Let there be luxury
INNOVATIVE DESIGN PACKS PLENTY OF BELLS AND WHISTLES, INCLUDING ADVANCED BIOMETRICS
The GV60 is the first Genesis vehicle built on the Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP (Electric-global Modular Platform) dedicated to electric vehicles, joining the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the Kia EV6.
At a global level, three GV60 models will be offered: a standard rear-wheel-drive model, a standard all-wheeldrive model, and a performance all-wheel-drive model. Canada-specific details are not yet available, and whether Genesis will opt to offer rear-wheel drive to meet pricing requirements for the federal rebate program or will skip it for luxury appearances is yet to be announced.
Converted from the figures released at the Korean launch, the RWD model is equipped with a single motor mounted to the rear axle with a maximum output of 168 kw (225 horsepower) and maximum torque of 350 Nm (258 pound-feet). According to Korean testing cycles, the 77.4-kwh battery is capable of giving the rear-wheel-drive model a 451-kilometre range. Canadian range estimates will vary, and have not yet been provided.
On the standard AWD model, a 160-kw (214-hp) motor drives the rear wheels, and a 74-kw (99-hp) motor powers the front wheels, providing a total output of 234 kw (313 hp) and a maximum torque of 605 Nm (446 lb-ft). This model has an estimated range of 400 km.
The performance model achieves AWD through two 160-kw (214-hp) motors, one on each of the front and rear axles. This combination has a total output of 320 kw (429 hp), the same peak torque of 605 Nm (446 lb-ft), and an estimated driving range of 368 km. A Boost Mode increases the output of the 160-kw motor to 180 kw for 10 seconds, which can push the GV60 from zero to 100 km/h in four seconds.
Along with this, the engineers have tucked in a notso-secret Drift Mode. From a stop, the driver can hit the brake, change into sport mode, change the electronic stability control mode, then hold both shifter paddles in for three seconds. Once Drift Mode is engaged, the GV60 is said to be released of its mild mannerisms and made significantly easier to break into oversteer.
The GV60 will accept 350kw DC fast-charging and will charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 18 minutes. Level 2 charging speed is also faster than average, thanks to an increase in capacity from 7.2 to 11 kw, and it will be equipped to power external devices at a rate of 3.6 kw.
Handling is managed through a Macpherson strut front suspension and fivemulti-link rear, an electronic limited-slip differential, and an electronic suspension control system that uses forward camera and navigation data to adjust automatically to upcoming road conditions.
Perhaps the most forward-thinking innovation on the GV60 is the Genesis Crystal Sphere. This part-fashion, part-function feature starts as a backlit and die-cut crystal highlight on the centre console until the driver starts the vehicle, at which point it flips over to reveal a rotating gear selector. It’s showy and futuristic, but Genesis says it’s also a safety feature, meant to indicate whether the vehicle is on or off, since there’s no engine noise or tachometer to provide other hints.
In addition to the fingerprint-recognition technology already on the Genesis GV70, the GV60 will ship with a new facial recognition technology called Faceconnect. A camera in the B-pillar scans the facial features of an approaching human and grants access to those with permission to enter. Between that, a smartphone, and fingerprints, it will be possible to start the GV60 without ever needing to carry a key fob.
The GV60 will be capable of receiving over-the-air updates, not only to the infotainment system but also to other electronically controlled vehicle systems.
Interestingly, the GV60 features a grille set wide and low on the front fascia. This is unusual on an EV, but Genesis representatives say it is positioned to make battery cooling more efficient.
The most distinctive exterior design feature is the DLO (Daylight Opening) chrome line, which starts at the top of the windshield and follows the tops of the windows around to the C-pillars, where it’s disrupted into a jagged edge meant to be reminiscent of lightning before tapering off at the sides of the rear spoiler. Eleven exterior colours will be offered, including four that are new to Genesis: lime green, mint green, copper, and copper matte.
The GV60 will launch in Korea later this year, with distribution in other markets to follow in 2022.