Genesis unveiled its groundbreaking Essentia Concept at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. The all-electric, high-performance concept elevates and reimagines the Hyundai luxury division’s Athletic Elegance design paradigm, while providing a vision of future Genesis product performance and technology.
Essentia is the brand’s first battery electric vehicle and features a lightweight carbon-fibre monocoque, a robust multi-motor electric powertrain and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is the brand’s initial concept for a true GT car and challenges the status quo as the ultimate manifestation of Genesis design and engineering. As a capable, thrilling sports car designed to counter the complexities of a modern lifestyle, Essentia offers serenity, clarity, and beauty.
Throughout the design, the company’s philosophy of Athletic Elegance has a prominent role, marrying power and precision through artistry. Essentia takes its inspiration from iconic Gran Turismo proportions, with a long bonnet and a swept-back cabin. Finished in Stardust Gray Metallic, the carbon fibre-bodied Essentia is positioned low to the ground intentionally, to make it instantly recognisable through a graceful silhouette.
The underlying design theory behind the cabin of Essentia was to maximise the connection between car and driver. Reducing clutter and focusing on beautifully executed details, while displaying the elegant, transparent cockpit cell, was critical.
Underneath the carbon-fibre monocoque of Essentia is a state-of-the-art, high-density battery pack and multiple electric motors that enable a powerful, confident driving experience. The electric powertrain allowed Genesis Design to redefine classic GT proportions with an extremely low, transparent hood that flows seamlessly into the windshield and the “bubble” roof.
The battery pack is housed in the centre tunnel in an I-shape structure, as opposed to underneath the passenger compartment. This allows Essentia to achieve the super-low, 1270mm roofline and spacious, GT-style cabin. With an estimated 0-to-100km/h time of 3 seconds, Essentia brings sports car-level performance to the realm of electric luxury coupes. 
Check out another Korean exoticar concept, the Hyundai ‘Le Fil Rouge’.
Check out the Genesis G70, which joins the G80 and G90 in Hyundai’s premium range.
