Genesis constructed a particular off-road model of its GV80 luxurious SUV for racing legend—and present model accomplice—Jacky Ickx.
Noticed in a publish on the Instagram web page of Genesis’ European arm, the GV80 Desert Edition has typical off-road modifications like a raised trip peak, knobby tires, a roof rack with LED mild bar, and outstanding restoration hooks. The modified SUV additionally wears a Dubai license plate with a “Efficiency by W Motors” body, indicating its transformation was achieved with assist from that Center Japanese supercar builder.
The Desert Version was introduced to Ickx on the eve of the 2025 Dakar Rally. Ickx gained this occasion’s predecessor, then generally known as the Paris-Dakar Rally, in 1983, when the rally truly completed in Dakar, Senegal. The instability of that a part of Africa led organizers to maneuver the rally first to South America after which to its present residence in Saudi Arabia.
Ickx is is maybe higher recognized for his exploits on pavement, although. The Belgian and gained the 24 Hours of Le Mans six occasions, scored eight Method 1 victories, and gained a Can-Am championship, amongst different accomplishments. He even examined for NASCAR legend Junior Johnson in 1969, however opted to not pursue oval racing after crashing the automotive.
Genesis introduced in Ickx as a model accomplice in February 2024. The luxurious model claims he’ll be offering enter on its new Magma efficiency sub-brand, which goals to tackle the likes of BMW M and Mercedes-AMG.
Including additional cachet to Magma is a racing program that features entries within the premiere Hypercar and GTP lessons of the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA SportsCar Championship. The automaker shall be racing a newly developed race automotive dubbed the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar. Ickx can be serving as an advisor to this program, which goals to have vehicles on monitor in 2026.