Genesis recently launched its high-performance brand "Magma," introducing a new direction of "luxury high-performance." The first mass-production model, the high-performance electric vehicle "GV60 Magma," has been unveiled. Genesis emphasized that it aims to infuse its high-performance brand with racing DNA, leveraging expertise gained from participating in motorsports.

To see how this "racing DNA" is actually embodied, I experienced the GV60 Magma firsthand on November 21 (local time) at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France. The test drive was extraordinary right from the start. Not only was it special to drive Genesis's first high-performance electric vehicle on a local French circuit, but the driver at the wheel was also a world-class professional.

The driver for the test ride was Andre Lotterer, a top-class racer who has won the "Le Mans 24 Hours"-known as the marathon of racing-three times. He holds a Platinum rating in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), making him one of the world's elite drivers.

Andre Lotterer, a member of the Genesis Magma Team. Photo by Genesis

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I got into the GV60 Magma with Lotterer behind the wheel. As he gave a thumbs-up and signaled the start, the car shot forward like a bullet, pinning me to the seat. The thrill was reminiscent of an amusement park ride. This vehicle's 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is just 3.4 seconds. Notably, it reaches 200 km/h in 10.9 seconds, demonstrating high-speed performance that surpasses its competitors. While the 0 to 100 km/h time showcases initial acceleration, the 0 to 200 km/h figure is an indicator of "real performance"-maintaining power even at high speeds.

Although the initial acceleration was rapid, the car quickly regained stability thanks to Lotterer's expert driving skills. The vehicle responded in real-time to his controls, and despite being an electric car, there was minimal lateral sway or body roll. The central monitor displayed driving data such as battery temperature and lateral acceleration (G-force), allowing for immediate status checks. Lotterer commented, "It's an extremely fun car," demonstrating perfect harmony with the vehicle throughout the drive.

Genesis' first high-performance electric vehicle GV60 Magma is running on the Paul Ricard Circuit in France. Photo by Genesis

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As the speed increased, a virtual engine sound played through the speakers, making it feel almost like driving an internal combustion engine car. Genesis developed a virtual sound for the GV60 Magma that closely resembles that of a high-performance six-cylinder engine.

Most existing high-performance models focus on aggressive and powerful performance. As a result, ride comfort is often sacrificed to prioritize performance. Genesis Magma, however, set the harmony of performance and ride comfort as its ultimate goal. The intention is to deliver both outstanding performance and a comfortable, safe driving experience. To achieve this, Genesis further refined the software to ensure that motor output and torque remain consistent even at high speeds. When boost mode is activated, the vehicle's output and torque are maximized for up to 15 seconds.

Ride comfort and handling stability have also been significantly improved. Genesis lowered the vehicle's roll center (the reference point for body tilt during cornering) and equipped the GV60 Magma with wide tires to enhance grip compared to standard models. The battery and thermal management systems have also been reinforced to maintain stable battery performance even under high-intensity driving conditions.

Genesis' first high-performance electric vehicle GV60 Magma is running on the Paul Ricard Circuit in France. Photo by Genesis

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Because electric vehicles lack engine noise, wind and road/tire noise become more pronounced, making noise reduction technology crucial. Despite being a high-performance car, this vehicle was exceptionally calm and quiet. Genesis increased the thickness of the driver's side noise-blocking film by 7% and applied noise-blocking glass to the rear windows to reduce wind noise. Additionally, active noise control technology (Active Noise Control Road) is standard. This technology detects road noise in real time and emits sound waves of the opposite phase through the vehicle's speakers to cancel out the noise.

The GV60 Magma delivers a maximum output of 650 horsepower and a peak torque of 790 Nm (with boost mode activated). These figures surpass not only the standard GV60 model (490 horsepower, 700 Nm, Performance AWD) but also Hyundai's high-performance N models such as the Ioniq 5N and Ioniq 6N.

Even as a passenger, I could fully experience the power of this high-performance electric vehicle. The luxurious interior and premium design sensibility were also impressive. More than just a "fast car," the GV60 Magma demonstrates the direction Genesis is pursuing in high-performance luxury.

The GV60 Magma is scheduled to launch sequentially in global markets, starting in Korea in January next year, followed by Europe and North America. Pricing has yet to be determined. There is anticipation for how the era of high-performance electric vehicles, ushered in by the GV60 Magma, will transform Genesis.

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