Genesis Debuts Electrified GV70 Crossover

At+the+Auto+Guangzhou+2021+show+in+China+last+week%2C+Genesis+unveiled+an+electrified+version+of+the+GV70+SUV+featuring+a+robust+electric+powertrain+in+place+of+its+gas-powered+engine.+%28Genesis%29

At the Auto Guangzhou 2021 show in China last week, Genesis unveiled an electrified version of the GV70 SUV featuring a robust electric powertrain in place of its gas-powered engine. (Genesis)

By Jessica Shea Choksey

The Genesis brand recently unveiled the Electrified GV70 luxury compact crossover, the battery-powered version of the same nameplate, at ‘Auto Guangzhou 2021’ in China. Like so many other automakers from Audi to Volvo, Genesis has vowed to transition its model lineup to electric-only by the end of the decade. The automaker has also pledged not to introduce any new internal combustion engine (ICE) models after 2025.

“Our global vision to create a sustainable future through electrification is a natural extension of our original commitment that dates back to the launch of Genesis in 2015: the commitment to creating a positive impact in our customers’ lives,” said Jay Chang, global head of the Genesis brand. “I am pleased to reveal another new EV model in China that celebrates our audacious step toward a sustainable future.”

Although American specs are still to be confirmed, the Electrified GV70 for the Chinese market has a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with motors at the front and rear axles, each yielding 214 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Total peak output in Boost Mode will be 483 hp and 516 pound-feet, allowing the crossover to get from zero to 60 mph in a claimed 4.5 seconds. That’s faster than its gas-powered counterpart. Adding to its AWD prowess, the Electrified GV70 will be the first Genesis SUV to receive a dedicated e-Terrain mode for extra traction while driving off-road.

The official range of the Electrified GV70 is yet to be confirmed. However, the all-electric crossover has traveled a distance of up to 310 miles per charge under Chinese testing. Furthermore, it will be capable of 350-kW fast charging, allowing its battery to “power up” from 10 percent to 80 percent in under 20 minutes.

Applying a 400V/800V multi-rapid charging system, Genesis will allow owners the flexibility and convenience of using various forms of charging infrastructure. This powerful charging system will enable fast and stable charging by raising the voltage supplied by typical chargers from 400 volts to 800 volts. Customers will be able to utilize charging infrastructure at either level without needing an additional converter.

The Electrified GV70 will also offer Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability, enabling it to send power back out to large electronics, appliances, and tools. The system supports a 3.6-kW charge, which is higher than the power supply in the average home.

In addition, the new model features the Smart Regenerative Braking System 2.0. This technology regenerates energy based on driving habits, real-time navigation, and road conditions. Further enhancing the driving experience, the Electrified GV70’s i-Pedal allows the driver to speed up, slow down, and stop altogether using just the accelerator pedal.

Genesis has not confirmed whether the Electrified GV70 will be available in the United States. However, with the American auto industry’s priority on EVs, particularly electric SUVs, it will likely arrive stateside in the foreseeable future. Genesis builds the ICE-powered GV70 in Alabama.