Genesis Shows Luxury City Car Concept

Hyundai Motor Co.’s Genesis brand says its tiny Mint electric concept car shows the potential for a future luxury city car. The vehicle, which has little chance of going into production, was unveiled this week at the New York auto show.

The little two-seater was designed by staffers in Germany, South Korea and the U.S. Genesis describes the result as an “accessory for the modern urban lifestyle.” The stylish coupe features a grille-less front end, thin wraparound LED headlights and taillights, and a sloping roof line.

One of the most unusual elements are the Mint’s scissor-style hatchback doors that open up and outward. Instead of a traditional rear cargo area, the vehicle has a parcel shelf to haul small items that can be accessed easily, Genesis says.

The minimalist passenger compartment is fitted with a bench seat that can rotate toward either door to aid ingress/egress. The rectangular steering wheel is surrounded by six small circular display screens. A seventh screen is positioned in the middle of the steering wheel.

Surfaces are covered in tan leather and metal accents, which Genesis says blends aspects of traditional Korean styling with modern European furniture designs.