Genesis Essentia coupe primed for production

Genesis' global boss Manfred Fitzgerald has fuelled rumours that the premium Korean car-maker is on the eve of approving a production version of its stunning 2018 Essentia concept.

During an interview at yesterday's New York motor show, the global Genesis CEO confirmed that an announcement would be made shortly about the Genesis brand's first pure-electric production car that would be launched in 2021.

Initially, Fitzgerald refused to be drawn on what that car would be, but after being probed further the Genesis vice-president ruled out the Mint concept unveiled just hours earlier.

Since the brand has already announced production of the GV80 SUV for the domestic Korean market would begin in 2019, it leaves the Essentia as the prime candidate for the mystery battery-powered vehicle.

Adding credibility to the rumours is Fitzgerald's reassertion the next production car would be based on a dedicated pure-electric platform -- an attribute shared by the 2018 Essentia coupe concept.

When asked about the rear-drive Essentia's prospects specifically, Fitzgerald replied: "We’re serious about everything we do. Normally in the automotive industry concept cars have a very short shelf life -- they make a big splash and then you don’t tend to see them again.

“We don’t treat them that way. We’re still pursuing the one that you saw last year in a very, very serious manner and hopefully we’ll make an announcement in due time.”

Created under the direction of new head of Genesis, Kia and Hyundai design, ex-Lamborghini and Bentley designer Luc Donckerwolke, the Essentia is also tasked with changing the perception of the Hyundai luxury brand’s design language.

Beneath is carbon-fibre skin, the real vehicle is also likely to remain pure-electric and come equipped with two powerful electric motors that will ensure the fast coupe will be capable of hitting 100km/h in just three seconds.

As well as giving his full public backing for the Essentia, the Genesis boss said he would lobby internally for the Mint to follow on from the brand's first electric offering.

“I will fight to the very end to have this car into production and have it as you’re seeing it right now on the road. Receiving the feedback on it and the overwhelming positive results on it, I think that already shows us the way.

“I think this is an invention of a new typology of vehicle and I think that’s something that will resonate with people out there.

“We’re a design-focussed brand, aesthetics comes before any kind of practicality. Design has to resonate with you at first sight.”

There's no word yet when Genesis plans to announce its pure-electric model plans.