Genesis Mint Concept Unveiled As A Tiny Electric Hatchback Without The Hatch

Following a handful of teasers, Genesis has officially unveiled the all-new Mint concept.

Looking like Genesis’ take on the Hyundai Veloster, the Mint is a small hatchback-like vehicle with an aerodynamic front fascia that features LED headlights and a tiny crest grille. The model also has muscular fenders and an oddball rear end which recalls the 2009 Aston Martin Lagonda concept.

Despite the hatchback-like styling, the Mint has two scissor-style doors which open to provide access to a parcel shelf behind the front seats.  The shelf is relatively small and Genesis said it was designed to temporarily stash items that are essential for day-to-day life.

Speaking of the rear end, the Mint has a centrally located charging port above the Genesis badge.  The car has also been equipped with slender LED taillights that are connected by a thin strip.

Elsewhere, we can see five-spoke alloy wheels and a panoramic glass roof.  There are also lower body panels with a “G-Matrix pattern” which allows air to flow around the car’s battery pack.

The unique styling continues in the cabin as the Mint has a cognac leather bench seat which provides a “cozy space” for two people.  They sit between a center console which can be folded away when not in use.

While the cabin is largely devoid of switchgear, the stylish steering wheel is surrounded by six information screens which apparently work as shortcut buttons.  The model also has a seventh screen which is integrated into the steering wheel and acts as an instrument cluster and infotainment system.

Since the Mint is a concept, Genesis didn’t say much about technical specifications.  However, the company confirmed the car has a high-density battery pack which enables it to travel approximately 200 miles (322 km) on a single charge.  The concept also has a 350 kW fast recharging system, but the automaker declined to say how long the recharging process would take.

While we shouldn’t expect to see a production model, Genesis billed the Mint and as an evolution of the city car.  Hyundai Motor Group chief design officer Luc Donckerwolke also said “The Mint concept disconnects the physical dimensions of the vehicle from its positioning as a premium product, calquing the city car of the past to today.”