Genesis, the premium brand of Hyundai Motor Group, unveiled two grand tourer (GT) concept cars from its high-performance brand Magma ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and declared it would enter the high-performance car market. Genesis signaled mass-production potential with the Magma GT concept and showcased the growth of its racing technology with the Magma GT3 concept.
Cyril Abiteboul, head of Hyundai Motorsport and general director of Magma Racing, announced Genesis' entry into the GT market at a media conference at Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France, on the 12th local time.
GT is a name commonly attached to models that pursue high-speed long-distance driving capability, strong performance, luxurious ride comfort, and everyday usability at the same time.
He said, "There are various opportunities in the GT market," adding, "Three brands currently account for more than 50% of the total market, and we intend to take on this market." However, he did not provide specific plans for the timing of the entry or the products.
Luc Donckerwolke, chief design officer (CDO) of Hyundai Motor Group, who introduced the vehicle design, described the Magma GT as a "beauty" and the Magma GT3 as a "beast."
The Magma GT concept was designed to look sleek yet elegant, in line with the GT meaning of a high-performance luxury vehicle suitable for long-distance driving. The GT3 concept is fitted with a large front splitter and other components, making it immediately recognizable as a racing car built for the circuit.
The two concept cars were built with an extremely low, very wide, and large body. They felt at least the size of a midsize sedan.
The Magma GT concept has the proportions of a classic high-performance sports car and adopts scissor doors, in which the doors open upward. Genesis' two-line headlamps, a radiator grille wrapping the lower front, and a large rear diffuser created the atmosphere of a high-performance car.
Inside, the dynamic feel is emphasized along with luxury. The dashboard, headliner, and doors are finished in suede, and a "tufting pattern" used in high-end sofas is applied to the center console and seats.
The gear lever looked like that of a manual transmission, but shifting was possible only for R and D. The instrument cluster was an electronic display that replicated mechanical gauges. All climate control functions were housed within the display.
The Magma GT is a concept car developed with mass production in mind, but there are many hurdles to clear before it can reach production. José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor, said, "We need to review all scientific, technological, and financial feasibility," adding, "We are currently conducting a financial review and will revisit pricing soon for profitability."
Abiteboul also said, "We are seeking a practical and competitive direction," and added, "We will draw up follow-up plans after checking the market response."
Genesis also unveiled the Magma GT3 concept for the first time in the world that day. Reflecting GT3 technical regulations, the design is optimized for racing conditions with aerodynamics, durability, and cooling efficiency, Genesis said.
The car incorporates a wealth of technology that Genesis accumulated while preparing for motorsports competitions such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The interior reproduced the driver's seat of a racing car as is.
A Genesis official said, "We are preparing to fully compete in the European market, where high-performance car brands are lined up," adding, "If we build recognition and prove our technology through this Le Mans 24 entry, we believe we have a solid chance."