"Dreams come true." It's time for us to own a car like this.
Genesis brand (hereafter Genesis) unveiled the electrified off-road SUV 'X Gran Equator Concept' for the first time in the world on the 15th local time at the brand's multipurpose cultural space 'Genesis House New York.' They also showcased the racing vehicle 'GMR-001 Hypercar' designed with the livery of the motorsports team 'Genesis Magma Racing.'
At the end of last year, Genesis declared its entry into motorsports based on the high-performance program 'Genesis Magma' at the 'Genesis Motorsports Premier' event in Dubai. The 'GMR-001 Hypercar' unveiled on the 15th is a testament to Genesis' commitment to endurance racing.
Jose Munoz, CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, noted in his welcoming speech, "Genesis has established a new standard in the industry over the past 10 years, exceeding simple quantitative growth," and said, "I am very proud that Genesis is making disruptive changes in the market, and I find it very meaningful to share another journey of Genesis here today."
▲'X Gran Equator Concept' with sophistication and robustness
The 'X Gran Equator Concept' from Genesis is an electrified luxury off-roader SUV concept model designed for customers seeking adventure. It is capable of stable driving both on and off-road, boasting sophistication on the road and robustness in rugged terrains.
The concept name 'Equator' is inspired by top Arabian horses that are strong and agile yet possess beauty, achieving outstanding results in competitions. It embodies the aspirations of the concept model to showcase exceptional performance without losing elegance even under extreme conditions.
Luke Donkerwolke, Chief Design Officer (CDO) and Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of Hyundai Motor Group, said, "The X Gran Equator Concept is a result where elegance and robustness, comfort and a spirit of exploration achieve harmony," and added, "The off-road performance and luxury pursued by Genesis will create a journey to encounter the beautiful nature during actual off-road driving."
'X Gran Equator Concept' is based on Genesis' design philosophy of 'Athletic Elegance.'
The exterior emphasizes clean lines and a simple surface based on Genesis' 'Reductive Design,' realizing a more refined image. Notably, the long hood, sleek cabin, and steep C-pillar complete a unique silhouette not seen in existing SUVs, while the partitioning tailgate, which opens in a split manner from above and below, satisfies both practicality and design by harmonizing with Genesis' signature dual-line headlamps.
Additionally, it features design elements optimized for rugged driving, like a roof rack for carrying outdoor gear, dark-colored wheel cladding that prevents damage to the wheels, and beadlock wheels that use screws to secure tires and prevent detachment.
The interior achieves an intuitive yet emotional design through the harmony of analog and digital technologies, enabling drivers to immerse themselves more in off-road driving. It features four central circular display clusters reminiscent of vintage camera dials and a dashboard designed in a linear structure, along with rotatable front seats and modular storage to maximize the vehicle's practicality.
The interior materials emphasize intentional restraint and highlight sophistication by using premium leather and fabric in neutral tones that reflect the primal beauty of nature.
▲The actual design of the 'GMR-001 Hypercar' to be used in racing
Genesis unveiled the actual design model of the 'GMR-001 Hypercar,' which will be deployed in races starting in 2026, for the first time at this event.
Previously, Genesis revealed the 1:2 scale model of the 'GMR-001 Hypercar' during the launch of the racing team 'Genesis Magma Racing' in Dubai, UAE, in December of last year, officially announcing its plans to enter endurance racing.
'The GMR-001 Hypercar' incorporates Genesis' signature dual-line design extending from the front to the side, achieving an aerodynamic structure and volume that allows anyone to easily recognize the unique identity of Genesis from any location and angle.
Furthermore, it applies an arching 'Parabolic Line' that naturally flows from the front to the rear, adding strength and stability to the vehicle, while the underbody plate enhances airflow and the precisely designed air intakes effectively dissipate heat, improving cooling efficiency.
The 'GMR-001 Hypercar' unveiled this time is a model reflecting the livery of the 'Genesis Magma Racing' team for the first time, harmoniously encapsulating the vehicle's unique performance and artistic sensibility.
The livery applied to the 'GMR-001 Hypercar' presents a design that embodies Korean aesthetics and the brand's unique identity, setting a new standard for racing car liveries. The bright orange color transitions to a darker red towards the rear, visually expressing the explosive energy created by the midship engine and the rising speed. Additionally, the prominent Hangul 'Magma' showcased throughout the vehicle emphasizes the brand's identity reflecting Korean sentiments.
Luke Donkerwolke emphasized, "The GMR-001 Hypercar is a work of art that retains the performance and efficiency of a racing car while not losing Genesis' DNA," adding, "It is a model reflecting Genesis' determination to set new standards in high-performance vehicles in every design element and incorporates Korean identity."
Genesis expects that the 'GMR-001 Hypercar' with the applied livery will allow them to more actively communicate the unique value of the Genesis brand and their passion for motorsports through actual race track participation.
Meanwhile, Genesis also unveiled the official suit design of the Genesis Magma Racing team alongside the actual design model of the 'GMR-001 Hypercar.'
The racing suit, incorporating Genesis' unique dual-line design and G-Matrix pattern, enhances the consolidation between the brand, vehicle, and driver.
▲'GMR-001 Hypercar' and racing suit
Genesis plans to utilize the 'GMR-001 Hypercar' with the livery design unveiled today and the racing suit in various upcoming endurance races.
Specifically, Genesis plans to establish its presence in the global motorsports stage by participating in the 'World Endurance Championship (WEC)' in 2026, followed by the 'WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (WTSCC)' starting in 2027.
Cyril Abiteboul, head of Hyundai Motorsports and general manager of Genesis Magma Racing, remarked, "Today, as we unveil the actual design model of the GMR-001 Hypercar and racing suit, marks an important milestone for the Genesis Magma Racing team" and stated, "While preparing for upcoming races like the '26 WEC and '27 WTSCC, Genesis will continue to build its own heritage in motorsports and realize its potential in the field."
Meanwhile, Genesis plans to showcase the 'X Gran Equator Concept' and the 'GMR-001 Hypercar actual design model' along with other key Genesis models at the '2025 New York International Auto Show' scheduled to be held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York from the 18th local time.
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