Genesis, the premium brand of Hyundai Motor Company, has gained significant popularity due to its exceptional product quality and rear-wheel drive, typically found only in German luxury vehicles. However, many have expressed disappointment over the lack of a hybrid powertrain, which affects fuel efficiency.

Starting in 2026, Genesis plans to launch hybrid models, enhancing efficiency. The company aims to equip the Genesis GV80 and G80 models with a 2.5-liter turbo hybrid powertrain, establishing a hybrid lineup.

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Genesis is accelerating the development of its first hybrid vehicles, the GV80 and GV80 Coupe Hybrid, targeting a launch in the third quarter of 2026. The company currently primarily uses a 3.5-liter turbocharged engine with a 48V electric supercharger.

The 3.5-liter turbocharged engine with a 48V electric supercharger combines a six-cylinder turbo engine with a mild hybrid system and an electric supercharger, enhancing performance, responsiveness, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

The 3.5-liter turbo supercharger delivers a maximum output of 415 horsepower and a peak torque of 56.0 kgf.m, providing impressive acceleration. With four times the voltage of a conventional 12V system, it easily drives high-speed electric superchargers and starter motors, improving fuel efficiency and reducing engine load.

The existing GV80 SUV achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 8.6 km/L, while the G80 sedan records 9 km/L. In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid boasts a combined efficiency of 14.4 km/L, and the Grandeur Hybrid reaches 15.7 km/L. The fuel efficiency of the Genesis GV80 and G80 remains notably low.

Genesis is considering the application of a rear-wheel drive-based hybrid system for its next-generation vehicles. This system will feature an electric motor added to the rear drive axle of front-wheel drive hybrid cars.

The performance of the e-VMC, which independently controls the torque of the front and rear motors, has also improved. Genesis plans to integrate a rear main drive motor and apply e-AWD, which will likely include an electric motor for front-wheel assistance.

Analysts predict that the Genesis GV80 and G80 hybrid models will launch in 2026. If the new next-generation hybrid system unveiled by Hyundai Motor Group is implemented, it will likely achieve both high efficiency and high performance.

The GV80 Hybrid will feature a 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, optimized for fuel consumption through direct connection with a P1 motor, while a P2 motor will assist driving power to enhance efficiency and performance.

The standard fuel efficiency with 19-inch wheels is approximately 13.5 km/L, allowing for a maximum range of 1,080 km with an 80-liter fuel tank. The GV80 Coupe Hybrid, equipped with 20-inch wheels, is expected to have a fuel efficiency of 11.9 km/L and a reduced driving range of about 952 km.

The existing 2.5-liter turbo engine generates a maximum output of 304 horsepower and peak torque of 43.0 kg.m. However, with the hybrid system, the output is expected to increase by approximately 19% to 362 horsepower, while torque will rise to 46.9 kg.m, improving acceleration and driving safety.

The hybrid model will include features like a stay mode that operates the air conditioning and media system without running the engine, and a V2L function that supplies up to 3.6 kW of power to external electronic devices. The GV80 Hybrid and Coupe Hybrid are set to launch in the third quarter of 2026.

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