HCD-14 Genesis Concept Showcases Future Tech for Hyundai

[Hyundai NEWS]

Photo: Charles Krome
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After establishing a foothold in the premium segments with the Hyundai Genesis, then successfully building on that foundation with the ultra-luxurious Hyundai Equus, Hyundai recently revealed a sleek and technologically advanced concept vehicle that will mark out a new path for the brand’s most demanding customers.
The HCD-14 Genesis—which debuted at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit—signals its aspirations with a particularly sleek exterior shape that’s highlighted by “gemstone-like design surfaces” and brushed metal accents, traditional long in front/short in back sports-car proportions, and short overhangs that emphasize its forceful stance. Especially striking is the front of the car, where detailed LED light treatments set off a simple yet bold grille design.
Beneath that sculpted skin, Hyundai designers have created an ideal environment for both the driver and passengers alike, with a surprisingly airy cabin that back-seat occupants enter through rear-hinged doors—a style cue inspired by the similarly configured hidden third door on the Hyundai Veloster. And speaking of controls, Hyundai has eschewed the traditional knobs and buttons for typical media, climate and navigation functionality and replaced them with state-of-the-art technologies that rely on eye-tracking and the ability to recognize three-dimensional hand gestures—as well as voice control—to drastically minimize the opportunity for driver distractions.
The system opens up new horizons for the auto industry, but that’s nothing new for Hyundai.
“We’ve departed from industry convention in many of our premium product, marketing, sales and service approaches, and it’s worked out pretty well, with Genesis and Equus now delivering a nine percent retail market share in their premium segments, higher than the five percent retail share Hyundai brand achieves in the overall industry,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “This success paves the way for a new generation of rear-wheel drive premium products. HCD-14 Genesis gives a hint of the design direction we’ll be taking, and an indication of the focus we’re placing on driving dynamics and technology.”