Over the years, Hyundai has been transforming its image to be a bit of performance powerhouse by competing in famous racing series such as the World Rally Championship (WRC) and Touring Car Racing (TCR). This direction has led to the development of various models under the N brand, which includes hot hatchbacks and sedans, as well as a performance electric vehicle (EV).
Now, Hyundai Motorsport – the performance arm of the South Korean carmaker – has revealed that it will take part in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), an FIA championship that includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans, under the Genesis brand, although no timeframe was mentioned in the announcement posted on social media.
What was made known is a works team will compete in the LMDh (Le Mans Daytona h) category, which is one of two in the WEC’s top Hypercar class, the other being LMH (Le Mans Hypercar). If you’re curious what’s the difference, LMH allows a manufacturer to design and develop its own car from nose to tail.
On the other hand, LMDh cars must use a certain percentage of off-the-shelf components, most notably the monocoque and suspension, which are provided by four licenced companies: Dallara, Multimatic, Ligier and Oreca.
The ‘h’ in LMDh refers to the mandatory hybrid system that all cars in this category are fitted with. Manufacturers are given the freedom to choose what sort of internal combustion engine to use but the spec hybrid system, including the gearbox, is standardised for all teams.
Genesis will be going up against race cars from Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Porsche, Alpine and Lamborghini in the LMDh category. Reports suggest an entry will take place in 2026 but this has yet to be confirmed.
“The LMDh program will add a new pillar to Hyundai Motorsport’s portfolio. Since its establishment in 2012, Hyundai Motorsport has been competing in WRC and TCR with Hyundai N brand. Genesis, the premium brand of the Hyundai Motor Group, will add endurance racing to the disciplines of its motorsport activities,” the company said in its statement.
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