Calling all automotive enthusiasts and thrill-seekers! Brace your mind and body for an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the legendary Nürburgring like never before, courtesy of the exclusive and limited Genesis Track Taxi Nordschleife initiative. This is something that you don't want to miss, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
The global launch event on June 18, 2024, marked the beginning of a thrilling chapter, with the presence of industry visionaries including Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at Genesis, Tyrone Johnson, Head of Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre, and racing icon Jacky Ickx. Their combined influence set the stage for an extraordinary opportunity as they invited us and other media from around the world to partake in heart-racing passenger rides on one of the world's most iconic racetracks.
This ushering in of the Genesis Track Taxi experience allows you to absorb the rich history of motorsport at the Nürburgring, a racetrack nestled in the picturesque Eifel mountains of western Germany. For nearly a century, this formidable track has commanded the admiration of motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. Its profound historical significance and illustrious racing events make it an unassailable draw for drivers and aficionados alike.
So, let's quickly dig into the history of the Nürburgring: Erected in the 1920s, the Nürburgring's Nordschleife swiftly attained distinction as one of the most exacting and relentless racetracks globally. To be clear, the Nordschleife is a specific track within the Nürburgring complex, known for its challenging and undulating layout. Featuring narrow, sinuous thoroughfares, dramatic changes in elevation, and 154 curves, the 12.9-mile Nordschleife poses a daunting trial for even the most adept drivers. Beyond the Nordschleife, the Nürburgring encompasses the Grand Prix circuit.
The Nürburgring has been a silent witness to countless pivotal moments in motorsport. Indeed, those old enough within the crowd of journalists checking out Genesis’ Track Taxi couldn’t help but recall Niki Lauda's infamous crash at the Nürburgring during the 1976 German Grand Prix. The Austrian driver's Ferrari suffered a catastrophic crash on the second lap of the race, resulting in a ferocious blaze that left him with terrible burns and lung damage.
The accident was a defining moment in Formula 1 history, highlighting the dangers of racing and prompting significant safety improvements in the sport. Despite his life-threatening injuries, Niki Lauda displayed incredible resilience, returning to racing just six weeks after his horror smash and ultimately securing the 1977 Formula 1 World Championship. His remarkable comeback at the Nürburgring remains a tribute to his courage and determination, leaving an indelible mark on motorsport history. We miss you, Niki!
It is no surprise then that the Nürburgring’s exacting nature has earned it the nickname 'The Green Hell,' a testament to the extraordinary skill and bravery needed to conquer its twists and turns. But it’s more than just a racetrack – it offers enthusiasts the opportunity to soak up the action. Indeed, according to our Genesis driver, who chauffeured us from the airport to the motorsports complex, it has ballooned in popularity. The driver felt the Nürburgring was withering on the vine a few years ago – but now it’s mushrooming in popularity and size. A new building seems to be grafted onto the motorsports complex each year. And you can see why: whether through public driving sessions, track days, or the thrill of navigating the Nordschleife in a high-performance vehicle, the venue promises a unique and exhilarating experience for all visitors – so demand is skyrocketing.
Despite the challenges and mutations it has weathered across the years, then, the Nürburgring endures as an emblematic motorsports sanctuary. As it continues to allure drivers and enthusiasts from across the planet, the Nürburgring stands as proof of the continuing appeal of cars and the allure of the open road. Irrespective of whether you are a genuine fan of racing or a devotee of automotive history, the Nürburgring guarantees an experience unlike any other.
This brings us again to the dynamic G70 3.3T, which Genesis chose for its Track Taxi Nordschleife programme.
Globally celebrated for its exceptional drivability, advanced technology, and striking coupe-inspired design, the G70 3.3T delivers an astounding yet secure experience on the Nordschleife. Meticulous enhancements to its suspension and dampers, in collaboration with the engineers at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre (Hyundai is Genesis’ parent company), ensure a mind-blowing ride that means a change of underwear is advisable!
Moreover, Genesis has forged a strategic partnership with Michelin, a renowned leader in tyre technology. This collaboration is evidence of the automaker’s commitment to high-performance excellence. Equipped with cutting-edge Michelin Pilot Sport 4S specialised sport tyres, the G70 Track Taxi dares to make mincemeat of the Nürburgring.
Luc Donckerwolke, who still made it to the media event despite it being the eve of his birthday, said: "The launch of the Genesis Track Taxi Nordschleife programme marks an important milestone in our journey to delivering bold, high-performance cars. It will provide Genesis customers and enthusiasts with an unprecedented opportunity to intimately experience the pinnacle of Genesis performance."
Bookings for the Genesis Track Taxi Nordschleife began on June 21, 2024, with the programme scheduled to kick off its high-octane journey on July 6. With space for up to three passengers per ride, we can testify this presents an unmissable opportunity for fans of high-speed thrills. Take the chance to join this groundbreaking chapter in automotive excellence.
If you’re interested, visit https://tracktaxi-nordschleife.genesis.com/ and secure your booking to throw yourself into this unparalleled adventure, where the boundaries of performance and innovation are redefined. You can genuinely unleash your passion for high-speed thrills and witness Genesis' dedication to pushing the envelope of performance at one of the world's most esteemed racetracks. But, as we said earlier – bring a change of underwear!
