The funny thing about long-term plans is that they’re often subject to change. Remember how, several years ago, Genesis announced that all models debuting in 2025 or later would be EVs? Well, now it seems that Genesis is also reportedly focusing on quickly turning out a range of hybrid models, and that’s something worth getting excited about.
As Global Head of Genesis Mike Song told Top Gear, “Electrification is still our vision. We will have 100 percent 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,” adding, “We will apply it to as many models as possible.”
While Genesis already offers a 48-volt mild hybrid system with an electric supercharger in its G90 flagship sedan and GV80 Coupe fastback SUV, such a system is designed primarily to facilitate the operation of power-hungry accessories, and barely puts a dent in fuel consumption. In contrast, a series-parallel hybrid system, like the ones available in most Toyota models, can drive the wheels on electric power alone and should offer significant fuel economy gains.
At the same time, hybrid powertrains hold promise for furthering traits we’ve come to expect from luxury vehicles. Using at least one electric motor to set off means that automatic stop-start systems can be smoother, turbo lag can be filled by electric assistance for smoother power delivery, and being able to glide for short distances on electric power alone should cut noise, vibration, and harshness. All good things for enhancing a luxury experience.
Plus, if the hybrid offerings from Genesis’ parent company Hyundai are of any indication, we should be expecting some seriously good products. Although the transverse platform underneath the Tucson and Santa Fe crossovers is completely different from what Genesis currently offers, the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is affably smooth, puts electric power through a traditional all-wheel-drive system for winter traction, and enables those family crossovers to get some seriously great fuel economy.
While there’s currently no timeline on when we can expect Genesis to launch its hybrid program, this is a brand known for moving quickly. Don’t be surprised to see the brand’s first series-parallel or plug-in hybrid model launch within the next few years, giving Lexus and BMW some serious competition in the hybrid luxury vehicle space.
(Photo credits: Genesis)
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