Key Points:
- Hyundai Genesis brand plans to introduce hybrid cars in 2025 for consumers who are hesitant about all-electric options.
- The first Genesis hybrid variant will feature a robust 2.5-liter engine, catering to popular models like the G80 sedan and GV70 SUV.
- Genesis dealerships in the United States express interest in plug-in Genesis hybrids, awaiting Hyundai’s decision.
Hyundai Motor Co. is set to introduce hybrid cars under its premium brand, Genesis, next year, targeting drivers hesitant to switch to all-electric vehicles amidst the challenges faced by the electric vehicle (EV) market. This strategic move comes as Hyundai Motor Group, which includes Kia Corp., initiated the development of hybrid car engines and systems for Hyundai Genesis models at the end of the previous year.
The first Hyundai Genesis hybrid variant is anticipated to be unveiled in 2025. It features a robust 2.5-liter engine, larger than the 1.6-liter engine found in Kia’s Carnival van hybrid. The hybrid engines are expected to be integrated into popular Genesis models such as the G80 sedan and the GV70 SUV, providing an alternative for consumers with reservations about fully electric options.
While Genesis dealerships in the United States have expressed interest in plug-in Genesis hybrids, Hyundai has yet to decide on developing plug-in hybrid models under the Genesis brand, which batteries like their all-electric counterparts would power.
This strategic shift comes after Hyundai initially planned to transition all Genesis vehicles to electric vehicles by 2025. However, in response to the cooling EV market in the latter half of the previous year, Hyundai adjusted its strategy, aligning with a trend observed among global automakers like General Motors, Ford, Stellantis, and Volkswagen.
Hyundai Genesis brand currently includes G70, G80, and G90 sedans and GV60, GV70, and GV80 sports utility vehicles. In addition to the upcoming Genesis hybrid, Hyundai and Kia plan to introduce hybrid variants for flagship models such as the Palisade SUV, the revamped Santa Fe SUV, and the Staria minivan this year. Kia is also gearing up to launch a hybrid variant of the third-generation Seltos compact SUV in the coming year.
Hybrid cars have proven to be a key player in the global car market, comprising 10.6% of Hyundai’s global sales in the fourth quarter of the previous year, with an increase of 7.1% from the same period in the previous year. In comparison, the proportion of EVs dropped to 5.3%, down from 5.7% a year earlier.
The shift towards hybrid offerings aligns with the industry’s recognition of hybrids’ role in meeting consumer preferences and bridging the transition to a fully electric future.
