Electric Cars

A legendary 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S NART Spider, once owned by the iconic actor Steve McQueen, is slated for a high-profile auction, with an anticipated selling price ranging from $15 million to $20 million. This particular vehicle, chassis number 10453, holds significant historical value not only due to its rarity—being one of only ten NART Spiders ever produced—but also because of its colorful past with McQueen, who famously drove it aggressively, even after a notable accident on the Pacific Coast Highway.

The car’s journey to the auction block marks its first public sale in many years, adding to the allure for collectors. Gooding Christie's will present this unique Ferrari at its inaugural Rétromobile New York event, an extension of the prestigious European collector-car show. The vehicle retains its original matching-numbers engine, transaxle, and Scaglietti bodywork, alongside the distinctive modifications made by McQueen himself, including a darker metallic blue paint finish and custom seat upholstery. The auction will also feature two other exceptional Scaglietti-bodied Ferraris: a 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB, estimated between $2.25 million and $2.5 million, and a 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso, a model McQueen owned prior to the NART Spider, with an estimated value of $1.4 million to $1.6 million.

This exclusive NART Spider, finished in a rare Blu Sera, represents a unique confluence of automotive heritage and Hollywood legend. Its limited public appearances since leaving McQueen's ownership, including showings at the 1996 Louis Vuitton Classic and a 2003 Ferrari exhibition, underscore its elusive nature. The upcoming Rétromobile New York auction, scheduled for November 19-22, 2026, at the Javits Center, is poised to be a landmark event in the classic car market, with this remarkable Ferrari expected to be the star attraction.

The upcoming auction of Steve McQueen's Ferrari NART Spider embodies the enduring appeal of classic automobiles and the captivating stories intertwined with their past owners. It reminds us that some creations transcend mere functionality, becoming artifacts that carry history, passion, and a touch of the extraordinary. Such events highlight the importance of preserving these masterpieces for future generations to appreciate the craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural impact they represent.

Genesis has recently secured US design patents for its X Gran Coupe and X Gran Convertible, signaling a potential shift towards producing these luxury two-door models. These patents, granted in August 2026, protect the ornamental designs of both vehicles, rather than their mechanical or powertrain specifications. This development has fueled discussions among automotive enthusiasts and industry observers about Genesis's intentions to expand its lineup into the high-end grand tourer segment, a space where few competitors currently operate.

This move highlights Genesis's strategic focus on diversifying its offerings beyond the existing SUV and sedan models. The acquisition of these design patents suggests a deliberate step towards materializing the concept cars that have been showcased over the years. By patenting these distinct designs, Genesis aims to establish a unique presence in the luxury market, potentially challenging established brands with its innovative designs and premium positioning.

Genesis Design Patents: A Closer Look at the Aesthetic Protection

The United States Patent and Trademark Office recently issued design patents US D1,144,037 S for the Genesis X Gran Coupe and US D1,138,892 S for the X Gran Convertible. These intellectual property protections specifically cover the visual aesthetics and bodywork of these two-door vehicles, classifying them under the category for high-performance passenger automobiles. It is important to note that these patents focus solely on the exterior appearance, ensuring that no other manufacturer can replicate the distinctive styling of these Genesis concepts. The filings were made in July 2025, with priority claimed from earlier South Korean applications dated March 2025, indicating a well-orchestrated global strategy for safeguarding their design innovations.

While the patents do not disclose any details regarding powertrains or mechanical components, initial reports suggest that the designs incorporate elements indicative of combustion engines or high-performance hybrid systems, such as visible dual exhaust outlets. This strategic patenting of design elements, even without specifying the underlying technology, is a common practice in the automotive industry to protect brand identity and prevent unauthorized copying. However, it also means that the actual production specifications, including engine types and performance figures, remain under wraps. The dual exhaust outlets, for instance, might simply be aesthetic cues rather than definitive indicators of a specific powertrain choice. The systematic approach to patenting both the coupe and convertible variants simultaneously suggests that Genesis views these as a cohesive pair within its future product portfolio, reinforcing the brand's commitment to exploring new luxury segments.

Implications for Future Production and Market Positioning

The granting of these design patents, while not a direct confirmation of production, is a significant indicator of Genesis's ambition to bring these X Gran Coupe and Convertible models to market. Historically, Genesis has patented numerous concepts that did not reach production, but the current context, coupled with circulating price estimates between $120,000 and $160,000, suggests a more serious intent. This price range positions Genesis to fill a void in the luxury grand tourer segment, a space that has seen a decline in offerings from traditional luxury manufacturers like BMW and Lexus. By targeting this niche, Genesis could carve out a distinct competitive advantage, appealing to discerning buyers seeking an exclusive and high-performance two-door luxury vehicle.

The consistent push from Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke for a production grand tourer further reinforces the likelihood of these models moving beyond the concept phase. Although official timelines, manufacturing locations, or specific powertrain lineups have not been announced, the robust intellectual property protection demonstrates a commitment to these designs. This strategic move, following other notable developments such as the Genesis GV90, signifies the brand's clear intent to expand its premium vehicle range beyond conventional SUVs and sedans. If these models enter production, they could invigorate the luxury two-door market, offering fresh competition and innovative design in a segment hungry for new, compelling options.