Akmal Azhar
Genesis has unveiled a significant milestone in its motorsport ambitions with the GMR-001 Hypercar, offering fans and critics alike their first true glimpse of what promises to be a striking contender on the international endurance racing scene.
Testing and Driver Feedback
Built with a chassis engineered by French motorsport specialist Oreca, the GMR-001 has already logged over 500 laps on the test track. During these initial trials, the team placed emphasis on fine-tuning both the mechanical and electrical systems, while garnering invaluable driver feedback on the engine’s behavior. Drivers André Lotterer and Pipo Derani, having already familiarised themselves with the machine via Genesis’ sophisticated simulator, then headed out for initial shakedown runs on smaller circuits. Chief engineer Justin Taylor remarked on the unexpectedly positive performance, admitting the car was progressing faster than anticipated.
Expanding Trials in Europe
As testing progresses, Genesis plans to expand trials across European racetracks, executing extended race simulations to ensure the vehicle is fully prepared for the rigours of the 2026 endurance racing calendar. Oversight of this high-stakes programme falls to ex-Caterham and Renault F1 team boss Cyril Abiteboul, who now leads Genesis Magma Racing with a firm, steady hand.
Striking Magma Orange Design
Visually, the GMR-001 cuts a dramatic figure. Genesis has released photos showcasing the car in a bold “magma orange” hue—an apt nod to its burgeoning Magma performance sub-brand. The striking paintwork mirrors the team’s ambition and aesthetic identity as much as it does the brand’s sporting pedigree.
Innovative Franken-V8 Engine
Under the technical hood, the GMR-001 carries an innovative Franken-V8 engine, constructed by combining two of Hyundai’s 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbo rally powerplants. This clever engineering results in a compact yet potent 3.2-litre twin-turbo V8, marrying rally heritage with endurance racing ambition.
Launch and Early Milestones
Genesis officially launched the concept behind the GMR-001 at the New York International Auto Show in April 2025, revealing both a life-size model and a vivid team identity—including livery and race suits that pay homage to the brand’s Korean roots. In late July, the team successfully fired up the V-8 engine for the first time, testing energy recovery and drive functions as part of its hybrid system evaluation.
Future Racing Plans
The Genesis GMR-001 is slated to join the FIA World Endurance Championship in the Hypercar class for its debut during the 2026 season, followed by entry into the IMSA SportsCar Championship in 2027. Its presence will inevitably be felt by rivals such as Ferrari, Porsche, Toyota, and other racing luminaries.
Yusri Ng
