Genesis, the illustrious luxury division of Hyundai, is gearing up to unveil an exhilarating lineup of hybrid vehicles, poised to forge its path in the competitive realm of the premium automotive market. This bold move not only paves the way for the introduction of innovative multi-fuel models but also breathes new life into beloved cars that have fallen victim to stringent emissions regulations. While details remain under wraps, EU brand director revealed that the company is steering clear of retrofitting traditional petrol engines into their dedicated electric vehicles currently built on the E-GMP platform – “which we have just the one in our line up,” he teased.
This insight effectively eliminates the GV60 from consideration, but it casts a spotlight on the freshly updated GV70 SUV and the luxurious G80 saloon as potential frontrunners in Genesis's electrifying new hybrid range. In a hushed announcement back in April, both Hyundai and Genesis presented scant details about an upcoming next-generation hybrid system. This exceptional system will feature a robust 2.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, with an additional one ingeniously integrated into the transmission. The manufacturers boast that this modern configuration can enhance efficiency by up to a staggering 45 percent while delivering a remarkable power boost of 19 percent compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains of a similar caliber.
Though there's no explicit confirmation that this innovative setup will be solely plug-in, Miller hinted tantalizingly that the Hyundai Motor Group is busy developing a range-extender (REx) configuration, which is rapidly gaining popularity in various Asian markets. Even Volkswagen hinted at plans to introduce REx models across Europe, potentially granting old ICE vehicles a chance to flourish amidst the new emissions standards that threaten their existence. Given Genesis’s strategic positioning and Miller's comments regarding the necessity for any new technology to enhance performance, the likelihood of incorporating a plug-in system appears high.
However, Miller provided an optimistic outlook, emphasizing that nothing is off the table; if Genesis has access to the technology within the wider Hyundai Group, the realm of possibilities remains vast. He elaborated that this new direction could indeed allow Genesis to resurrect models that once showcased petrol engines, hinting at the revival of vehicles like the GV80, and perhaps even the G70 and G70 Shooting Brake.
The hybrid-driven Genesis variants may hit the roads as early as this year, alongside the debut of the thrilling Magma series, which draws inspiration from Hyundai’s sporty N and Kia’s flagship GT models. Miller has described the Magma line as the “pinnacle of the range,” exclusively equipped with top-spec engines and luxurious features that Genesis is revered for. So, are you dreaming of having a Genesis gracing your driveway?
