The world of motorsport is about to welcome an ambitious newcomer to the Hypercar endurance category. Genesis, the luxury brand of the Hyundai group, is going full throttle to bring its GMR-001 LMDh prototype to the WEC starting grid in 2026.
With bold technical solutions, including the integration of WRC-derived engines, and preparation in LMP2 as early as 2025, the goal is clear: to make a statement at Le Mans.
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WRC Engines at the heart of a Hypercar
To save time and meet tight deadlines, Genesis has taken an unconventional approach to power its hypercar. Instead of developing a traditional V6 or V8, the brand will combine two four-cylinder engines used in the World Rally Championship (WRC) by Hyundai Motorsport to create a turbocharged V8. This choice, validated by Cyril Abiteboul, president of Hyundai Motorsport, is not merely a matter of necessity. These engines are known for their fuel efficiency, light weight, and ease of maintenance, all critical attributes for grueling races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In compliance with LMDh regulations, the hybrid V8’s output will be limited to 671 horsepower, ensuring optimal performance when integrated into a chassis provided by Oreca, a benchmark in endurance racing.
A strategic step forward in LMP2
Before entering the top category, Genesis will face a baptism by fire in LMP2 in 2025. This project, conducted in partnership with IDEC Sport, aims to build and solidify a team fully dedicated to endurance racing: Genesis Magma Racing. Unlike Ferrari or Porsche, Genesis has chosen to manage its LMDh program entirely in-house, a bold decision that could prove to be either a major strength or an additional challenge. This learning phase in LMP2 will allow Genesis to fine-tune its operations and foster synergy between engineers and drivers. According to Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at Hyundai, this step is crucial for assembling a united team capable of meeting the challenges of endurance racing.
An ambitious vision for the future
Genesis is not just entering the WEC; it aims to deliver a complete performance package. The GMR-001, meticulously designed to balance efficiency and durability, embodies this ambition. This project is part of a broader strategy for the brand, which seeks to prove that it can compete with established giants like Ferrari, Porsche, and Toyota. Genesis’ approach is built on innovation and collaboration within the Hyundai group. By leveraging Hyundai’s successes in WRC and endurance racing, the brand hopes to break traditional boundaries and offer a fresh perspective in the hypercar world.
This article delves into the innovative technical choices behind Genesis’ GMR-001 hypercar, its strategic foray into LMP2 in 2025, and the ambitious goals of a brand ready to shake up the WEC elite. Through this venture, Genesis demonstrates that innovation and meticulous preparation are the keys to succeeding in such a demanding discipline.
Images: © Genesis
