper offsets have been smoothed out to create clean surfaces, accommodating the iconic Two-Line taillights. 

The brightwork extends to the lower rears of both vehicles, integrating wide, slim rectangular tailpipes. Below the license plate areas, horizontal accents stretch across the rears, while the ducktails emphasize the dynamism of each concept. 

Flush Genesis logos and hidden retractable rear-view cameras reflect a high-tech approach to detailing. The touchless operation of the trunks, with a simple hand gesture, eliminates the need for physical buttons. 

Interiors Inspired by Mediterranean Olives and Cabernet Sauvignon 

The X Gran Coupe Concept features unique design elements inspired by the Mediterranean olive trees. The entrance experience is elevated with a door sill plate bearing the model’s name. Specially designed floor mats, adorned with olive leaf motifs, complement a tunnel section enriched with quilted stitching inspired by automotive heritage. 

The olive wood veneer is microperforated to create olive-themed atmosphere lighting. 

Upon entering the vehicle, the scent of Genesis leather — crafted from naturally tanned material using wastewater from Italian olive oil production and 100-percent chrome-free — delights the senses and enhances environmental sustainability. 

A fully quilted leather roof enriches the luxury ambiance, while the overhead console accommodates new functional enhancements. 

Meanwhile, the X Gran Convertible Concept captures the spirit of fine wines, with an exterior color reminiscent of pressed grapes and an interior color that echoes the deep, rich hues of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the Livorno region of Italy. 

Crystal Accents in Interior Details 

The sandy, clay soil that nourishes the Mediterranean olive trees inspired the use of crystals in the X Gran Coupe Concept for the details on the steering wheel, center console and ventilation systems. Due to its purity and multiple facets, crystal reflects sunlight, creating captivating displays of light. 

The crystal elements also elevate the sense of luxury while bringing warmth and depth to the cabin experience in the X Gran Convertible Concept. Paired with the soft materials of the seats and carpets, the crystals create a monochrome effect that highlights the grape blue tones of the interior. 

Enhanced Driving Experience 

At the heart of the driving experience of both concepts are steering wheels that feature a refined aluminum third bottom spoke, which is subtly patterned to echo the texture of the small command rotaries, enhancing both visual and tactile harmony. 

The front seats with integrated safety belts feature embedded screens and rear passenger air vents and integrated displays. 

First Look of GMR-001 Hypercar in Korea 

During this year’s Seoul Mobility Show, Genesis also shared its thrilling foray into motorsports and showcased the half-scale GMR-001 Hypercar for the first time in Korea. Genesis plans to compete in the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the 2027 IMSA SportsCar Championship. 

“Endurance racing showcases values of resilience, teamwork and excellence, qualities that resonate deeply with Genesis’ vision and ambition,” said Cyril Abiteboul, Team Principal of Genesis Magma Racing and President of Hyundai Motorsport.

Genesis Booth at Seoul Mobility Show

The X Gran Coupe Concept and the X Gran Convertible Concept will be displayed at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 4 to 13. Visitors to the Genesis booth at KINTEX will also be able to see the half-scale GMR-001 Hypercar, the GV60 Magma Concept, the GV80 Black, the redesigned GV60 and GV70, as well as the G90.

SEOUL, March 10, 2025 — As part of a new brand campaign, Genesis has released a short documentary titled “In Pursuit of Northern Lights,” which captures a thrilling journey to photograph the elusive aurora borealis.

The documentary is now live on Genesis’ official global YouTube channel.

The film follows an expedition by Virgil Reglioni, a Norwegian aurora explorer and photographer known as the “Hunter of Light,” as he searches for northern lights in Tromsø, Norway, and the rest of the Arctic in the redesigned GV60.

The GV60 sports an eye-catching new exterior color, “Tromsø Green,” inspired by the night sky above Tromsø, which is famous for its northern lights. The paint creates a dazzling yet mysterious impression through its glittering metallic pigments that reflect the light touching the vehicle’s surface.

At the same time, the GV60’s unique identity and luxurious image is emphasized by the refreshed front bumper with its bold three-dimensional shape and its Two-Line headlamps featuring Genesis’ brilliant and intricate Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology, complimented by its sleek new five-spoke 21-inch wheels.

In addition, the GV60 is equipped with an 84-kilowatt-per-hour fourth-generation battery that maintains a stable energy supply even at low temperatures. With its Smart Regeneration System 3.0, it efficiently recycles energy generated during deceleration and braking, mitigating the performance challenges of electric vehicles in extremely cold environments and demonstrating its reliable driving capabilities.

The premiering of the documentary to commemorate the launch of the redesigned GV60 is symbolic of Genesis’ vision and the brand’s pioneering spirit in pursuing a fully electrified society.

In conjunction with the premiere, Genesis is hosting a special display in Seoul called “GV60 Wonder Studio,” where visitors can get a closeup look of the redesigned GV60. The exhibit opened on March 7 and will last until March 16 at MM Seongsu in Seoul’s Seongdong neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy an immersive experience of the Arctic’s mysterious lights while acquainting themselves with the charming aura of the redesigned GV60.

That’s how Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul describes the momentum behind Genesis’ ambitious new motorsports program. From developing a V-8 engine to preparing for the highly anticipated debut of the full-scale GMR-001 Hypercar, Abiteboul recently sat down with the Genesis Newsroom to discuss the team’s next bold steps.

This exclusive interview follows Genesis’ announcement of its entry into motorsports late last year, with plans to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026 and the IMSA SportsCar Championship (IMSA) in 2027.

It’s been three months since Genesis officially launched its racing program. What challenges have you encountered so far?

I think the biggest challenge is really the time we have available. Building a path is a challenge, but also finding the right facility and building a team. We need to have a group of 60 people who do not yet exist. We also need to have the right equipment for them to operate.

Another big challenge, from a timing and engineering perspective, is the powertrain. And anyone who knows about engines will appreciate that we only had six months to develop a complete engine. We elected to go with a V-8, precisely because the V-8 was a great opportunity not to have to redesign a complete engine from scratch and instead take inspiration from our [Hyundai Motor Group’s] existing WRC [World Rally Championship] engine, a very competitive 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four that we've been using for several years. We took that engine and made it two times four in line, which gives us a V-8.

Also, we are working with partners, and one key partner is a French company called ORECA, which is not new to this business. They have been designing endurance racing cars for decades. We are also very lucky to have them as a partner to help us and guide us in the development of the design and the performance of the car.

It sounds like you’re assembling everything quickly.

Yeah, building the team together and putting the different building blocks together is a challenge because nothing existed at first. It's not just a car that we need to build. It's a racing team. An organization. A new identity.

Genesis’ entry into motorsports was kind of a surprise to the racing world. What really happened behind the scenes?

Hyundai Motorsport has been involved in the World Rally Championship for the past 12 years, during which I’ve served as Team Principal since January 2023 and President since January 2024. Early last year, we started to look at different options for a new venture, as we thought it was the right time to assess what could be the next chapter for the Hyundai Motor Group in motorsports. Around summertime last year, we thought that endurance racing was an interesting next step, and ever since then, things moved very, very quickly and very suddenly.

But why endurance racing?

It’s one of those classic heritage racings. We’re not just trying to build the here and now, but also a legacy. Racing in this type of championship against legacy brands allows us to immediately connect the brand with the best of the best in the most iconic racing venues in the world.

Genesis takes pride in its distinctly Korean identity. How is the racing team showcasing its Korean DNA?

We try to be as Korean as we can in both how we look and how we perform. First and foremost, we have the logo design, which is a direct reference to Korean characters. We also reference our connection to Korean culture in the team's identity.

And as for how we perform, one of the things that indeed we like to insist upon is the speed at which we do things. There will be the car testing on tarmac a few months from now, and the car will be racing at the start of 2026. By all standards, we really compressed the timing of what is normally done to an extreme, because we also want to show the speed of Korean culture — or what I’d like to call, Genesis hyperspeed.

About the GMR-001 Hypercar: As an engineer, what’s the relationship between design and performance?

One of the most famous French aero designers used to say that a nice airplane flies well, too. And I tend to believe that. Sometimes, technical regulations can induce you to design cars that are not necessarily very nice-looking because they are extremely sophisticated. I keep thinking of Formula One because that’s where I spent the largest part of my life. There was a period of time when cars were packed with aerodynamic surfaces: lots of wing legs, shark legs and so on and so forth. But in the end, I believe there is no opposition between aesthetics and functionality. In any case, the car that wins is always the more beautiful one.

The GMR-001 Hypercar unveiled last December in Dubai was a half-scale model. When will the world get to see it full-scale?

It has to be released this year because the car will be tested in August. So the car will be revealed a bit before then, around April. We will find a great spot to introduce the car to the world.

What about the people? Where are you searching for members for the racing team?

We are looking for talent on a worldwide basis. I can already tell you that we have secured a chief engineer. I cannot disclose his name yet, but I can tell you he previously worked with some of the most successful brands in motorsports. We are only looking at the best of the best who can bring us not just talent, but also their culture, their background and their network of people.

You must be excited about your two drivers, André Lotterer and Luis “Pipo” Derani.

I'm super, super excited. I was just talking about culture, and from my experience no one's more important than the drivers for building that culture. It’s essential for all of us to bring people who are not just drivers but can also embody the brand and be leaders of the team.  Both André and Pipo are exactly that. André is coming from being the world champion in WEC last year, and Pipo has lots of IMSA experience. It is a great opportunity to get people behind our own steering wheel who have experience with other types of cars.

When the car starts racing in 2026, what are the immediate goals that you have in mind?

Year one will be about system and reliability checks, making sure that the performance is there. And, frankly, if we do that, we can be a regular top-five finisher. And if you are a regular top-five finisher, you can, on some occasions, be on the podium.

After that, we will take it step by step to show that we are a professional, credible force in the races, and that there is a long-term plan. There’s no point in trying to rush or burn the steps. It's not sprint racing, it's endurance racing. It's a totally different philosophy.

It’s been a quick beginning for the team, but have you had any memorable moments?

I think one great moment was Dubai. What's great about Genesis is that it's part of a truly international group, and so many people had worked hard to get ready for the debut and announcing all the things that we announced. When I was on stage at the beautiful location of Burj Khalifa and looked at all the people, and the tower, at that sunset moment, that was really something.

But I'm very sure that there will be other great moments coming up. Every single moment where the team will be feeling that this is becoming more and more real will be exciting. I'm very sure that in a few weeks from now, if everything goes to plan, the first fire-up of the engine will be even more of a moment. We will also have the opening of our new base, which will be very nice also.

SEOUL, March 6, 2025 — Sales for the redesigned Genesis GV60 in Korea start today, showcasing more powerful performance and state-of-the-art luxury features.

It’s the first time Genesis’ sole electric model developed on a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) platform has undergone a redesign since it was initially launched in October 2021.

Inspired by the brand’s design philosophy “Athletic Elegance,” the redesigned GV60 comes with an 84-kilowatt-per-hour fourth-generation battery, allowing it to travel up to 481 kilometers on a single charge*.

Its innovative Smart Regeneration System and other newly introduced driving features offer a comfortable yet dynamic driving experience that is unique among luxury EVs. This includes an immersive in-car entertainment system that supports several streaming services on a large display with Dolby Atmos sounds. The driving experience is further enhanced with convenient features like a Hands On Detection (HOD) steering wheel and Walk Away Lock.

Imbued With ‘Athletic Elegance’

The GV60 has been reborn with a more refined exterior design that presents a striking and futuristic image in line with Genesis’ design philosophy Athletic Elegance, while the interior embodies the brand’s “Beauty of White Space” concept complemented by an array of sophisticated tech features.

At the front, the new model sports a refreshed bumper with a three-dimensional shape that exudes a bold impression. The headlamps highlight the brand’s iconic Two Lines design language with stunning and sophisticated Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology that welcomes the driver when they unlock the car.

The vehicle comes with the choice of new, sleek five-spoke rims in 21-inch dark metallic glossy gray or 20-inch light silver wheel options. The standard 19-inch wheels feature a matte dark gray color, which, along with the wheel arch cladding, gives the model a sporty yet elegant appearance.

The rear skid plate now matches the body color, providing a modern and sturdy SUV feel, while emphasizing the GV60’s wide and low stance.

While retaining its acclaimed design elements such as the Crystal Sphere (a rotating orb-shaped gear shift) and other circular details, the interior of the newly designed GV60 has also been refined.

A new feature is a 27-inch connected car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC) infotainment system, which eliminates the bezel between the cluster and the audio-visual and navigation (AVN) screen. There’s also the sporty three-spoke steering wheel, and the center console and crash pad, which are now outfitted in patterned aluminum.

The GV60 is available in 12 exterior colors, including the new “Tromsø Green.” The interior comes with five color options, including three new two-tone combinations: “Prussian Blue/Sky Blue,” “Pine Grove Green/Gold Coast Yellow” and “Galaxy Black/Aqua Green.”

Convenient EV Experience

The GV60 is equipped with a high-energy-density fourth-generation battery, increasing its capacity from the previous 77.4-kilowatt-per-hour to 84-kilowatt-per-hour. The car’s revised bumper profile and added 3D full undercover also enhance its aerodynamic performance, extending the driving range on a single charge from 451 to 481 kilometers*.

Improved battery cooling performance enables the vehicle to maintain a charging time of just 18 minutes when charging from 10 percent to 80 percent battery capacity using 350-kilowatt ultra-fast charging. Battery Conditioning Mode has also been optimized for rapid charging performance even in low winter temperatures.

The GV60 now comes with the new Smart Regeneration System 3.0, making driving more economical and efficient. The system automatically applies the optimal amount of regenerative braking for each driving scenario by considering navigation information such as traffic flow, the driver’s deceleration patterns, speed cameras, speed bumps and roundabouts.

Luxuriously Comfortable and Fun Drive

Genesis has improved the front and rear shock absorber valves applied to the GV60’s Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS)**, increasing the tuning flexibility of the damping force to enhance vehicle stability and ride comfort.

Additionally, the hydro bushings previously applied only to the front suspension have been added to the rear, minimizing road vibrations, while the steering gear ratio has been optimized to improve steering response.

The driving experience of the GV60 is maximized with a quiet interior and a new Electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD). In addition to the previously applied Active Noise Control-Road (ANC-R), the GV60 features enhanced soundproofing materials in the rear seats and cargo area, as well as improvements to the sealing structure in the front windshield, further increasing interior quietness.

The new e-ASD options "Horizon" and "Heritage: Black" intuitively convey vehicle behavior like torque and speed through vivid sound. In particular, Heritage: Black, which mimics the muted and beautiful harmonic structure of a six-cylinder engine, best expresses Genesis' signature driving feel and emotion.

The GV60 offers a fun driving experience with a range of features that complement its powerful performance.

The GV60 all-wheel drive (AVD) delivers a powerful performance with a combined maximum output of 360 kilowatts (490 metric horsepower) and a maximum torque of 700 Newton-meters (71.4 kilogram-force meters) when Boost Mode is activated. It can accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in just four seconds (based on an experiment conducted by the Hyundai Motor Group’s Namyang R&D Center) and is equipped with:
 

• Virtual Gear Shift (VGS)*** that provides a shifting feel similar to that of internal combustion engine vehicles through precise motor control.
• Hidden Drift Mode*** enables dynamic driving by inducing more oversteer in corners through power distribution and braking control.
• Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD)*** enables an optimal amount of torque to be distributed to the wheels when turning around at high speeds, improving performance when cornering and starting off. This offers drivers more stable control on slippery roads and in snowy or rainy weather.

Genesis has standardized the four-piston monoblock brake calipers across all GV60 models, enhancing its high-performance and dynamic image.

Premium User Experience

Genesis has levelled up the onboard infotainment experience with a variety of new high-tech features. The voice recognition system now conveniently responds to the wake-up command, “Hey Genesis.” Passengers will have a wide range of streaming services supported, including Genesis Music, Disney+, Netflix, Bloomberg, Genie Music and Melon.

A Bang & Olufsen high-resolution sound system completes the immersive entertainment experience with 17 individual speakers powered by next-generation Dolby Atmos immersive spatial audio technology.

Genesis has also upgraded the model’s advanced driver assistance system with features such as In-Cabin Camera (ICC), Lane Keeping Assist 2, and a Hands On Detection (HOD) steering wheel to make driving safer.

Along with this, new convenience features have been added such as Built-in Camera 2, Digital Center Mirror, and Walk Away Lock. The efficiency of the GV60’s Face Connect, which allows for vehicle access and customizable functions through facial recognition using a camera installed on the B-pillar, has been improved for more accurate face recognition.

Genesis has significantly expanded the range of over-the-air software updates to the GV60 such as Smart Parking and battery charging, enabling drivers to continuously experience the latest product updates after the vehicle is purchased.

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

*Combined AER for the 2WD powertrain variant based on Korean EV certification standards
** Comes as standard with Performance AWD variant. Optional as add-on on Standard AWD variant
*** Based on the Performance AWD model only

To alleviate this concern, Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is developing an energy-efficient heating system for its EVs, known as the Radiant Heating System (RHS). 
 

First introduced in 2019 with customizable knee warmers in select Hyundai and Kia models, the RHS technology was most recently featured in the Genesis Neolun Concept, unveiled last year. This innovative system aims to optimize energy usage, thereby extending the vehicle's range and enhancing overall driving comfort.

Conduction, Convection and Radiation 

Heat transfer can be broadly categorized into three mechanisms: conduction, convection and radiation. 
 

• Conduction occurs when fast-moving molecules collide with slower-moving molecules within a substance, transferring energy and causing the slower molecules to move faster. This phenomenon is primarily observed in metals with high thermal conductivity. In automobiles, conduction is utilized in heated seat cushions and armrests that make direct contact with the body. 
• Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of gases or liquids, exemplified by the way cabins are heated by warm air blowing from air vents during the winter. 
• Radiation, on the other hand, involves the emission of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves from a heat source. This is how the sun’s heat reaches the Earth and how warmth is felt from a distant fireplace. 

The Group aims to provide a comprehensive heating solution in its vehicles by incorporating all three heat transfer mechanisms: conduction through heated seats and armrests, convection via positive temperature coefficient heaters, and radiation through radiant warmers. 

Inspired by Korean ‘Ondol’ 

When it comes to radiant warmers, Manju Oh, a Senior Researcher at the Group’s Integrated Thermal Management Research Lab, which developed the RHS, recalls being inspired by the Korean concept of “ondol.” Ondol is a widely used heating method in Korean households that heats the floor through conduction, which then radiates heat into the room and warms the air by convection. 

“I was drawn to ondol as I was researching everyday examples of radiant heating,” says Oh. “When applying ondol to EVs, our goal was to reduce overall energy consumption while also considering its impact on human comfort.” 

The first-generation RHS, implemented as knee warmers, has so far received positive reviews. 

“Conventional air conditioners usually take time to warm passengers," says Sola Chung, a Senior Researcher at the Integrated Thermal Management Research Lab. "The RHS, however, directly transfers heat to the body, accomplishing the same task much more quickly.” 

The Group is now ready to take the RHS to the next level, Chung explains. 

"We developed a test model for the RHS that directs warmth to all areas of the body, allowing us to study the most optimal zones," says Chung. "It employs a film-type heating element made from carbon nanotube material, which provides a larger heating surface compared to the carbon fabric heating element used in the first-generation RHS." 

Powered by a newly developed 48-volt power system, preliminary trials of the film in the next-generation RHS demonstrated reductions in energy consumption for heating and improvements in energy efficiency. 

The latest RHS addresses the issue of potential burns from two main standpoints: hardware and software. 

In terms of hardware, the thickness of the heating element was reduced to lower the heat capacity, and a fabric with low thermal conductivity and heat capacity but high thermal emissivity was utilized in areas of potential skin contact to minimize the risk of burns. 

On the software side, a capacitive touch sensor was integrated into the heating element, enabling the immediate shutdown of power control logic upon detecting contact with the body. A safety system also deactivates the heating function immediately in case of component damage, power connection issues or software errors, ensuring thorough prevention of any potential burn risks. 

Energy-Efficient Comfort 

In discussing the effectiveness of the RHS, researchers often highlight its energy efficiency and user convenience. 

“When traditional convection systems are used in conjunction with the RHS, energy consumption for heating can be reduced by as much as 17 percent,” says Sanghun Kim from the Group’s Thermal Energy Testing Team.

“The system enables passengers to experience the same heating performance with less reliance on traditional heaters, resulting in better humidity levels inside the vehicle,” Chung points out. “This could particularly come as good news to women who avoid using heaters to protect their skin.”

SangYup Lee, Head of Genesis Global Design, said while unveiling the Genesis Neolun Concept last year that it was all about the “new experience.” 

“What you feel in the Neolun with ondol is something you won't feel in any other car,” said Lee. “Creating a new experience by evoking all five senses — that's what Genesis is about."

It was just as Jacky Ickx remembered from 42 years ago, when the Belgian racing legend drove to victory at the 1983 Dakar Rally. 

Ickx, a Genesis Brand Partner, was back at the grueling off-road race, but this time as an “honorary guest” in the newly built Genesis GV80 Desert Edition. 

For two weeks, Ickx tracked 6,000 kilometers out of the nearly 8,000-kilometer Dakar route in Saudi Arabia, journeying from Bisha to Shubaytah and stopping at each bivouac along the way to connect with young racers and share his insights.

From conception to realization, here’s how it all unfolded.

Development of the GV80 Desert Edition spanned several months in 2024 and was executed in partnership with the auto company W Motors, headquartered in Dubai.

Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke, center, led the project, ensuring that the brand’s dedication to “Athletic Elegance” was well-demonstrated in the vehicle’s enhanced performance capabilities.

The vehicle was presented to Ickx on Dec. 30, 2024, at Genesis Wallan Showroom in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in celebration of his 80th birthday, which took place two days later.

In honor of his birthday, the Dakar organizer also gifted Ickx with an “E80” sticker.

“I’m proud to be a part of this remarkable project,” Ickx said as he signed the engine cover, just days before he would finally put the vehicle to the test.

Behind the wheel, one of the first things Ickx noticed was how aggressive it was. The enhanced front lighting system, upgraded adjustable suspension and all-terrain tires quickly became his favorite features.

Ickx was later joined by his daughter Vanina, a former racing driver herself, midway through the rally.

It wasn’t the father-and-daughter’s first time at the event. Together they participated in the 2000 Paris-Dakar-Cairo Rally, which memory they both hold dear to this day.

“The GV80 Desert Edition calls for adventure, yet with an undeniable touch of elegance and comfort,” said the younger Ickx. “From the distinctive wheels to the remote-controlled lamp rack on the roof that illuminates the desert, the vehicle is really full of curiosity, audacity and performance.”

After an exhausting 6,000 kilometers, the journey was finally over. Once again, Genesis demonstrated its fearlessness, Ickx thought. “They make everything happen for the sheer pleasure of their customers," he said. "They are never afraid.”

1. GENESIS UNVEILS GV80 BLACK AND GV80 COUPE BLACK

On Oct. 2, Genesis added two more models to its Genesis Black lineup, the GV80 Black and the GV80 Coupe Black, presenting an all-black finish that permeates every intricate detail with refinement. 

2. GENESIS UNVEILS NEOLUN AND GV60 MAGMA CONCEPTS, SHOWCASING FURTHER EVOLUTION OF THE BRAND

At an exclusive event held in New York on March 25, Genesis revealed its first full-size electric SUV concept, the Neolun, and launched the high-performance Magma program, marking a critical milestone in the brand’s evolution. 

3. GENESIS UNVEILS LUXURY PERFORMANCE VISION WITH GENESIS MAGMA RACING, BACKED BY HYUNDAI MOTORSPORT

Genesis officially launched its motorsports program, Genesis Magma Racing, on Dec. 4 in Dubai, pledging to compete in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026 and the IMSA SportsCar Championship in 2027. 

4. GENESIS UNVEILS X GRAN RACER VGT CONCEPT AT BUSAN INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY SHOW

The Genesis X Gran Racer Vision Gran Turismo Concept was unveiled for the first time ever at the Busan International Mobility Show 2024 in Busan, Korea, on June 27, also marking the first time that a Magma vehicle was shown to the Korean public. The model became Genesis’ fourth vehicle developed for the Gran Turismo digital racing game series. 

5. WHY GENESIS DROPPED FOG LAMPS

Fog lamps have become a rarity in the luxury auto landscape thanks to technological advancements, and Genesis is no exception. 

6. MAKING CAR SEATS MORE COMFORTABLE (WITHOUT COMPROMISING SPACE)

Achieving the right balance of comfort and space in car seats can be challenging, as enhancing one often compromises the other. The “Ergo Motion Seat” developed by Genesis aims to tackle this very conundrum. 

7. GENESIS LAUNCHES NEWLY DESIGNED GV70 IN KOREA 

The first-ever redesign of the Genesis GV70 was launched in Korea on May 8, completed with a more refined silhouette and enhanced product appeal. 

8. INSIDE THE REDESIGNED GENESIS GV70: RIDE AND HANDLING

Research engineers from the Namyang R&D Center gathered with local media in June, a month after the redesigned Genesis GV70 was launched in Korea, to introduce the host of enhancements in ride and handling. 

9. GENESIS LAUNCHES TRACK TAXI NORDSCHLEIFE PROGRAM AT NÜRBURGRING

The Genesis Track Taxi Nordschleife program was launched at the world-famous Nürburgring in Germany on June 18, offering passenger rides in a specially modified Genesis G70, dubbed the G70 Track Taxi Nordschleife.

10. INSIDE THE REDESIGNED GENESIS GV70: NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS

The June tech event with research engineers from the Namyang R&D Center on the redesigned GV70 also touched upon the model’s noise, vibration and harshness improvements. 

Here’s how they stand out from their base models. 

The Purest Black

Both the GV80 Black and the GV80 Coupe Black confidently removed their model names and trim emblems in the rear, replacing them with dark-metallic “GENESIS” lettering. The harmonious integration of exterior decoration elements under the black tone and manner not only redirects attention to Genesis’ signature arch-type Parabolic Line sweeping across the voluminous body but also enhances the delivery of “Athletic Elegance," the brand's design philosophy.

Inside the cabins, the interior materials, each with unique textures and light reflectance, are expertly combined in black, delivering peace, comfort and tranquility. Behind this harmony stands Genesis’ rigorous efforts and advanced technology to coordinate the different shades of black — a color that, by nature, absorbs light differently by materials.

The GV80 Black and the GV80 Coupe Black feature interior designs that enhance their exclusivity, including real wood garnishes and quilted leather seats, which are accentuated by black suede materials, black aluminum speaker grilles and black door steps. 

To promote the virtuous cycle of resources, the leather seats, door trims and quilted rear seats have all been dyed with recycled carbon black extracted from waste tires. 

The distinctive black accents of Genesis Black are even applied to smaller details like switches, the shift-by-wire (SBW) system and Smart Key.

2025 GV80, GV80 Coupe: Elevated Ride Comfort 

Aside from the Genesis Black models, both the GV80 and GV80 Coupe have undergone product upgrades for the 2025 model year. 

The most significant change in the 2025 GV80 and GV80 Coupe is the improved ride comfort, due largely to the application of a new type of hydro bushings in the front suspension, dubbed “Hydro G-Bushing.” The hydro bushings minimize vibrations and jolts on the road, providing a much more serene driving experience than before. 

Hydro G-Bushings, which have been applied to the rear suspensions of the GV80 and the GV80 Coupe since 2023, encapsulate fluid within the bushings to create flow paths that absorb external vibrations more effectively. This results in greater damping force against specific frequencies (vibrations) compared to conventional rubber bushings, leading to better ride comfort. 

Another notable upgrade of the 2025 GV80 and GV80 Coupe is the refined emotional quality, evident through the integration of sophisticated Genesis-specific alert sounds in advanced driver assistance systems such as Parking Distance Warning (PDW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW). 

The expanded use of leather on the lower trim of the B-pillar further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to luxurious details. 

In terms of convenience, the Digital Key 2 now allows access to both the front and rear doors, boosting practicality in various scenarios, such as unlocking the door to retrieve items from the back seat or permitting a rear passenger to enter first when the door is locked. 

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information. 

DUBAI, Dec. 4, 2024 — Genesis today unveiled its bold new vision for the future of high-performance luxury. In an exciting debut in Dubai, the brand introduced Genesis Magma Racing, marking its first major milestone in the motorsport arena. The event showcased Genesis’ ambitions in endurance racing, illustrating the brand’s dedication to innovation, speed and passion. 

Bringing ‘Athletic Elegance’ to Endurance Racing 

Hyundai Motorsport GmbH (Hyundai Motorsport) underpinned the global race and rally activities for Hyundai Motor Group for over 10 years and will now support the Genesis motorsport operations in the prestigious World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026, followed by the participation in IMSA SportsCar Championship (IMSA) in 2027. This venture will position Genesis on the world’s most challenging tracks, showcasing the brand’s engineering expertise and endurance capabilities. 

Endurance racing represents one of the most prestigious and challenging disciplines in motorsport, demanding speed, reliability and strategy over extended periods. Iconic events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Daytona 24 require teams to balance peak performance with durability and efficiency, testing both the cars and drivers to their limits. 

At the heart of endurance racing is the Le Mans Daytona h (LMDh) class — a premier category that combines cutting-edge hybrid technology with standardized components to ensure cost control and competitive parity. LMDh cars compete in WEC and IMSA, making them a global platform for showcasing engineering excellence and innovation. 

By entering the LMDh category, Genesis joins an elite group of manufacturers vying for success on the world’s most prestigious racing stages. This move marks a significant milestone for the brand, demonstrating its ability to innovate under the extreme conditions of motorsport while maintaining its commitment to luxury and sustainability. 

“This entry into motorsport is a natural evolution for Genesis,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Genesis. “As we look to push the boundaries of our brand, motorsport allows us to bring the spirit of hyperspeed — which drives how we create and innovate — in a way that aligns perfectly with our core values: Audacious, Progressive and Distinctly Korean.” 

Introducing the GMR-001 Hypercar 

The centerpiece of Genesis’ motorsport ambitions, the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar, was revealed alongside the announcement of Genesis Magma Racing. With its striking design, the GMR-001 Hypercar embodies Genesis’ commitment to “Athletic Elegance” in a high-performance, endurance-ready package. 

Another highlight of the event included the reveal of the Genesis Magma Racing logo, which draws direct inspiration from the Korean alphabet (hangeul) spelling of "Magma" (마그마). The design incorporates the consonants “ㅁ,” “ㄱ,” and “ㅁ” as its foundational elements, creating geometric shapes that serve as a dynamic visual representation of Genesis’ heritage. 

“The logo seamlessly blends innovation with cultural authenticity, symbolizing the brand’s distinctly Korean identity and its bold entry into motorsport,” said Donckerwolke. 

Accurately styled with Genesis’ signature Two Lines lighting, the GMR-001 Hypercar projects a confident stance on the track. The sleek, horizontal lights wrap around the front and rear, emphasizing both width and aerodynamic purpose. This unique lighting seamlessly integrates into the car’s flowing bodywork, underscoring Genesis’ minimalist design principles while enhancing visual impact in any environment. 

Meticulous surface design characterizes the body, with each panel crafted to evoke movement, even when the vehicle is at rest. Inspired by the Genesis Magma lineup, the exterior combines subtle sculptural details that underscore the car’s athleticism and high-speed agility. Smoothly contoured surfaces guide airflow across the body, optimizing aerodynamic efficiency while emphasizing the car’s assertive character and confident stance. 

Integrating functional elegance and power, the side profile of the GMR-001 Hypercar features a sweeping Parabolic Line, a Genesis hallmark that transitions fluidly from front to rear. This line enhances airflow toward the rear diffuser, improving downforce and handling on the track. A concave rear section, framed by an active spoiler, adjusts to driving conditions, balancing drag reduction with stability for high-speed racing. 

Reflecting Genesis’ forward-thinking design, the GMR-001 Hypercar was developed at Genesis Design Europe under the guidance of Donckerwolke. The car’s distinctive black finish and design cues drawn from the Magma lineup signal a powerful new era for Genesis performance vehicles. The model serves as both a tribute to Genesis’ design DNA and a forward-looking inspiration for upcoming models, embodying a balance of elegance and raw racing capability. 

“The GMR-001 Hypercar and our Magma models represent a fusion of Genesis’ performance ambitions with our design-driven DNA," said Donckerwolke. "From the intense orange of Magma, symbolizing Korean passion and energy, to the precision engineering behind each component, we are entering a new chapter, where speed meets elegance.” 

Genesis Magma Racing to Rollout in Hyperspeed 

Hyundai Motorsport will play an integral role in driving Genesis Magma Racing’s plans in endurance racing, with President Cyril Abiteboul serving as Team Principal for Genesis Magma Racing. Having recently secured titles in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and TCR World Tour, Hyundai Motorsport is well-prepared to support Genesis in this bold new venture, working alongside trusted and equally ambitious partners. 

“The official launch of Genesis Magma Racing is a momentous occasion,” said Cyril Abiteboul, President of Hyundai Motorsport GmbH and Team Principal of Genesis Magma Racing. “As the backbone of Hyundai Motor Group’s global motorsport activities, Hyundai Motorsport will play a vital role in this latest ambitious program. We are elevating our circuit racing expertise to a whole new level as we prepare to compete in some of the world’s most challenging series.” 

Driving the Future of Genesis Magma Racing 

The combined expertise of the team behind Genesis Magma Racing is matched by the talent of the drivers who will take the wheel of the GMR-001. André Lotterer and Luis “Pipo” Derani will lead the charge in 2025, taking on technical development duties for the car and conducting simulator sessions to prepare for the debut LMDh season in 2026, where they will both serve as race drivers. 

“I am beyond thrilled and thankful to join the Genesis brand for its entry into endurance racing,” said Lotterer. “After winning the FIA Hypercar World Endurance Drivers’ Championship this year, this opportunity is the perfect fit for me to channel my work, experience, passion and motivation into a new project with a team of highly ambitious individuals. I am excited to start working on this project and build a successful future from the very beginning.” 

Lotterer’s enthusiasm is echoed by his teammate, Derani, who shares the same drive and commitment to the Genesis endurance racing project. 

“The ambition behind Genesis’s endurance racing project and the track record of those involved was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse,” Derani said. “As a driver, being involved in a project from the start is highly rewarding. I look forward to bringing my experience of developing cars and winning titles to the team. Given the competitiveness of LMDh, it will be a big challenge, but I believe all the necessary ingredients are here to make this endurance journey successful.” 

Preparing Solid Foundations 

Ahead of its WEC debut in 2026, the team will collaborate with IDEC Sport to field an LMP2 entry in the 2025 European Le Mans Series (ELMS), featuring a promising lineup of emerging talent. Logan Sargeant (U.S.), Jamie Chadwick (Britain), and 19-year-old Mathys Jaubert (France) will join forces for the ELMS campaign, supporting Genesis Magma Racing’s preparations for endurance racing. 

Genesis Magma Racing will consolidate its operations at a permanent strategic base at Circuit Paul Ricard in the south of France, leveraging its proximity to ORECA Motorsport and IDEC Sport to streamline collaboration. 

A Magma Showcase 

The unveiling of the GMR-001 Hypercar and the announcement of Genesis’ bold motorsport strategy are part of the brand’s broader vision to redefine high-performance luxury. This vision extends beyond the racetrack and is embodied in the five unique Magma concept models that were displayed at the event, each representing the brand’s relentless pursuit of excellence in design and innovation since the introduction of the GV80 Coupe Concept in April 2023. 

The five models on display were: the GV80 Coupe Concept, G80 EV Magma Concept, GV60 Magma Concept, X Gran Berlinetta Concept and X Gran Racer VGT Concept. These concept models highlight the evolution of Genesis’s high-performance capabilities and showcase Genesis Magma's impact on the brand’s direction for its next phase.

SEOUL, Dec. 2, 2024 — Genesis today unveiled the newly designed Electrified GV70, boasting elevated luxury and meticulous attention to detail. 
 

It’s the first time the Electrified GV70 has undergone a redesign since the initial model began Korean sales in March 2022. The electric vehicle (EV) model was originally launched as the third EV in the Genesis lineup, following the introductions of the Electrified G80 and the GV60. 
 

The latest Electrified GV70 incorporates more intricate details than its predecessor, taking the brand’s design philosophy of “Athletic Elegance” to new heights. 
 

Exquisite Exterior Design Details 
 

On the front fascia, the Electrified GV70 showcases a new form of Crest Grille with a gradient G-Matrix pattern, accentuated by a bumper design that exudes a wide and sophisticated appeal. The refined intake grille pattern epitomizes the elegant sensibility unique to electric SUVs. The Two-Line headlamps, a hallmark of Genesis, incorporate Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology, improving lighting performance with exquisite design elements. 
 

The side profile presents new 20-inch wheels in a sleek matte dark gray shade, while the color of the existing 19-inch wheels has been altered to create a robust yet sophisticated feel. 
 

On the back, the turn signals have been relocated from the bumpers to the rear combination lamps, enhancing visibility for vehicles behind. The turn signals now adhere to the front Two Lines concept, with the lower part of the bumper also featuring Two-Line chrome garnish for an enhanced aesthetic. 
 

The shape of the high-mounted stop lamp (HMSL) located on the rear spoiler has been streamlined, and a module integrating a digital center mirror (DCM) and a built-in camera has been applied to the lower part of the HMSL, creating a cleaner image. 
 

Added to the exterior color options is the new “Ceres Blue” in gloss or matte. 
 

Interior Comfort and Refinement 
 

The interior of the redesigned Electrified GV70 fully embraces Genesis’ distinctive design principle of the “Beauty of White Space,” seamlessly incorporating state-of-the-art technology to boost the luxury experience. 
 

The 27-inch OLED display offers a user-friendly single horizontal layout that integrates the cluster and infotainment system, while the touch-based heating and air-cooling system emphasizes advanced functionality. 
 

The mood lamp, extending from the upper part of the door trim to the center fascia, contributes to the overall luxurious mood, complemented by the new monotone steering wheel adorned with meticulously crafted stitching. 
 

The newly applied EV-exclusive door garnish and mood light, together called “Milky Way Pattern Mood Lighting,” maximizes the elegant ambience. With real aluminum speaker covers, the premium Bang & Olufsen sound system takes the auxiliary experience to the next level. 
 

The model comes in three interior color options, including the newly introduced EV-exclusive Icy Blue/Glacier White Two-Tone. 
 

Korean sales for the redesigned Electrified GV70 will start in the first quarter of 2025. 
 

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

What was the key focus for improving NVH in the latest Electrified G80?

Since the Electrified G80 is Genesis’ flagship EV sedan, the key was upgrading soundproofing performance, particularly in the rear seat area. To achieve this, we significantly reinforced the sound-deafening features in the back, like increasing the use of sound-absorbing materials in the C-pillar area. The quarter glass, which is close to passengers’ ears, has become thicker and made soundproof.

What new measures have been taken to reduce overall road noise?

Sound-absorbing tires that reduce resonance have been applied as a standard, and the upper suspension arms have been equipped with dynamic dampers to lessen noise transmitted from the road surface. Quarter insulators have also been placed between the panels of the rear wheel housings to block noise and improve sound insulation. We even applied nearly twice as many foam fillers than its predecessor to block noise from infiltrating the cabin.

How did the longer wheelbase affect the vehicle’s NVH?

The redesigned model is 130 millimeters longer than the previous version. In other words, our top priority was to address the potential issue of noise transmission through the car floor. We started by enhancing the structure of the floor carpet, which plays a crucial role in absorbing sound on the floor panel. The problem with the integrated floor carpet in our previous Electrified G80 was that it had trouble fitting tightly with the floor panel due to interfering components such as wires and air conditioning ducts. Our new split-type carpet, on the other hand, allows for complete adhesion to every part of the floor. We’ve also extended the length of the pads attached to the front seat center tunnel while increasing the use of sound-absorption material around the rear seat floor area to effectively block high-frequency noise.

What about wind noise?

Windows in the redesigned model are now thicker. The rear and quarter glass have increased in thickness from 3.5 millimeters to 5 millimeters, with soundproof glass having been applied. The windshield and front door glass also utilize 5-millimeter soundproof glass, while the rear door glass uses 4-millimeter soundproof glass. We have also reshaped the cowl cover at the point where the hood meets the windshield to optimize aerodynamic performance. This significantly mitigates the intensity of the turbulence generated at the end of the hood, greatly reducing wind noise during high-speed driving. To suppress noise entering through gaps around the glass, the shapes of relevant components have been changed as well, and their rigidity has been reinforced to ensure better sealing between parts.

How did you tackle noise coming from the high-voltage battery and power electric system?

To reduce noise caused by electromagnetic force generated during motor operation, we utilized an optimized motor control technique that balances out the force, consequently lessening motor noise without compromising efficiency and gear ratio. Meanwhile, soundproofing material was attached to the top surface of the battery pack to further reduce high-frequency noise.

Were there any other NVH improvements in the latest Electrified G80?

The upgraded Electrified G80 boasts several new convenience features in the back row, including independently adjustable power reclining seats. With the addition of these seats, we particularly tried to minimize the possible transmission of motor noise from the rear wheels into the cabin. Special attention was given to the reclining zone, where we optimized the choice of materials and enhanced sound absorption performance to effectively reduce noise levels.

For Yongjun Heo, it’s in the wheels.

“Just like how shoes make or break an entire look, it’s no exaggeration to say that wheels complete the overall design of a vehicle,” says Heo, who leads the Genesis Exterior Design Team.

“That's why as a brand and as a team, we’re dead serious about wheel designs.” 

The Inspiration

Audacious. Progressive. Distinctly Korean.

These three characteristics form the foundation of Genesis’ design identity, “Athletic Elegance.” They serve as the guiding star for all Genesis models, influencing every aspect of their design and product planning. 

“They are what drive us to take bolder steps than other brands, touch the hearts of customers with new technologies and incorporate exclusive Korean aesthetics," says Heo.

In wheel designs, the emphasis on Athletic Elegance leads to one critical question during planning: whether to prioritize athleticism or elegance. 

"For dynamic models like the Genesis G70 and the Genesis GV70, more aggressive spoke designs are used to express dynamism,” Heo mentions. “In contrast, for models like the Genesis G90 sedan, multi-spoke or dish-type wheels are tapped to convey elegance.”

3 Rules 

Behind every wheel design, there are three specific rules that guide the Genesis Exterior Design Team.

“One, the wheels must complement and harmonize with the overall body design,” Heo points out. “Two, they should visually appear larger-looking, and three, they must communicate a clear design message.”

No matter how aesthetically pleasing a wheel may be, it won’t be used if it doesn't meet the above criteria, particularly the first rule.

To overcome the challenge of creating a wheel design that seamlessly blends with the model, wheels at Genesis are not designed in isolation toward the end of the body design. Instead, they are developed in conjunction with the rest of the vehicle right from the outset, which approach ensures that the wheels are harmoniously integrated into the overall aesthetic.

Two Lines and the G-Matrix Pattern

When asked what sets Genesis wheel designs apart from other brands, Heo quickly highlights the Two Lines, one of the brand's signature design elements. 

"We begin with the Two Lines and explore new structural forms based on reinterpretations from different perspectives," Heo explains, offering the double-layer spoke structure of the Genesis X Concept as an example. 

Heo’s favorite: the Genesis X Speedium Coupe Concept’s five-spoke wheel.

"Considering that the X Speedium Coupe Concept was a concept vehicle, the wheels were designed to tease Genesis' future design vision," Heo recalls. "Although production feasibility was not a primary consideration, designing the wheels was still an incredibly difficult task. In hindsight, I think they ultimately elevated both the sportiness and elegance of the Genesis X Trilogy." 

Genesis wheels aren’t simply confined to aesthetics. They also offer functional advantages, like being lightweight while maintaining necessary rigidity.

The spoke cross-section design, for instance, effectively cools the brakes. The G-Matrix pattern, another one of Genesis’ signature design elements, helps secure rigidity and lighter weight, as seen in the G70 and the GV70 Sport models.

Limitless Possibilities

Looking ahead, Heo says he and his team have their eyes set on electric vehicles (EVs) and developing next-generation wheel designs that can enhance EV driving range. 

"There are countless designs to explore, along with new materials and manufacturing techniques that can significantly improve our aerodynamics,” Heo marvels. “The possibilities are limitless."

With the redesigned Electrified G80 being 130 millimeters longer than its predecessor, Jungwoo Lee, Research Engineer at the Genesis R&H Test Team, explains how he and his colleagues approached a core mission for the brand’s latest EV sedan: enhancing comfort in the back row. 

What was the key focus in improving ride and handling for the redesigned Electrified G80? 

When I first laid eyes on the redesigned model, the extended wheelbase immediately caught my attention. Our focus for this model quickly became recreating the exceptional ride comfort of our flagship Genesis G90, particularly in the back seats. We wanted to make a rear space where people could attend to their personal business and truly relax. To achieve this, we significantly upgraded our suspension system, allowing the vehicle to effectively absorb road vibrations and jolts, resulting in a smooth and comfortable ride under any circumstances. 

The redesigned model is heavier, too, with all the added convenience features and increased high-voltage battery capacity. How did this affect the model’s overall ride and handling? 

The redesigned Electrified G80 weighs 2,365 kilograms, which is 90 kilograms, or 4 percent, heavier than the previous model. From an engineering perspective, this increase in mass results in greater inertia, which means that more control is required to effectively handle the vehicle. In other words, more force, such as engine output and brake force, is needed to initiate and stop the vehicle. In terms of ride comfort, this weight increase leads to a more sensitive response to different road surfaces. As for handling, even subtle changes in steering can easily destabilize the car, requiring the driver to remain vigilant to maintain control. To address these challenges, we implemented a robust suspension setup. 

How exactly was the suspension improved? 

Among significant upgrades, the replacement of the rubber bushing — mounted on the front side of the rear crossmember — with hydro bushing proved to be particularly effective in upgrading the comfort of the rear seats. Suspension bushings have non-linear characteristics, which means that the frequency range of resonance induced by vibrations on the road varies. Resonance leads to increased noise transmitted to the interior. But hydro bushings improve driving vibration and rear-seat comfort by creating a fluid circuit to attenuate external vibrations at a specific peak frequency. Stabilizer bars, which control the vehicle’s roll [lateral movement], were also upgraded with newly applied steel-cut bushings that reduce vertical stiffness to offset road vibrations. 

Other efforts we undertook to improve suspension include installing various bushings in the front and rear suspension systems to minimize road noise, as well as applying rebound springs to the rear shock absorbers to lessen the impact of compression and expansion during vertical movements. 

What can drivers expect from the newly adopted Rear Wheel Steering system?

The Rear Wheel Steering system operates in two main modes: reverse phase, where the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions; and parallel phase, where the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction. These modes are designed to provide improved handling and maneuverability during low-speed and mid- to high-speed driving, respectively. While the specifications and functionality of the Rear Wheel Steering system in the Electrified G80 are the same as the ones in the G90 and the G80 Sport models, the one in the Electrified G80 has undergone specific tuning to optimize back-seat comfort.

How much of a difference does this Rear Wheel Steering system make? 

The reverse phase mode of the Rear Wheel Steering system allows the rear wheels to turn up to 3.5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius of the vehicle, providing greater convenience in situations like U-turns, navigating narrow streets, parking and exiting parking spaces. It’s almost like you forget the car is even 5.1 meters long. Without such a Rear Wheel Steering system, the previous Electrified G80 had a minimum turning radius of 5.81 meters. Now, even with a 130-millimeter longer wheelbase, the minimum turning radius of the redesigned model is 0.38 meters shorter than before. This allows for far more precise maneuvering on tight roads. 

And what about the parallel phase mode? 

The parallel phase mode of the Rear Wheel Steering system allows the rear wheels to turn up to 2 degrees in the same direction as the front wheels. This increases driving stability and rear-wheel tracking when making high-speed turns or quick lane changes at speeds of 60 kilometers per hour or above. The threshold for switching between the reverse phase and parallel phase modes also varies depending on the driving mode, adding to the excitement and enjoyment of driving. For example, in Comfort Mode, the mode switches to parallel phase mode once the speed exceeds 60 kilometers per hour. However, in Sport Mode, the mode switches at speeds of 80 kilometers or above, offering a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience when taking corners quickly. 

The redesigned Electrified G80 also comes with the newly applied Chauffeur Mode. 

The new model is fitted with Electronically Controlled Suspension with Road Preview (Preview ECS), which scans the road ahead with a forward-facing camera and navigation map data. Preview ECS preemptively detects ridges and automatically adjusts the suspension’s damping force to minimize abrupt bounces and jolts. Chauffeur Mode utilizes the damping control function of this Preview ECS to minimize the rear-end movement of the vehicle. It effectively controls bounce [vertical movement of the vehicle's center] and bump pitch [forward and backward tilting movement], providing a significantly smoother ride when encountering large shocks. 

The redesigned model has further been refined to enhance the motor torque and friction resistance of the motor-driven power steering system. This modification effectively minimizes the yaw motion [rotational movement around the vehicle's center axis] of the vehicle, especially during turns.

Was the added Chauffeur Mode for the brake system also intended to increase comfort in the back row? 

Brake modes can be independently configured by the driver through the infotainment monitor. Using the Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB), the driver can separately adjust the pedal stroke and brake hydraulic pressure to create a unique braking feel. The redesigned Electrified G80 is equipped with a recalibrated IEB that befits its stature as the brand’s flagship EV sedan. 

The newly added Chauffeur Mode provides a focused braking feel that boosts maneuverability, allowing for even smoother and more comfortable control over the vehicle's movement. While the Chauffeur Mode functions differently as a driving mode compared to the Chauffeur Mode as a brake mode, both ultimately contribute to enhancing rear-seat comfort.

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information. 

Three years after its initial launch in 2021, Genesis’ latest electric vehicle (EV) comes with a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, resulting in extra legroom and headroom in the rear seats.

Bohyun Park, Senior Research Engineer at the Genesis Engineering Solutions Team, explains how a steadfast obsession with creating a more comfortable ride led to the upgrades, and what the future holds for the brand’s flagship EV sedan. 
 

One of the biggest changes in the redesigned Electrified G80 seems to be the spacious back row.

Some of our customers who purchased the previous Electrified G80 said they would have liked more space and convenience features in the second row. And that’s probably because the EV model was built on the same platform as its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, the Genesis G80. So when we started planning for the redesigned Electrified G80, our first and foremost priority was to maximize comfort in the rear seats, targeting VIPs. Hence, we stretched the wheelbase by 130 millimeters and added more features such as power reclining seats, Ergo Motion technology , electric door curtains, wireless charging pads and EasyClose [which enables passengers to conveniently open and close their doors with a push of a button on the rear console armrest, door trim or front center console].

Extending the wheelbase: How does that normally work? 

Adding more room in the cabin by simply enlarging the body is easy. What’s not easy is adding more room in the cabin and creating a comfortable, user-friendly space all the while perfecting our brand’s design philosophy, “Athletic Elegance.” Approaching this task, our focus was to optimize the dimensions of the vehicle by extending the length, specifically the wheelbase, by 130 millimeters. The 130-millimeter increase was then split between 70 millimeters toward expanding passenger space and 60 millimeters for seat adjustments.

What do you mean by “optimizing” the dimensions of the vehicle?

Once we decided to create more space in the back, we narrowed it down to three core objectives: more legroom, more headroom, and recreating the Rest Mode seat position originally offered in the Genesis G90. To this end, we moved the hip point [the point where the hips touch the seat] of the rear seats 70 millimeters backward, allowing passengers — even tall people above 180 centimeters — to comfortably stretch their legs. We also incorporated independently adjustable power reclining seats, unprovided in the ICE model. Improved seat designs in the EV model required an additional space of 60 millimeters compared to the previous model.

How about the legroom and headroom? 

For the front row, both the legroom and headroom remain the same as the previous Electrified G80. For the back, they’ve been increased by 82 millimeters and 20 millimeters, respectively. Whereas people often feel cramped in the back of an EV sedan because of the battery packs underneath, the redesigned Electrified G80 eliminates this issue by offering additional legroom and headroom. The car is even now 5 millimeters higher than before, maintaining its athletic and elegant roofline. 
 

The back seats also look a lot more comfortable than before.

The newly implemented power reclining seats allow for personalized seatback and bottom cushion tilt angles, enabling passengers to adjust their positions according to preferences. More specifically, a leg rest function has been added in the rear right VIP seat to provide extra support for the feet. When Rest Mode is activated, the front passenger seat moves forward, while the angles of the seatback, bottom cushion and leg rest in the rear right seat are modified to create an optimized seating position. The extent of modification for this leg rest may vary depending on various factors such as whether a passenger is in the front seat, and its reclining angle.

For those who chose to go without the power reclining seat option at the time of purchase, the fixed rear seats come with extra padding in the cushions and are tilted back by 2 more degrees. 

Developing both ICE and EV models using the same platform doesn’t sound easy. What was particularly challenging?

Unlike SUVs or crossovers, it’s critical for EV sedans to secure sufficient ground clearance to accommodate the high-voltage battery located at the bottom of the car. When using the same upper body for both the ICE and EV models, there are, of course, bound to be differences in interior space. That's why the latest Electrified G80 features a longer body, thus providing ample space for passengers within the cabin. 

What’s the next step for the Electrified G80? 

The most important factor to consider in a flagship EV model like the Electrified G80 is to provide customers with a comfortable, distinct experience. This includes both physical space and the overall emotional experience. As Genesis moves forward with electrification, the brand will continue to design interior spaces that offer elevated comfort and luxury.

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information. 
 

Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) hopes to tackle this universal inconvenience with its latest technology called Metal-Coated Heated Glass, which is designed to self-heat using a 48-volt power system, melting frost within minutes. It also resists solar radiation without compromising visibility, making it an effective solution for both harsh winters and scorching summers.

Tests on both the Genesis Electrified GV70 and the GV60 have shown promising results.

Metal-Coated Heated Glass

Defrosting windshields in sub-zero temperatures can be a challenging task. Relying solely on heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is barely enough, mainly because the low thermal conductivity of air hampers the quick circulation of warm air throughout the cabin. 

In today’s era of autonomous driving, this issue becomes even more critical, as sensors attached to the windshield play a vital role in collecting essential data for self-driving systems. Any residual frost or moisture on the windshield can impede sensors’ ability to gather crucial information on the road, impacting the reliability and performance of autonomous vehicles.

This is where the Group’s Metal-Coated Heated Glass comes in.

The technology features an inherent glass-heating capability, offering superior defrosting performance. In other words, this special type of glass raises the temperature of the glass itself, allowing for the complete removal of frost. 

48-Volt Power System

The key to achieving exceptional defrosting performance with Metal-Coated Heated Glass lies in the adoption of a world-first 48-volt power system, which quickly transmits heat from the electrically powered metal coating to the glass.

The coating applied inside the glass, which consists of nearly 20 layers of metal components including silver, enables the glass to heat up when current passes through the windshield. 

“The 48-volt power system is optimized for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, which utilize high-voltage battery power,” says Giheon Jeong, Senior Research Engineer at the Group’s exterior engineering design team for mid- and large-sized vehicles, who developed the technology. “It applies higher voltage than the Group’s conventional 13.5-volt power system.”

With a 48-volt power system, Metal-Coated Heated Glass can reach up to 75 degrees Celsius from room temperature. While it’s technically possible to achieve even higher temperatures, the Group has decided to limit the range out of safety precautions, Jeong explains.

Metal-Coated Heated Glass can remove frost in as little as 5 minutes at temperatures as low as minus 18 degrees Celsius. In comparison, it takes the 13.5-volt power system more than 15 minutes to remove the frost in the same environment. 

Another notable feature of Metal-Coated Heated Glass is its excellent forward visibility. Conventional heated glass often comes with the drawback of visible tungsten wires, which obstruct the driver’s vision. The Group’s Metal-Coated Heated Glass, on the other hand, features a transparent metal coating, thus providing a clear, undistorted view without any glare or distortion.

The Group has filed for patents for Metal-Coated Heated Glass in Korea and other major foreign markets, with plans underway to incorporate it into future vehicles.

Solar Heat Rejection

Metal-Coated Heated Glass is effective during summer as well.

By reflecting infrared radiation and emitting its own heat, the technology can reject at least 60 percent (according to ISO13837 standards) of the solar heat striking the glass, limiting the rise of cabin temperatures by up to 2 to 3 degrees Celsius.

The technology stands out even when compared to general heat-blocking tinting films.

Most thermal insulation tinting films with the equivalent performance as Metal-Coated Heated Glass have a visible light transmission rate below the standard requirement of 70 percent. As a result, installing such tinting films makes it difficult for drivers to maintain clear vision in adverse weather conditions. In contrast, Metal-Coated Heated Glass not only meets the visible light transmission rate of 70 percent, but also ensures bright and clear visibility. 

Metal-Coated Heated Glass is also free from the issue of communication interference that’s often found in tinting films. The metal components contained in tinting films can disrupt radio waves and infrared communication, occasionally leading to abnormal operations of cellular communication and GPS signals inside the vehicle. 

Metal-Coated Heated Glass, however, leaves areas where heating is unnecessary uncoated, and employs pattern-processing techniques on the metal-coated surface. This effectively allows the glass to maintain the same level of radio wave reception performance as regular glass.

A Step Forward

Looking into the future of mobility design, Metal-Coated Heated Glass could have profound implications.

There’s the potential elimination of air vents on the upper crash pad, used for defrosting and dehumidifying. This could open exciting possibilities for cutting-edge innovations like full head-up displays leveraging the entire windshield, or the integration of big-screen augmented reality navigation systems. 

Going forward, Jeong says he anticipates Metal-Coated Heated Glass to play a particularly important role in EVs. 

“Efficiently managing thermal energy in EVs not only allows for greater utilization of convenience features inside the cabin, but also helps to increase driving range,” he notes. “We are taking a significant step toward the future of mobility.” 

It marked the brand’s inaugural entry into the SUV segment, was the first production model derived from a concept, and became the first in the Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) to feature Electronically Controlled Suspension With Road Preview (Preview ECS). 

Preview ECS utilizes a forward-facing camera to scan the road ahead for speed bumps or potholes, instantly adjusting front and rear damping to optimize ride comfort and handling control. 

Reflecting on the development process of this innovation, four research engineers from the Group’s Vehicle Motion Control Development Team, who played a pivotal role in bringing Preview ECS to life, explain how the technology continues to distinguish itself today. 

How did Preview ECS come about? 

Jung Inyong: The technology goes back to 2016, when we first started exploring different options for road surface recognition. Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) sensors were initially considered, but their high costs rendered them impractical for mass production, which is why we turned our attention to camera systems. 

How does Preview ECS in the GV80 compare to similar technology offered by other car manufacturers? 

Hyungjin Kim: Unlike competing technologies utilizing a stereo lens camera, the GV80’s Preview ECS employs a single-lens camera, which still performs as good as a stereo lens camera thanks to help from our partner companies and Group colleagues working in autonomous driving development. Competing technologies often face limitations in road surface recognition under certain conditions like nighttime or heavy rain, but Preview ECS uses navigation data, which effectively helps overcome these drawbacks. Another good thing about the GV80’s Preview ECS is that it doesn’t require any additional hardware when compared to the electronically controlled suspension system. Only software dedicated to road surface perception and suspension control need to be added, which enables us to keep manufacturing costs down to a minimum. 

How fast can Preview ECS recognize road conditions? 

Hyungjin Kim: To accurately perceive road surface conditions, the front-facing camera relies on the vehicle being in motion. In a GV80, the camera is capable of detecting road surface data when the vehicle is traveling at speeds of 10 to 130 kilometers per hour. There could, however, be a slight discrepancy between the speed at which the road surface is recognized and the maximum operational speed of the Preview ECS system. 

If the navigation system encounters a GPS error while detecting speed bumps, how does Preview ECS work? 

Jung Inyong: In situations where real-time GPS information is found to be inaccurate, Preview ECS will minimize its reliance on this data and revert temporarily to the electronically controlled suspension system without the preview function.  

How would you describe the biggest advantage of an electronically controlled suspension? 

Wookyun Kim: To control damping, the resistance of the solenoid valve in the GV80 is continuously adjusted every one-thousandth of a second, ensuring ride comfort in any situation. Unlike other suspension systems developed by our competitors, which normally use two solenoid valves that are electronically controlled when compressing and extending, the damper used in the GV80 controls both compression and extension with a single solenoid valve. Having a single solenoid valve reduces overall weight and improves maintenance. 

What happens if only one side of the vehicle drives over a speed bump? Can Preview ECS still function effectively in this unorthodox scenario? 

Jonghoon Choi: The front-facing camera detects not only the remaining distance between a speed bump but also the height and width of the ridge. Using that data plus the current vehicle speed and steering angle, Preview ECS predicts and computes the trajectories of both wheels. Therefore, even if only one side of the car drives over a speed bump, Preview ECS can still independently control the suspensions mounted on each wheel. 

What about rain? With Preview ECS relying on optical cameras, does it also work well in rainy weather? 

Hyungjin Kim: It’s true that the optical performance of the front-facing camera can be diminished in low-light conditions such as in nighttime or rain. Its ability to gather information is also limited when the vehicle is too close to the forgoing car. But that’s why Preview ECS was engineered to combine data from the navigation system plus various other sensors — to ensure that the electronically controlled suspension functions optimally under diverse circumstances.  

Is there some sort of a data processing device that processes all the information from the road surface? 

Byungjoo Kim: Yes, we use an advanced Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that was specifically developed for this unique type of electronically controlled suspension. The ECU works like a high-performance microcomputer. It integrates road surface data gathered from the front camera with inputs from multiple sensors in the vehicle. This extensive range of information is then processed at an incredibly fast rate of 100 calculations per second, allowing the ECU to generate optimal control commands. The electronically controlled suspension operates in conjunction with these commands by continuously adjusting the damping force. These adjustments are made at intervals as small as one-thousandth of a second, ensuring that the suspension system responds to ever-changing road surface conditions. 

Can the mechanism behind Preview ECS be adapted for other features? 

Wookyun Kim: Several features have already been developed using this mechanism, such as reducing body roll during cornering, and identifying and responding to uneven road surfaces. These additional functionalities weren’t applied to the GV80 considering the model’s overall concept. 

What was the biggest challenge in developing Preview ECS, particularly considering that it was its first practical application at the Group? 

Hyungjin Kim: Getting lots and lots of data — far beyond what was used in conventional electronically controlled suspensions. We needed data from front-facing cameras and navigation systems, which is why close collaboration between different functions within the Group was crucial. Road recognition technology utilizing a forward-facing camera had never been applied before in our Group, which posed many challenges in the initial development stage of functionality and performance. We conducted endless rounds of testing with our partner companies and internal colleagues. Integrating road surface data from the navigation system into the electronically controlled suspension was also a first for our Group. The whole process required a tremendous amount of time to ensure safety and functionality under various driving conditions.  

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

The secret lies in smart technology like the Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD), which enhances traction on the road. When combined with the Terrain Mode, the all-wheel drive GV80 showcases exceptional performance and capability in various driving conditions. 

How LSD Works

Understanding e-LSD begins with grasping the concept of LSD. In a typical setup, power generated by the engine is transmitted to the wheels through the transmission and driveshaft. On straight roads, both the left and right wheels generally rotate at the same speed. 

However, when facing off-road conditions such as sand, mud or water, the circumstances could change swiftly. If one wheel of the axle gets stuck while the other remains unaffected, a difference in rotational speeds occurs. 

A similar situation arises when turning corners. The outer wheel typically covers a greater distance than the inner wheel due to the larger turning radius. This is why a differential gear is needed to distribute power differently to the left and right drive wheels. 

When turning a corner without a differential gear, the left and right wheels would rotate at the same speed, creating resistance on the outer wheel and thus increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle. 

But a differential alone is barely sufficient. 

The differential transfers power based on the rotational speed difference between the drive wheels, meaning that power tends to concentrate on the wheel with less traction. That added power can lead the wheel to slip and spin, rather than gain the necessary traction to move forward. With the opposite wheel receiving little to no power, the chances of getting stuck increases significantly. 

This is where LSD comes in. 

As the name suggests, LSD prevents power from being excessively transferred to a wheel that’s slipping or spinning, ensuring that both the left and right wheels maintain adequate drive power and traction. 

Electronic Vs. Mechanical LSD 

Among the two main types of LSD, the all-wheel drive GV80 offers the optional electronic LSD, known as e-LSD. 

The other type of LSD, called the mechanical LSD (m-LSD), utilizes clutch plates to mechanically control power distribution to both wheels. While m-LSD provides fairly effective power distribution, it only engages when a certain level of difference is detected between the two wheels, meaning that it’s reactive in nature. 

In contrast, e-LSD uses electronically controlled clutches to proactively manage the difference in rotations between wheels. In other words, it detects terrain conditions and engages preemptively, allowing for smoother driving than the m-LSD. 

The e-LSD system of the all-wheel drive GV80, which is equipped in the rear axle, boasts one of the fastest response times in the industry. Using hydraulic actuators, it detects minute pressure changes in the vehicle based on road conditions and driving situations, distributing optimal power to the left and right rear wheels in less than a tenth of a second. 

Terrain Mode 

When it comes to truly conquering off-road terrain, the GV80’s combination of the all-wheel drive system, e-LSD and Terrain Mode ensures maximum control and performance. 

In Terrain Mode, the e-LSD works in conjunction with the engine control unit (ECU), transmission control unit (TCU) and traction control system (TCS) to optimize the vehicle’s off-road capabilities. 

While the e-LSD regulates power distribution between the rear wheels, the TCS oversees traction control for the front wheels. 

The Terrain Mode offers three settings: mud, sand and snow. 

Under Snow Mode, for example, the GV80’s engine, transmission and four-wheel drive system are all finely tuned to prevent excessive force from reaching the wheels and causing them to slip.

In Mud Mode, the GV80 utilizes its powerful engine to deliver a momentary strong force to all four wheels, effectively allowing the vehicle to quickly escape from muddy terrain.

In Sand Mode, the drivetrain is meticulously controlled to smoothly transmit engine power to all four wheels, maintaining a 50-to-50 distribution of power between the front and rear wheels. This balanced distribution helps prevent the wheels from getting stuck in the sand.

The result is a four-wheel drive system that allows the GV80 to navigate off-road terrain with ease and confidence. 
 

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

SEOUL, Oct. 2, 2024 — Genesis today unveiled the GV80 Black and the GV80 Coupe Black, presenting an all-black finish that permeates every intricate detail with sophistication and refinement. 

It’s the second time Genesis has released a Black model, following the successful launch of the G90 Black in Korea last March. 

Genesis Black models are defined by their captivating dark-black color theme that extends throughout the interior and exterior, flawlessly embodying the essence of Genesis’ design philosophy “Athletic Elegance” in its purest form. 

All visible exterior features in the GV80 Black and the GV80 Coupe Black are finished in black, including the radiator grille, bumper garnish, front emblem, daylight opening (DLO) molding, roof racks and rear bumper molding. Even lesser visible details like the headlamp inner side bezels are black, completing the sleek look. 

Both SUV models come standard with 22-inch glossy black wheels and black floating center caps, the latter of which are exclusive to Genesis Black vehicles. The tailgate is adorned solely with the Genesis emblem in dark metallic lettering, adding the finishing touch to their unique presence. 

The interior is characterized by consistent black accents throughout, with distinctive materials further enhancing the sense of tranquillity. 

Black finishes are applied to various interior elements such as knobs, switches and glass accents of the shift-by-wire (SBW) system, as well as the leather stitching and button that opens the glove compartment. Enhancing the luxurious appeal are real wood garnish, exquisitely quilted seat leather with piping, as well as premium car mats.

As a sportier alternative to the GV80, the GV80 Coupe offers three powertrain options, all based on gasoline: a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine that makes 304 horsepower; and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 380 horsepower, while the same engine coupled with a 48-volt electric supercharger (e-supercharger) spikes its output to a higher 415 horsepower. 

Available only in the GV80 Coupe and Genesis’ flagship sedan G90, the e-supercharger stands out as a defining feature that simply cannot be overlooked. 

How It Works 

While the e-supercharger in the G90 focuses on providing smooth and comfortable rides, the one set aside for the GV80 Coupe has been specifically tuned to provide rapid response and acceleration. 

When compared with the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine mounted with an e-supercharger incorporates a 48-volt mild hybrid starter-generator (MHSG) along with a 48-volt e-supercharger, which together provide more power assistance, improve low-end turbo lag, enhance responsiveness and increase fuel efficiency. 

To boost maximum output, the capacity of the turbochargers installed on each side of the engine with an e-supercharger has been increased, while in relation to this upgrade, the water-cooled intercooler capacity has been improved to enhance cooling performance and responsiveness. 

In addition to assisting power, the 48-volt MHSG performs the role of recharging the 48-volt lithium battery during regenerative braking, all the while functioning as a generator and starter motor.

A key feature of the e-supercharger-assisted engine is that its two-stage boosting system ensures responsiveness at low engine speeds. 

Typically, a turbocharger uses exhaust gas to spin the turbine following combustion in the engine, which then drives a compressor wheel to compress air into the engine, increasing output. Enhancing the turbocharger’s capacity can increase airflow and ultimately boost maximum output, but this normally leads to longer compression times. Therefore, when the engine is under load or operating at low speeds, it can cause a delay in acceleration or slower throttle response. 

The 48-volt e-supercharger, however, addresses these drawbacks by activating at speeds below 1,750 revolutions per minute. It compresses air behind the compressor wheel and delivers it to the engine, increasing low-end output and reducing turbo lag. When the engine reaches higher revolutions per minute, where the turbochargers alone are adequate for boosting, the air bypasses the e-supercharger and is directly supplied to the engine intake manifold. 

Airflow is controlled by the mechanical bypass valve. It has a spring inside that opens and closes the air path based on a steady difference in air pressure, which prevents sudden fluctuations in air supply to the engine when the e-supercharger is activated. 

Unlike a regular 12-volt e-supercharger found in traditional engines, a 48-volt system can deliver a significant amount of air to boost engine output. Another advantage of the 48-volt e-supercharger is that it’s powered by an electric motor, making it more efficient than traditional mechanical superchargers that rely on engine power. 

Thrilling Driving Pleasure 

The e-supercharger-boosted engine not only increases maximum power and torque compared to the standard twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, but also alters the way power is delivered. The stark difference is evident when comparing torque and power graphs of both engine types. 

While both engines reach peak torque at 1,300 revolutions per minute, the torque graph of the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 rises sharply before that, resulting in a subtle fluctuation in output. Whereas with the other type of engine, because the e-supercharger assists the engine at lower revolutions per minute, it reaches peak torque more smoothly, and the torque decline after 4,500 revolutions per minute is more gradual.

When switching to Sport Plus Mode, the e-supercharger-assisted engine provides a more aggressive control over the output and torque, giving a strong push feel when shifting up gears and automatically adjusting the revs when downshifting. A newly added launch control feature maximizes acceleration from a standstill. 

To complement the improved engine performance, the running performance has also been refined. The damper tuning that supports the vehicle’s chassis has been modified to reduce rolling and pitching movements, allowing for better control of the vehicle. The steering system has been fine-tuned as well to enhance steering stability. The enhanced exhaust sounds add an extra level of excitement to the overall driving sensation.

Improved Fuel Efficiency 

The GV80 Coupe’s e-supercharger-equipped engine also offers improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, chiefly thanks to the MHSG. The MHSG performs the role of a starter motor, turning the engine crankshaft as soon as the engine is started. With higher output than a conventional starter motor, it provides excellent startability. Its connection to the engine via a belt further allows for effective reduction of vibrations and noise. 

During steady driving, the MHSG uses power from the 48-volt lithium battery to supply the needed energy to the drivetrain system. During deceleration, the MHSG performs regenerative braking, collecting energy back into the 48-volt battery.

During inertial driving, when the accelerator pedal is not pressed and the vehicle is coming to a stop, the MHSG system engages the Extended Idle Stop & Go (ISG) function, which cuts off fuel injection to the engine — a stark contrast to the conventional ISG, which only operates when the vehicle is completely stopped. 

Compared to the turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, the e-supercharger-boosted engine matched with 22-inch wheels offers a 3.85-percent improvement in fuel efficiency (0.3 kilometers per liter) and a 3.64-percent reduction in carbon emissions (8 grams). 

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.

SEOUL, Sept. 25, 2024 — Genesis has partnered with Bloomberg Media to deliver a new program of services provided through an in-car app, powered by Bloomberg. The service will be introduced first to the newly designed Electrified G80 model in Korea starting from Sept. 25.

The service will be expanded to the G90, G80, GV80, GV80 Coupe, GV70, Electrified GV70 and GV60 models and is set to roll out in Korea by Q1 2025. The service is due to be launched in Korea first, with Europe slated to complete its launch by Q2 2025. The app will be installed as part of the Over-the-Air (OTA) update for existing cars. 

This partnership between Genesis and Bloomberg Media marks an exciting advancement in providing convenient and high-quality media content for Genesis owners. With the new in-car app, owners can stay connected and informed in the comfort of their own cars, accessing Bloomberg's trusted and timely news, analysis and entertainment options. 

Through the service, Genesis owners will be able to access a wide array of content without the need for additional sign-ins. The features include Bloomberg TV+, Bloomberg Originals and News Feed, delivering major headlines and relevant information in a timely manner. 

As part of the commitment to enhancing the ownership experience, Genesis is also offering select model owners the Annual Access, an annual Bloomberg digital subscription package, starting with the newly designed Electrified G80 and expanding to the G80, G90, GV80 and GV80 Coupe. Owners will gain unrestricted access to Bloomberg.com and the Bloomberg app across all devices. 

This comprehensive package ensures that Genesis owners can enjoy the benefits of Bloomberg's premium content both inside and outside their vehicles, enabling them to stay up to date and make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives. 

After hitting production just five months later, the GV80 Coupe today maximizes practicality and sportiness with a dynamic exterior and an array of advanced technological features. 

Exterior: SUV Meets Sporty

The GV80 Coupe boldly combines Genesis’ design identity “Athletic Elegance” with dynamic styling cues. The aggressively trimmed front bumper features an expanded air intake, Two-Line headlamps incorporating Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology and a double-layered G-Matrix Crest Grille. The electronic supercharger (e-supercharger) option of the GV80 Coupe exclusively comes with dark chrome garnish, elevating the coupe’s high-performance image.

The side profile is characterized by an arch-shaped Parabolic Line that flows along the body and meets a sloping roofline that descends from the C-pillar to the trunk, striking a perfect harmony. The GV80 Coupe seizes attention with coupe-exclusive 20- and 22-inch wheels with distinctive spokes. Depending on the type of engine, the color of the brake calipers also varies: the e-supercharged coupe boasts vibrant red calipers, and the others black.

At the rear, the model flaunts a unique design with LED surface-emitting rear combination lamps and either twin-type or single-type exhaust tips. The type of exhaust tip is determined by the engine type.

The GV80 Coupe is available in a range of 13 exterior color options, including the coupe-exclusive “Bering Blue.” 

Interior: Refined Yet Exciting Touches 

The interior of the GV80 Coupe captures a high-tech sensibility with sporty design elements unique to a coupe. 

Along with the 27-inch OLED display and seamless center fascia, another standout feature are the three-spoke D-cut steering wheel and the three garnishing options that contribute to the model’s refined look, offered only in the coupe: Spin-Patterned Aluminum, Black Newspaper Real Wood and Real Carbon. Also equipped solely in the e-supercharged coupe are G-Matrix-inspired metal accents that are added to the pedals, which further enhance the exhilarating driving experience. 

E-Supercharger 

The GV80 Coupe presents three different powertrain options, all based on gasoline and combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission: a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine that delivers 304 horsepower; and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 380 horsepower, while the same engine coupled with a 48-volt e-supercharger spikes its output to a higher 415 horsepower. 

The coupe is the only Genesis SUV that offers an e-supercharger, second only to the Genesis G90 in the entire lineup. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 assisted with an e-supercharger contains two turbochargers, one in each cylinder bank. Each cylinder bank consists of three cylinders, arranged in a V-shaped configuration. 

A major benefit of the e-supercharger is that it compresses air behind the compressor wheel and delivers it to the engine, increasing low-end output and reducing turbo lag. The engine further benefits from dual continuous variable valve timing (CVVT), an integrated exhaust manifold, integrated flow control valve, center injection and a water-cooled intercooler, which together optimize fuel efficiency and acceleration response to produce a maximum output of 415 horsepower and a peak torque of 56 kilogram-meters. 

Adrenaline Boosters 

Not only does the engine deliver impressive power, but it’s also complemented by a high-performance braking system as standard, which comes as optional in the Genesis GV80. This includes large discs that fully cover the wheels and four-piston 20-inch monoblock calipers, ensuring strong performance and reliable braking capabilities. 

A brake mode called Flex Brake is also available in the GV80 Coupe, which offers two settings: Comfort and Sport, allowing the driver to experience different braking sensations depending on the selected mode. For instance, setting the braking system to Sport Mode via the display alters the brake pedal response and stroke, resulting in a more engaging driving experience. 

Other exclusive highlights of the GV80 Coupe include Active Sound Design (ASD), which combines real engine sounds with virtual sounds, creating an immersive auditory experience that amplifies the model’s powerful performance. 

Specially set aside for the e-supercharger option is a high-performance gauge cluster, which conveniently provides drivers with essential information for sports driving, such as oil temperature, torque usage and turbo boost pressure. 

Launch Control, also equipped only in the e-supercharger option, maximizes acceleration and launch capabilities, while the Sport Plus Mode optimizes engine responsiveness and adjusts the damping force of the electronic control suspension to ensure an exhilarating ride. 
 

Disclaimer: Specifications may vary depending on region. Please contact your local Genesis retailer for more information.