Genesis GMR-001 has already completed its first official laps

Genesis Magma Racing successfully completed the initial basic checks of its GMR-001 Hypercar in Le Castellet. During this shakedown—initial tests to verify all systems function correctly before real testing—André Lotterer and Pipo Derani drove the prototype for the first time, one month after the successful engine fire-up on July 9.

The unpainted carbon fiber prototype successfully completed all mechanical and electrical shakedown tests, confirming its readiness for the full testing program on European circuits.

Photo By Genesis

One month after the successful first fire-up

On July 9, Genesis Magma Racing reached a key milestone when its GMR-001 fired up for the first time at ORECA's facilities. That day, technicians tested the engine across all seven gears of the transmission and verified the LMDh hybrid system was functioning correctly.

"In a project like this, you have certain dates marked, and that was one of them," Cyril Abiteboul had declared after the first fire-up. "It was the GMR-001 coming to life, a huge step in Genesis Magma Racing's history."

Since then, ORECA completed the chassis build while Genesis Magma Racing finished equipping its new base in Le Castellet. Now, a month later, both drivers will finally get to drive the car they had only known through the simulator.

V8 engine born from Rally1 experience

The heart of the GMR-001 comes from a bold decision: merging two 1.6-liter turbo engines from the successful Hyundai i20 N Rally1 to create a 3.2-liter twin-turbo V8. Engineers reused 60% of components already proven in the WRC, including pistons, cylinders, connecting rods, and valve systems.

The base has solid credentials: 32 wins, over 90 podiums, and 600 stage wins since 2014. Those same components gave Hyundai three manufacturers' titles and its first drivers' championship with Thierry Neuville in 2024.

Development of the dedicated V8 began in June 2024, and last month's first fire-up confirmed the technical gamble was working.

Photo By Genesis

Lotterer and Derani completed virtual calibration

While waiting for the physical chassis, both drivers didn't waste time. Lotterer and Derani dedicated multiple sessions to the team's simulator, calibrating the virtual model of the GMR-001 and establishing baseline setups to maximize early testing.

The preparatory work paid off during the successful shakedown, where both drivers got their first taste of the real GMR-001 after weeks in the simulator. François-Xavier Demaison, technical director, confirmed the prior preparation was key: "The work André and Pipo have done in the simulator and during the shakedown gives us a solid starting point for the first tests."

Photo By Genesis

Ready for full testing on European circuits

With the shakedown successfully completed and both drivers now familiar with the prototype, Genesis Magma Racing will soon begin full testing on European circuits. Data from each session will return to Le Castellet for analysis, creating a continuous development cycle between track, workshop, and simulator. ORECA will remain as technical partner throughout the process, maintaining the accelerated pace that has characterized the project since its December announcement. The goal remains clear: debut in the 2026 WEC, including Le Mans, with planned IMSA GTP participation in 2027.