Genesis to Challenge Electric and Plug-in Hybrid BMW, Benz SUVs with New Range-Extender
Genesis is set to join the growing market of extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) with the launch of its GV70 EREV in December 2026. This move positions Genesis to compete directly with electric and plug-in hybrid SUVs from premium brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
The mid-size luxury SUV segment has become increasingly diverse, featuring hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric vehicles. Genesis’s entry into the EREV category adds another dimension to this competitive landscape. According to reports from Korean Car Blog, the GV70 EREV will utilize a modified version of Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, which currently underpins dedicated electric vehicles like the Genesis GV60 and Kia EV9.
EREV technology, popularized in China by brands such as Deepal and Leapmotor, is now being adopted by Genesis. EREVs typically feature a larger battery than traditional hybrids but smaller than those in full EVs. A petrol engine serves as a generator to recharge the battery when necessary, although the vehicle can still be charged like a plug-in hybrid or EV. Unlike PHEVs, EREVs have combustion engines that don’t directly drive the wheels, providing an “EV-like driving experience”.
Hyundai Motor Group’s upcoming EREVs, including an SUV for the Hyundai brand, are expected to offer a combined range of over 900km when fully charged. A previous report suggested that the GV70 EREV would use a 40kWh battery pack and provide more than 200km of electric range.
This development marks a shift in Genesis’s strategy. After initially planning to transition directly to pure electric vehicles by 2030, the brand has decided to expand its electrification options. Genesis global boss Mike Song explained that customer demand has driven this change: “Electrification is still our vision. We will have 100 per cent electrified vehicles, but the market and the customers now want hybrid more than EV, so we really want to bring Genesis hybrid into the market as soon as possible.”
In addition to the EREV, Genesis is introducing a traditional hybrid powertrain – a new turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder system – to models like the G80 and GV80. Genesis Australia has confirmed plans to offer hybrid models locally as soon as they’re available.
Globally, Genesis has not previously offered hybrids, PHEVs, or EREVs, but it currently offers a range of EVs, including the GV60, Electrified GV70, and Electrified G80. The upcoming GV70 EREV will face no direct competition in the Australian market, although it will compete with mid-size luxury PHEV SUVs like the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX.
The introduction of the GV70 EREV demonstrates Genesis’s commitment to diversifying its powertrain offerings in response to market demands. This strategic move is expected to enhance Genesis’s competitive position in the luxury SUV segment against rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
