first electric car launch for major Korean brand in China

Global luxury automotive brand Genesis officially introduced its first electric car, the G80 (Electrified G80) to the global market at the 2021 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2021). It took place at the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Centre on April 19 (2021).

Genesis’ First EV Model

The Electrified G80 is Genesis’ first EV model, presenting a new standard for luxury electric sedans. It builds on the heritage of the G80 with its perfect balance of Athletic Elegance, while also offering customers much more value with its electric powertrain.

In addition to debuting the Electrified G80, Genesis presented the Genesis X Concept, an EV-based Gran Turismo (GT) concept car, to the Asian market for the first time, marking the beginning of a new journey towards electrification.

Jaehoon (Jay) Chang, Global Head of the Genesis brand said at the unveiling of both cars,”today is very special because it represents a variety of firsts for the Genesis brand. Not only because this is Genesis’ very first appearance at the Auto Shanghai, but it is also the first time we are unveiling a new product outside of Korea.The Electrified G80, the perfect balance of athleticism and elegance, marks the beginning of our journey into the EV market, representing Genesis in the era of electrification.”

Based on the NEDC standard, the estimated maximum range per charge is more than 500km. (Based on the Korean EV certification system, the estimated number is 427 km) while 350kW rapid charging enables the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes.

The Electrified G80 is available only as an AWD (All-Wheel Drive). It delivers powerful performance with 272kW and 700Nm torque, by applying motors with 136kW and 350Nm at maximum to the front and rear wheels. This allows for dynamic driving, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph just in 4.9 seconds. (sports mode- result from Genesis R&D Centre).

The Electrified G80 features a 400V/800V multi rapid charging system, allowing customers to use various charging infrastructures. Its driving motor and inverter can boost the level of voltage from 400V to 800V – a more optimized level for the system – for more stable charging. Customers can not only use the 800V rapid charging system without an additional converter, but a 400V charger as well.

The Disconnector Actuator System (DAS) can automatically connect or disconnect the motor and drive shaft based on various driving conditions, including vehicle speed and driving mode, enabling seamless switching between 2WD and AWD to reduce unnecessary power loss and increase efficiency.

The Electrified G80 also features various latest technologies that emphasize sustainability. The solar roof integrated in the roofline can generate electricity using sunlight with a solar panel that increases energy efficiency.

The vehicle also features various natural and recycled materials in its interior, including leather that utilizes natural dye in the seats, console and rear seat armrests. Other features include an eco-friendly ‘forged wood’ garnish for electric vehicles, made from recycled pieces of wood from the furniture manufacturing process, and an environmentally friendly fabric made from recycled PET.

Genesis X Concept’s Asian Premiere

Genesis also presented the Genesis X Concept at Auto Shanghai for the first time in Asia. The brand’s fifth concept car, unveiled online on March 31, 2021, epitomizes its new take on sustainable luxury car design and embodies the essential elements that it pursues in its designs. The name ‘Genesis X’ is a combination of Genesis and the letter X, which symbolizes a “hidden hero.”

Inspired by the Beauty of White Space, the Genesis X Concept’s interior features a driver-oriented design with a cockpit that surrounds the driver with all operating systems and displays. A high-tech atmosphere is created with the interior, with the free form display -managing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems-and, the crystal sphere electronic shift lever, which integrates driving mode settings.

A total of eight key models, including the Electrified G80, the Genesis X, two G80s, and four GV80s were exhibited at Auto Shanghai 2021.Markus Henne, Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Motor China stated “the world premiere of the first ever electric vehicle of Genesis here in Shanghai shows our strong dedication and commitment to the Chinese market.Genesis will strive to build authentic relationships with Chinese customers through a new China-tailored business model.”

Genesis was established in November 2015 and headquartered in South Korea. The brand is in overseas markets such as the US, Canada, Australia, Russia and the Middle East. Genesis has now launched Genesis G80 and Genesis GV80 in the Chinese market.

Pictures courtesy Genesis.