Update (July 22, 2024): ‘On the Genesis GV80 Hybrid’ section revised.
South Korean publication ETNews, in an exclusive story published on May 21, 2024, had reported that the next-gen Genesis GV80 will be an electric vehicle. In a follow-up piece on June 6, 2024, ETNews had learned that the launch has been delayed to 2028, with the first-gen GV80 set to gain a Hybrid variant.
We’ve discussed the all-electric model in the first part of the story, before moving on to explore the Genesis GV80 Hybrid.
Production
According to information shared by Hyundai Motor Group with its major part vendors, the Genesis GV90 (project code: JG) is locked as the first electric vehicle to be built on the eM platform. The eM was announced in 2022 and is an evolution of the E-GMP that underpins the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.
Following the GV90, Hyundai plans to release the second-generation Genesis GV80 EV (project code: JX2) as its second electric vehicle based on the eM platform. This new GV80, which will be an electric version of the well-established nameplate, is now programed for mass production in late 2027, or early 2028.
Conservative targets
The production targets for the two EVs have been set conservatively. The domestic production target for the GV90 ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 units per year, while the second-generation GV80 EV is set at 30,000 units. Given that global sales of the GV80 reached 56,469 units last year, these targets reflect cautious optimism, ETNews noted in its initial report.
Expected Features
Genesis should make the interior of the next-gen GV80 eco-friendly with materials like bioplastic, recycled plastic, recycled yarn, bio polyurethane, and recycled PET fabric and carpet.
The 2026 GV80 should feature Face Connect, a face recognition system for keyless entry, and a fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. It will adjust settings based on the driver. We expect it to offer hands-free parking with updated Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 and future RSPA 3. A Level 3 Remote Parking Pilot is also in development, for which the new GV80 is a candidate.
Genesis may offer the next-gen GV80 with swivel-type seats in the second row, providing reclining, massage, and entertainment functions. A pop-up display is being developed for eM models, emerging from the dashboard when the driver is seated.
Specifications
ETNews has not reported powertrain details, but our expectations is that the next-gen GV80 will be planned in RWD and AWD versions. It should support both 800V ultra-fast and 400V fast-charging, with a capacity of 250-350 kW, charging from 5 to 80% in under 25 minutes. V2L technology in the new GV80 should allow it to power external devices and other EVs with up to 3.6 kW, useful for families on camping trips.
According to previous South Korean reports, the company is developing a 113.2 kWh battery pack, which we believe would provide a vehicle of the GV80’s size with a satisfactory range (around 300 miles EPA-est.) and performance. Even the base configuration should have over 300 hp on tap, with the top-end version likely to be a high-performance vehicle developed by Genesis Magma.
Price & Competitors
While official confirmation is awaited, the Genesis GV80 EV could be introduced for MY2028 in the United States. The all-electric GV80 could be priced at around USD 80,000 and compete with variants of the Volvo EX90, Audi Q8 e-tron, Jeep Wagoneer S, and the BMW iX.
On the Genesis GV80 Hybrid
As electric vehicle adoption in North America has been slower than anticipated, it would be wise for Genesis to have a Hybrid model that works alongside the all-electric SUV in this region. In fact, the global head of Genesis, Mike Song, has strongly hinted at a hybrid version of the GV80.
Speaking to reporters at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed (via Top Gear), he said, “We will have 100 per cent electrified vehicles, but the market and the customers now want hybrid more than EV, so we really want to bring Genesis hybrid into the market as soon as possible. We will apply it to as many models as possible.”
We’re expecting Genesis to give the current GV80 cosmetic updates when it receives the hybrid powertrain. While nothing is official, we expect the GV80 Hybrid to debut next year, featuring the new 2.5L hybrid system with a 6-speed transmission, and go on sale globally by 2026. The new-generation Hybrid system is being developed for Hyundai Motor Group vehicles in the mid-size and large vehicle segments, and will debut in the new Hyundai Palisade next year.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
