[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Genesis has unveiled the GV80 HEV, the brand’s first hybrid model, and will begin sales next month. It applies a next-generation 2.5 turbo hybrid system for the first time, aiming for EV-like driving feel and better fuel economy at the same time.

Genesis said on Aug. 13 it will launch the sport utility vehicle (SUV) GV80 with a 2.5 turbo hybrid system next month.

The GV80 HEV is the first hybrid vehicle Genesis has introduced and is equipped with Hyundai Motor Group’s next-generation 2.5 turbo hybrid system. The vehicle uses a parallel hybrid system, combining a starter-generator motor for engine start and power assistance with a drive motor that handles propulsion and regenerative braking.

Genesis explained that it has delivered a quieter and smoother ride than existing hybrids by widening the range of electric-motor intervention. At low speeds, EV mode is maintained up to about 30 kph, reducing engine noise and vibration in parking garages, city driving and congestion.

Once speed exceeds a certain level, the engine intervenes. Genesis stressed that this provides a driving experience close to an electric vehicle despite being a hybrid.

There are changes to the battery system as well. The GV80 HEV is the first among Hyundai Motor Group hybrids to apply a liquid-cooled battery. The aim is to manage battery temperature efficiently to improve energy efficiency and maximum discharge output.

Improved fuel economy is also a key feature. By Genesis internal test standards, fuel economy for the 2WD model improves by about 25 percent compared with the existing gasoline model. Genesis said the improvement could be larger depending on driving conditions.

Power performance is also higher than the existing GV80 2.5 turbo. Total system output is 347 horsepower and maximum torque is 390 lb-ft (about 529 Nm). Compared with the existing model, output rises about 16 percent and torque about 26 percent.

The time to accelerate from a standstill to 100 kph is about 7.1 seconds. The electric motor delivers torque immediately from launch, also providing the quick initial acceleration typical of a hybrid.

The GV80 HEV brings changes not only to the hybrid system but also to design. The exterior features a new crest grille design and dedicated wheels. The interior offers four new two-tone colour combinations, including Obsidian Black and Taiga Green, and Ultramarine Blue and Travertine Beige. Two new wood trims and a new quilting pattern are also applied to differentiate it from the existing GV80.

The GV80 HEV launch also aligns with a change in Genesis’ electrification strategy. Genesis initially pursued a shift to electrification centred on electric vehicles, but revised its strategy to delay the timing of its EV transition and expand hybrids and range-extended models together, considering the pace of EV market growth and consumer demand.

The GV80 HEV is Genesis’ first hybrid model introduced after that strategic shift. The strategy is to absorb electrification demand by targeting consumers looking for a hybrid between electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles.

Genesis is expected to expand application of the next-generation 2.5 turbo hybrid system starting with the GV80 HEV. Attention is focused on whether the GV80 HEV, launching next month, can help establish Genesis’ new hybrid strategy in the market.