Jacky Ickx Makes a Historic Return to Bathurst

International motor racing legend Jacky Ickx has made a remarkable return to Mount Panorama after 45 years. This visit comes as he gears up for the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race. His presence at this iconic Australian racetrack has ignited excitement among motorsport fans and enthusiasts alike, with much attention centered on the Jacky Ickx Genesis Bathurst initiative.

Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept Unveiled

During his visit, Ickx drove the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept on its global racetrack debut at Bathurst. This stunning concept car was first revealed at the 2023 Gran Turismo World Series Finals in Barcelona. It has been available for virtual racing in Gran Turismo since January 2024. More details on this can be found on the Korean Car Blog.

Ickx described the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta as a wildly powerful and loud machine. Reviews from the crowd highlighted its impressive visual and auditory presence. The car’s dynamics under Ickx’s skilled hands left a lasting impression on attendees.

Genesis GV60 Magma Concept Performance

In addition to the X Gran Berlinetta, Jacky Ickx also took the wheel of the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept. This all-electric luxury vehicle showcased its capabilities around the Bathurst circuit. Previously, it made a strong impression at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, winning its class and securing 16th place overall in the Shootout. Additional information is available at the Driving Enthusiast website.

The GV60 Magma Concept is expected to enter production later in 2025. It is set to be the first Genesis Magma model available for sale. The vehicle is anticipated to feature a high-performance electric powertrain similar to that of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N.

Performance and Impressions at Bathurst

Jacky Ickx shared insights about the contrasting experiences of driving the two concepts at Bathurst. He noted the vast difference between the loud, powerful X Gran Berlinetta and the quieter yet immensely powerful GV60 Magma Concept. He praised the modern electric vehicle for its instant torque and thrust, highlighting advancements in automotive technology.

A Gift to the National Motor Racing Museum

Further adding to the significance of his visit, Ickx donated the trophy from his 1977 Bathurst 1000 victory. This donation was made at the request of his co-driver Allan Moffat. The trophy will now reside at the National Motor Racing Museum at Mount Panorama, an honor that reflects Ickx’s enduring legacy in motorsport.

Insights on the Mount Panorama Circuit

Despite not having seen the Mount Panorama circuit for over 45 years, Ickx found it largely unchanged. According to him, the only notable alteration is a kink added to the Conrod Straight for safety reasons. He described the track as a fantastically challenging circuit, rich with elevation changes that enhance the driving experience.

Technical Characteristics of the Concepts

Genesis X Gran Berlinetta

The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta is developed as part of Polyphony Digital’s Vision Gran Turismo series. It made waves at its global launch and is now a thrilling addition within the virtual racing landscape. The vehicle’s design and performance attributes have captivated both fans and critics. The Genesis website provides further insights.

Genesis GV60 Magma

The Genesis GV60 Magma Concept is an all-electric luxury vehicle set to revolutionize its segment. Its anticipated production launch in late 2025 showcases the brand’s commitment to high-performance electric vehicles. Featuring approximately 478kW of power, the GV60 promises exciting performance coupled with luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who drove the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept at its racetrack debut?

Jacky Ickx drove the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept at its global racetrack debut.

What other vehicle did Jacky Ickx drive at the Bathurst 12 Hour?

Alongside the X Gran Berlinetta, Ickx also operated the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept at Bathurst.

What is the significance of the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept?

This concept is poised to enter production in 2025, marking it as the first Genesis Magma model for sale. Its previous achievements at major events underline its advanced capabilities.

What did Jacky Ickx donate to the National Motor Racing Museum?

Ickx donated his 1977 Bathurst 1000 winning trophy, establishing a significant connection between past victories and current celebrations at Mount Panorama.

Conclusion

Jacky Ickx’s return to Bathurst and his dynamic participation in promoting the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta and GV60 Magma Concepts highlight exciting developments in the automotive world. As the automotive landscape evolves, the blend of history, performance, and innovation stands at the forefront, promising thrilling futures for racing and electric vehicles alike.