Jacky Ickx : The 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race is poised to be a historic event as Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis, makes its much-anticipated debut at the iconic Mount Panorama circuit. This event is not just significant for Genesis but also for motorsport enthusiasts across Australia and beyond. The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta concept car will be driven by the legendary Jacky Ickx, a name synonymous with racing excellence. As we delve deeper into this exciting development, we will explore the significance of this event, the vehicles involved, and the legacy of Jacky Ickx.
The Bathurst 12 Hour: A Brief History (Jacky Ickx)
The Bathurst 12 Hour is one of Australia’s premier endurance racing events, held annually at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales. The race has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1991, originally as a 12-hour race for production cars. Over the years, it has evolved into a prestigious event that attracts top teams and drivers from around the world.
Mount Panorama, with its challenging layout and elevation changes, is considered one of the most iconic racing circuits globally. The 12-hour race format tests not only the speed but also the endurance and strategy of the teams involved. The event has seen participation from various manufacturers, making it a showcase for automotive innovation and performance.
Genesis: A New Player in High-Performance Racing
Genesis, established in 2015 as Hyundai’s luxury division, has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality, design, and performance. With a focus on creating vehicles that offer a premium experience, Genesis has been expanding its lineup to include high-performance models that can compete with established luxury brands.
The decision to enter the Bathurst 12 Hour is a strategic move for Genesis, signaling its intent to establish itself in the high-performance automotive market. By participating in such a prestigious event, Genesis aims to showcase its engineering capabilities and attract a new audience of motorsport enthusiasts.
The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept
At the heart of Genesis’s Bathurst debut is the X Gran Berlinetta, a high-powered hybrid concept car that has been generating excitement since its introduction. The vehicle’s design is a testament to Genesis’s commitment to blending luxury with performance. The X Gran Berlinetta features a striking exterior with aerodynamic lines, a bold front grille, and an aggressive stance that commands attention on the track.
Technical Specifications
Engine: Mid-mounted ‘Lambda II’ V6 petrol engine
Power Output: 799 kW (approximately 1,073 horsepower)
Torque: 1,337 Nm
Hybrid System: Combines petrol engine with an electric motor for enhanced performance and efficiency
Performance: Expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 3 seconds
The hybrid powertrain not only delivers exhilarating performance but also aligns with the growing demand for more sustainable automotive solutions. The X Gran Berlinetta’s participation in the Bathurst 12 Hour will showcase its capabilities in a competitive environment, allowing fans to witness its performance firsthand.
Jacky Ickx: A Racing Legend (Jacky Ickx)
Jacky Ickx is a name that resonates with motorsport fans around the world. Born in Belgium in 1945, Ickx’s racing career spans several decades and includes remarkable achievements across various disciplines, including Formula 1, sports car racing, and endurance events.
Career Highlights (Jacky Ickx)
Le Mans Victories: Ickx secured six wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, making him one of the most successful drivers in the event’s history.
Formula 1: He competed in 114 Grands Prix, achieving eight victories and earning a reputation as a skilled and versatile driver.
Bathurst 1000 Victory: Ickx’s win at the 1977 Bathurst 1000, co-driving a Ford Falcon XC with Allan Moffat, remains a highlight of his career.
Ickx’s return to Bathurst, now at the age of 80, brings a sense of nostalgia and excitement to the event. His extensive experience and racing prowess will be invaluable as he pilots the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta around the challenging Mount Panorama circuit.
The Genesis GV60 Magma Concept
In addition to the X Gran Berlinetta, Genesis will also showcase the GV60 Magma Concept at Bathurst. This electric SUV has already made waves by winning its class at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The GV60 Magma is designed to compete with established high-performance brands like Mercedes-AMG and BMW M, featuring a dual-motor setup that is expected to deliver around 478 kW (approximately 641 horsepower) and 770 Nm of torque.
Technical Specifications (Jacky Ickx)
Powertrain: Dual-motor electric setup
Power Output: 478 kW (approximately 641 horsepower)
Torque: 770 Nm
Performance: Expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds
The GV60 Magma represents Genesis’s commitment to expanding its performance lineup and is set to enter production later this year, with plans for a showroom-ready version available in Australia by 2026. Its presence at Bathurst will further highlight Genesis’s dedication to innovation and performance in the electric vehicle segment.
The Significance of Genesis’s Bathurst Debut (Jacky Ickx)
Genesis’s entry into the Bathurst 12 Hour is significant for several reasons:
Brand Recognition: Participating in such a prestigious event allows Genesis to elevate its brand recognition and showcase its commitment to performance and luxury.
Performance Validation: The Bathurst 12 Hour provides a platform for Genesis to validate its engineering capabilities and performance credentials in a competitive environment.
Engaging New Audiences: By entering the world of motorsport, Genesis aims to engage a new audience of enthusiasts who may not be familiar with the brand.
Sustainability Focus: The inclusion of hybrid and electric vehicles in the race aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability in the automotive industry, showcasing Genesis’s commitment to eco-friendly performance.
The Bathurst 12 Hour Event: What to Expect (Jacky Ickx)
The Bathurst 12 Hour is scheduled for January 31 to February 2, 2025, and promises to be an exciting event for fans and participants alike. The race will feature a mix of sports cars and sedans, providing a diverse and competitive field.
Event Highlights
Track to Town Parade: A special parade where selected cars will drive from Mount Panorama to the center of Bathurst, engaging the local community and fans.
Fan Engagement: The event will include various activities for fans, including meet-and-greet opportunities with drivers and team members.
Live Coverage: The race will be broadcast live, allowing fans from around the world to witness the action.
As Genesis takes to the track, fans can expect an exhilarating atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation. The participation of Jacky Ickx and the debut of the X Gran Berlinetta and GV60 Magma will undoubtedly make this event one to remember.
Genesis’s debut at the Bathurst 12 Hour with the X Gran Berlinetta and GV60 Magma Concepts marks a significant step in the brand’s journey into the high-performance automotive market. With Jacky Ickx at the helm of the X Gran Berlinetta, fans are in for an unforgettable experience. As Genesis aims to redefine its image and compete with established luxury brands, the Bathurst 12 Hour will be a pivotal moment in showcasing its commitment to performance and innovation.
This event not only highlights the capabilities of Genesis vehicles but also celebrates the spirit of motorsport and the passion of fans. As the countdown to the Bathurst 12 Hour begins, excitement builds for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of automotive excellence.