Genesis has unveiled the GV60, the new Korean executive brand’s first model designed specifically as an electric vehicle (EV).
Genesis is effectively to Hyundai what Lexus is to Toyota, and the GV60 is built on the Hyundai Motor Group’s new electric vehicle platform also used by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.
The brand is only launching in the UK this summer with the G80 saloon and GV80 SUV, but has plans for a rapid move toward electrification and intends to launch three electric models within its first year. The GV60 will be the second, following an EV variant of the G80.
According to Dominique Boesch, Managing Director for Genesis Motor Europe, the GV60 will provide “a totally new experience”, Boesch describing the car as “a luxury electric vehicle based on our unique brand identity (that) will also benefit from our unique customer-focused offering where service comes before sales.”
No powertrain details for the Genesis GV60 have yet been revealed, but the Hyundai platform is designed to accept single and multi-motor formats and several variations in battery size. It will also allow ultra-rapid charging at 350kWh.
The Genesis GV60 is most likely to follow the specification of its Hyundai Ioniq 5 sister, which would mean rear-wheel-drive single-motor and all-wheel-drive two-motor variants and battery options giving a maximum range between charges in excess of 300 miles.
The car debuts the latest evolution of the Genesis design language dubbed ‘Athletic Elegance.’ The coupe-like exterior is designed to be sleek, employing video cameras instead of rear-view mirrors and pop-out flush door handles.
Distinctive features are the quad headlamps, split by a body line, and the first use by Genesis of a clamshell one-piece section incorporating the bonnet and front wings. A fixed rear spoiler emphasises the coupe shape.
The interior follows the clean theme with the centre console in a floating design. A signature element is the transmission control– this is in the form of a sphere that lights up when the car is not working to provide interior mood lighting.
Genesis is yet to reveal UK launch dates or pricing for the GV60 – industry sources suggest the car could appear before the end of 2022.
