Car manufacturers are scrambling to churn out electric SUVs – here's the Genesis entrant
By Matt Bird / Thursday, September 30, 2021 / Loading comments
The Genesis models released to the UK so far have been fine, if a tad predictable. There’s the small saloon and small SUV, then the big saloon and big SUV. Now, however, we get to see a more innovative and original Genesis come to the fore: behold the battery-powered GV60.
The first car built on Genesis’ dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform, the GV60 will enter what’s looking like an even more lucrative sector – the compact electric SUV coupe – soon. It’ll launch in Europe as an entry-level, rear-wheel drive model, with two AWD variants above it. All will be powered by a 77.4kWh battery, with up to 435hp in the Performance Model and a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.0 seconds. The flagship even gets a Drift Mode, too, and all three include a choice of driving sounds: ‘Futuristic’, ‘G-Engine’ and ‘E-Motor’. Range estimates vary from 368km (228 miles) to 451km (280), the latter figure provided by the rear-wheel drive model. The ability to accept up to 350kW of charge means the GV60, in theory, could be juiced from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 18 minutes.
As the first electric Genesis, we can expect many of this car’s styling features to appear in upcoming cars. So although the Two Line lights seen elsewhere in the range are familiar, the GV60 gets a new badge and grille, digital side mirrors and a single panel clamshell bonnet. The platform has allowed for a long wheelbase relative to vehicle length, with short overhangs and the wheels pushed out. Genesis’ claims of “anti-conformist style” seem a bit far-fetched when everyone is making electric SUVs – sorry, crossover utility vehicles – but the GV60 is at least attention grabbing, especially in the new Sao Paulo Lime. And that will count for a lot.
Though much is made of the interior, Genesis hasn’t yet released many detailed images. But we’re told to expect something spacious, comfortable and unique, with a next-generation infotainment system – connected car Integrated Cockpit – linking driver display with the central screen. Lots of bits are made from recycled and eco-friendly materials, too, of course. And a Crystal Sphere drive selector, believe it or not. Buyers will be offered five colour schemes: Obsidian Black, Torrent Navy, Ash Gray/Glacier White, Monstera Green/Camel Beige and Monstera Green/Glassier White. Like the exterior paints – with Hanauma Mint and Atacama Copper offered alongside the Lime – the GV60 can certainly be eye catching if required.
Speaking of eye catching, the GV60 will also feature something called Face Connect, which is not a new John Travolta and Nicholas Cage film but a technology that will allow buyers to unlock their car without a key. Using a Near Infra-Red camera on the B-pillar, drivers only need look at it while holding the door handle to gain access. Genesis says it works “under virtually any circumstances”. Face Connect then recognises the driver inside and adjusts the car to their saved settings, which sounds as spooky as it does convenient.
“The GV60 is our first dedicated electric car with the most dynamic design, representing Genesis’ electrification. It will set a new standard for luxury electric cars with a powerful driving performance and key features which are emotionally connected to customers,” said Jay Chang, Global Head of Genesis brand. Given how lucrative the sector seems to be (and will surely only continue being), Genesis could really be onto something if the GV60 delivers. Expect it in the UK next year.
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