The large Genesis electric SUV is gaining momentum, the performance sub-brand Magma is coming onto the market
Genesis unveiled two very different new concept vehicles on Monday evening – one hinting at a flagship electric SUV for the brand, the other pointing to the direction of a new performance program that will bring fast versions of Hyundai to the luxury brand’s increasingly electrified lineup.
The Neolun concept is almost certainly a preview of what is widely expected “super-sized” Genesis GV90which, according to a recent report citing South Korean workers, is scheduled to be produced there in 2026. Genesis did not initially disclose the dimensions of the concept, but whether it would be close to the largest American SUVs such as the Cadillac Escalade and upcoming models electric Escalade IQ, there could be three lines in production. Here in the concept there are only two rows, maximizing the lounge-like space with rear-swivel front seats.
Genesis Neolun Concept – 2024 New York Auto Show
The concept essentially calls for a very boxy, upright shape – common to large, three-row SUVs – but the coach’s lack of side pillars or B-pillars combined with wide-opening doors serves a dual purpose, helping to to eliminate this problem vehicle lines and side design as well as adherence to the cross-vehicle principle of “reductive design”. There’s almost no sculpting, although bright strip lighting extends from the front to the fenders in the form of a Genesis grille, and the taillights respond horizontally in lockstep.
Genesis Neolun Concept – 2024 New York Auto Show
Genesis Neolun Concept – 2024 New York Auto Show
The running board side steps extend downwards when required and then retract to a hidden position, while the running lights are designed to be integrated into the body design. A folding roof rack remains true to the aerodynamically optimized but horizontal body design.
Inside, the Neolun concept embodies Korean hospitality with a radiant heating system inspired by the “ondol,” a traditional underfloor heating system – even in modern versions – that essentially turns the floor into a heated path to the fireplace chimney. In this concept, the floor itself is made of real wood, while the cabin is finished in Royal Indigo cashmere and Purple Silk leather.
The radiant heat idea goes far beyond a gimmick and could probably reach the production model. A study conducted by Ford engineers and funded by the European Commission concluded last year Intelligent radiant heating of surfaces instead of cabin air could save energy and increase the range of electric vehicles. Several suppliers are reportedly working on this idea, as supplier ZF announced last year heated seat belts as a bio-informed hack that allows cabin temperatures to be set lower while maintaining comfort.
In some versions, radiant heat is already used on armrests and side walls BMW i7and in the ground on versions for the Japanese market Toyota bZ4X.
Genesis Neolun Concept – 2024 New York Auto Show
The Neolun’s interface feels relaxed, at least visually: the driver’s controls are kept to a minimum, save for a fairly large screen, and there’s a deep steering wheel with a row of touch-sensitive selectors and just a few other controls on the center console and center of the dashboard.
A flexible screen unfolds in the rear headliner area, and the sound system places its various speakers, tweeters and subwoofers for a concert hall-like feel – with the crystal ball on the center console transforming itself into a tweeter.
Genesis GV60 Magma – New York Auto Show 2024
Magma promises rapid performance, numbers are not yet available
Separately, Genesis is launching its Magma program, which aims to develop a high-performance version of every production model in the range – incorporating the expertise of F1 racing legend Jacky Ickx. The first such version, also shown on Monday, is a GV60 Magma Concept that the brand confirmed will be in production.
The GV60 Magma is closely based on other versions of the 2024 Genesis GV60 EV, but it has been widened and lowered, and it gets “improved battery and motor technology,” according to the brand, which provided no further details about what changes or how much power or acceleration might be increased. Additional lower air intakes help cool the engines and brakes, while huge 21-inch wheels with aero discs further serve this purpose, regulating airflow with roof fins and a rear wing designed for rear downforce.
The changes to the cabin of the GV60 Magma are less radical. The package includes body-color seatbacks, diamond-stitched Nappa and suede leather, as well as stitching and other elements that highlight the orange and gray tones that help differentiate the performance sub-brand.
Genesis Magma Lineup – New York Auto Show 2024
Genesis launched these models alongside the GV80 Coupe Concept, the G80 Magma Special, neither of which are hybrid or electric vehicles, and the high-performance model X Gran Berlinetta Concept Hybrid shown in December.
