Genesis Essentia Concept previews electric GT set

Production version of striking EV is due on roads by 2022 - and could be coming to Europe

Hyundai luxury brand Genesis has revealed a striking new GT called the Essentia Concept that will inspire a production model destined for Europe by 2022.

Set to spearhead the brand’s entry into Europe, the all-electric four-seater is on show in New York with the suggestion that it previews the design and technology of Genesis’s future model.

The Essentia Concept is built around a carbonfibre monocoque, powered by a multi-motor electric powertrian and uses high-density battery packs. Genesis has not revealed whether the batteries are solid-state, which is considered to be the next battery breakthrough at the start of the next decade.

The car’s design is said to have benefitted from the more efficient packaging of the electric architecture. Its look is heavily inspired by classic grand tourers of yesteryear, with a long bonnet, double bubble roof and taught rear. Two butterfly doors enable wide access to both rows of seating. They open automatically using fingerprint controls or biometric facial recognition, which uses a sensor mounted in the B-pillar.

Inside, classic design features are mixed with modern technology. The seats have chevron quilting, while the dashboard takes the form of a classic sports car’s, but houses a wide infotainment display. Much of the cabin has been produced using 3D printing; the carbonfibre trim is produced with a 3D layering technique.

The Essentia Concept also demonstrates new uses for machine learning technology. It can recommend new routes for a journey based on a driver’s own personal character and also adjust seating position, powertrain responses and chassis settings. It can seamlessly integrate with a driver’s Internet of Things devices and home.

The production model has yet to be signed off, but Autocar understands that the car is on course to be part six new Genesis models due for launch by 2021. Although initially focused on the US market, the cars could follow the production GT into Europe.

Hyundai culled a saloon with the Genesis name from its UK line-up last year, clearing space for the Genesis brand to be introduced here in the future.

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