Genesis, the luxury vehicle division of South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group, has unveiled the third of its Genesis X Concept electric vehicles, taking the lid off the X Convertible in California.
As part of the company’s continuing efforts to highlight the importance of its design language, Genesis unveiled the first Genesis X Concept back in early 2021. A year later, Genesis debuted the cleverly named X Speedium Coupe.
The final part of the Genesis X trilogy of concept vehicles was unveiled in California this week, serving to demonstrate the company’s “design versatility”.
The four-passenger open-roof concept is just that, a concept, focused solely on the exterior and interior design of the car. As such, the Genesis X Convertible does not represent a technical hint at the future, with no information given regarding acceleration, speed, battery capacity, etc.
Unveiled at an “intimate viewing” in California, the X Convertible is clearly part of the concept lineage started with the X Concept. Both the X Convertible and X Speedium Coupe were designed with Genesis’ signature “Athletic Elegance” and showcased an evolution of the Genesis Crest Grille, which evolved into a lightning signature.
According to Genesis, the “X Convertible concept takes the X Speedium Coupe concept further up the emotional scale.”
“Genesis started life by producing sedans mainly targeting business users,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Genesis chief creative officer.
“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.”
A folding hardtop roof integrates a “moon” roof above the front occupants to provide an open feeling even when the lid is down. A long bonnet, generous dash-to-axle, short front overhang, and long wheelbase are all drawn rearward towards the long deck.
Characteristic Genesis two-line lights are again featured on the X Convertible which also highlight the Crest Grille and the new EV face. The cooling function for the powertrain and batteries is now located to lower openings in the front bumper.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.