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INTERESTING DESIGN STUDY,BUT RELEVANT? Genesis, the upscale division of Hyundai, provided one of the most dramatic debuts of the recent 2018 New York International Auto Show. The stunning Essentia Concept is a luxury GT and the brand’s first all-electric model. Genesis officials say the lightweight car, which features extensive use of carbon fiber, can accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) from rest in 3.0 seconds. Genesis sells four-door sedans: Does the Essentia signal a new direction for the company? CHANGE IN TIMING CONSIDERED FOR DETROIT AUTO SHOW: Germany-based luxury-car makers Mercedes-Benz and BMW have both decided to skip next year’s North American International Auto Show, which takes place in Detroit each January. The 2018 show was marred by the absence of other industry heavyweights, including Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche and Volvo, and reduced presence by numerous other automakers. With the show appearing to lose some relevance, discussions are under way to move the date to the fall from the dead of winter. Interestingly, the Detroit Auto Dealers Association is of the opinion that moving the dates is not in their best interest.