Genesis Boss Is Pushing For A Production Version Of The Essentia Concept

Genesis recently used the New York Auto Show to unveil the Essentia concept and now the company’s boss has revealed he is pushing for a production variant.

Speaking to Motor Trend, Manfred Fitzgerald said “It’s not approved for production yet” but “I’m pushing for it.” He went on to say the company is “testing the waters” in New York and the model could go into production as early as 2021 or 2022.

Despite sounding optimistic, the chances of seeing a production variant seem incredibly slim as the Essentia concept was a bespoke GT car which featured carbon fiber bodywork, a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis and an electric powertrain which could accommodate multiple motors. The model also had an ultra-luxurious cabin with premium leather upholstery and layered carbon fiber trim.

While production seems like a long shot, design cues from the concept could easily reach road-going models. In particular, the Essentia used the “quad lights” that originally debuted on the GV80 concept. The company hasn’t been shy about their plans to use them on future models as Genesis openly refers them as a “signature” of the brand.

Another styling cue which could make the jump to production is the reinterpreted “crest grille.” The concept used a wider and shorter version of the grille which gave it more of a diamond-shaped appearance than today’s shield-like design.

The concept’s electric powertrain is also a subtle reminder that Genesis is working on an electric vehicle. Little is known about the model but the company has already confirmed it will arrive in 2021.

The automaker also has plans to introduce a successor to the Hyundai Genesis Coupe which was phased out in 2016. The model is expected to be heavily influenced by the G70 so it will likely be be a rear-wheel drive model that offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 252 hp (187 kW) and a twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 developing 365 hp (272 kW).