Genesis Successfully Tests LMDh Hypercar Engine for 2026 WEC Season

Genesis reached a significant milestone in preparation for the 2026 World Endurance Championship (WEC) – the team successfully tested their 3.2L twin-turbo V8 engine in their GMR-001 Hypercar at ORECA Motorsport workshop near Paul Ricard circuit.

Genesis Magma Racing team principal Cyril Abiteboul described this moment as “GMR-001 Hypercar coming to life” – a major achievement in the team’s journey.

Technical team successfully tested all seven transmission gears and the standard hybrid system – charging batteries from the engine and directing energy to rear driveshafts as it would on track. The engine is developed from technology used by Hyundai in World Rally Championship.

The project, which began last September, is running on schedule. Three-time Le Mans winner Andre Lotterer and four-time Sebring 12 Hours victor Pipo Derani have been confirmed as drivers for the two GMR-001 units that will compete in the 2026 season.

“We have tried to minimise the risks, which is why we went with known technology for the engine,” explained Abiteboul.