Genesis X Convertible concept sheds its roof for EV excitement
Electric motoring could soon get even more fun – and a little breezy.
Genesis has revealed its X Convertible concept, the third concept built off the same electrical architecture.
Whereas the EV market to date has mostly focused on volume models – typically sedans, SUVs and utes – the X Convertible is about style and driving enjoyment.
The four-seat convertible shares its underpinnings with the likes of the Genesis X Concept, the first of the trio to give a glimpse into the design of future EVs from Hyundai-owned brand.
Convertibles are rare in the EV market, but there are some around. The original Tesla was a drop-top and the company has flagged its intention to revive that Roadster with a new model. Polestar also has its boldy-styled 6 that is currently touring Australia.
The X Convertible has bold proportions with a low-slung stance and broad wheel arches with alloy wheels that protrude beyond them.
The signature Genesis parallel light theme is visible from every angle and extends further up front where the lower LED strip outlines the face of the two-door. The tail has a duck tail treatment.
A folding hard-top roof can turn the sizeable convertible into a coupe.
“Genesis started life by producing sedans mainly targeting business users,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Genesis Chief Creative Officer, adding that the company was branching out from the more traditional body shapes.
“While creating a new, differentiated design DNA, we gradually increased the emotional appeal by applying this DNA to the SUV typology. Now, electric powertrains have given us the perfect scenario in which to enjoy nature, and propelled the brand to create vehicles with even greater emotional resonance.”
Inside, the driver is cocooned courtesy of a cockpit that sweeps from the instrument cluster to the centre console.
The Genesis gear selector sphere that debuted in the GV60 appears to have been used in the X Convertible.
Materials have been chosen to celebrate the brand’s Korean heritage.
The navy and orange colours were inspired by Korean houses and are made from recycled materials.
The one-off sound system was created by local artist Guk-il Yu and has created what the company describes as an “immersive audio system”.
Genesis hasn’t detailed what’s going on beneath the sleek skin, although it’s likely it will follow the sporty theme of the exterior. Given its EVs already on sale deliver on performance, we’d expect one that looks like this to step it up a lot further.
Of course, the big questions is whether Genesis will take the X Convertible to market.
There’s no word yet, although clearly the fledgling prestige brand is keen to step up its EV offerings.
“Innovation is the catalyst to becoming more engaged with the environment around us,” said Donckerwolke. “We are in the process of transitioning Genesis into a company that will deliver products for customers to enjoy.”
It seems unlikely Genesis would deliver three stunning concepts without intending to bring some elements – or some entire cars – to market.
