The Genesis line-up is growing fast, with a heavy emphasis on all-electric models. The South Korean carmaker’s latest entry is the Electrified GV70 SUV making its debut at Auto Guangzhou 2021.
The battery-powered crossover is set to join the Electrified G80 sedan, as well as the GV60 crossover, with still more all-electric models in the works. The twin-motor Electrified GV70 will have a range of up to 310 miles — at least in Korean specifications — and launch from 0-62 in 4.5 seconds, the automaker announced at the Guangzhou show.
“Our global vision to create a sustainable future through electrification is a natural extension of our original commitment that dates back to the launch of Genesis in 2015: the commitment to creating a positive impact in our customers’ lives,” said Jay Chang, Global head of the Genesis Brand. “I am pleased to reveal another new EV model in China that celebrates our audacious step toward a sustainable future.”
A two-pronged approach
Both of the “Electrified” Genesis models are heavily modified versions of the conventionally powered G80 sedan and GV70 crossover. The GV60 rides atop an all-new, skateboard-style platform, dubbed E-GMP, which will be shared with other members of the Hyundai Motor Group. It underpins both the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6.
The Electrified GV70 hews close to the existing crossover’s design, retaining the twin-line Quad Lamps, for example. But there are subtle differences. That starts with a more three-dimensional version of the Genesis Crest Grille that is largely sealed off for improved aerodynamics.
Other wind-cheating features include the new wheel designs and other, more subtle tweaks to the exterior. At the rear, a simplified, tailpipe-free skid plate “emphasizes the SUV’s electric nature,” said Genesis in a statement.
The Electrified GV70’s cabin retains the standard model’s open design, as well as the widescreen infotainment display that rises above the center stack. The interior is finished with what the brand refers to as “a variety of eco-friendly materials.”
Tech-focused interior
There’s even more of an emphasis on technology with the Electrified model. Its infotainment system is updated so, among other things, motorists can plot out routes that include charging points. The battery-electric GV70 gets a new Preview Electronic Control Suspension that uses a camera and navigation data to adjust damping depending upon road conditions. While BEVs generate essentially no engine noise, a new active control system helps offset road noise.
The drivetrain of the Electrified GV70 mounts motors on both front and rear axle. It’s powered by a dual-motor setup bringing 482 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque and, with a dedicated “Boost Mode” will sprint to 60 in just 4.5 seconds, according to Genesis.
Range is rated at 310 miles — and it should be able to go from a 10% state-of-charge to 80% in just 18 minutes when using the latest, 350-kilowatt public chargers. To help extend range, the system is capable of completely disconnecting each motor and driveshaft, when power demands are light. Frictional losses are reduced when operating in two-wheel-drive mode.
U.S. details to follow
One of the unusual features of the electric drive system the Hyundai Motor Group has developed is its ability to operate at both 400 and 800 volts, the latter permitting quicker charging, among other benefits.
The Electrified GV70 features Vehicle-to-Load capabilities. That means a motorist can tap into its battery to provide power to a home, for example, in the event of a blackout. Or it can be used at a remote location to power up lights, tools or appliances. The automaker stressed that all these figures are for the Korean version of the Electrified GV70, noting, “More information on North American market specifications and deliveries will be available at a later date.”
