Hyundai Motor Group has officially unveiled its ambitious entry into endurance racing with the introduction of the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar.
The groundbreaking vehicle is set to make its competitive debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the brand as it seeks to establish itself in the high-stakes world of motorsport.
The launch event, held in Dubai, showcased not only the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar but also the newly formed Genesis Magma Racing team which will spearhead the brand’s racing endeavors.
The Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar will utilize a chassis supplied by Oreca to compete under the LMDh (Le Mans Daytona hybrid) regulations, a category that brings together manufacturers from both the FIA WEC and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
This innovative racing format allows for a hybrid powertrain configuration, which has become a hallmark of modern endurance racing.
While specific technical details regarding the GMR-001’s engine and performance specifications have yet to be disclosed, it is expected to deliver a total system output of 698 horsepower, with a portion of that power coming from an electric motor.
The minimum weight requirement for vehicles in this category is set at 1,030 kilograms, ensuring that the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar is built for speed and efficiency on some of the world’s most challenging racetracks.
The design of the GMR-001 is striking and reflects Genesis’ commitment to “Athletic Elegance.” The car features the brand’s signature Two Lines lighting—a hallmark of its road cars—along with a sweeping parabolic line that enhances aerodynamic efficiency.
Following confirmation in September, and reports last year, Hyundai has teased first images of their Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar.
Other design elements include pronounced fenders with large air channels, a capsule-shaped canopy, and oversized aerodynamic components such as an expansive front splitter and a massive rear wing equipped with an active spoiler.
Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Genesis, emphasized that motorsport allows the brand to merge speed with elegance while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and luxury.
“This entry into motorsport is a natural evolution for Genesis,” said Donckerwolke. “As we look to push the boundaries of our brand, motorsport allows us to bring the spirit of hyperspeed—which drives how we create and innovate—in a way that aligns perfectly with our core values: Audacious, Progressive, and Distinctly Korean.
“The Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar and our Magma models represent a fusion of Genesis’ performance ambitions with our design-driven DNA.
“From the intense orange of Magma, symbolising Korean passion and energy, to the precision engineering behind each component, we are entering a new chapter where speed meets elegance.”
Genesis Magma Racing will be led by Cyril Abiteboul, a prominent figure in motorsport who previously served as head of Renault F1. Under his leadership, the team aims to build a competitive program that leverages Hyundai Motorsport’s extensive experience in rallying and other racing disciplines.
“The official launch of Genesis Magma Racing is a momentous occasion,” said Abiteboul. “As the backbone of Hyundai Motor Group’s global motorsport activities, Hyundai Motorsport will play a vital role in this latest ambitious program.
“We are elevating our circuit racing expertise to a whole new level as we prepare to compete in some of the world’s most challenging series.”
Genesis has also announced that renowned drivers Andre Lotterer and Pipo Derani will pilot the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar. Lotterer brings extensive experience to the team, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times with Audi and possessing two WEC championships.
“I am beyond thrilled and thankful to join the Genesis brand for its entry into endurance racing,” said Lotterer.
“After winning the FIA Hypercar World Endurance Drivers’ Championship this year, this opportunity is the perfect fit for me to channel my work, experience, passion and motivation into a new project with a team of highly ambitious individuals.
“I am excited to start working on this project and build a successful future from the very beginning.”
Derani is no stranger to endurance racing either; he has achieved significant success in IMSA events, including victories at prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Daytona.
“The ambition behind Genesis’s endurance racing project and the track record of those involved was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse,“ Derani added. “As a driver, being involved in a project from the start is highly rewarding.
“I look forward to bringing my experience of developing cars and winning titles to the team. Given the competitiveness of LMDh, it will be a big challenge, but I believe all the necessary ingredients are here to make this endurance journey successful.”
As part of its strategic plan, Genesis Magma Racing will operate from a permanent base at Circuit Paul Ricard in France. This location provides proximity to key partners such as Oreca Motorsport and IDEC Sport, facilitating collaboration and technical development.
Besides the strategic decision to enter 2026 FIA WEC, plans are also underway to field the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship starting 2027.
Furthermore, during the development phase an LMP2 car will be entered into the European Le Mans Series in 2025 as part of their preparation efforts.
The team’s operations are set to commence by mid-2025, with on-track testing scheduled for summer 2025 in preparation for their inaugural race season.
