Genesis GV60 debut and, fortunately, looks are not all

Genesis GV60 debut and, fortunately, looks are not all

Genesis, Hyundai's luxury division, has released new images of its first electric vehicle.

The Genesis GV60 is a crossover SUV that looks like a mix between a Tesla Model X and a Pontiac Aztek. It is the first vehicle to use Genesis' new EV-specific platform, the E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform). Unfortunately, Genesis did not reveal any details about the car in its press release, including specs, range, price, or features.

Genesis describes the GV60 as having a "dynamic, sleek appearance" with quad lamps that "add character to the sleek, voluminous body." These are very generous ways to describe the car, but we can't help but notice the bug-eyed front fascia and the grumpy, bearded, emoji-like grille.

According to Genesis, the large, wide grille is "to emphasize the vehicle's dynamic performance and to enhance the cooling efficiency of the underbody-mounted high-voltage batteries."

The GV60's wheels, however, look cool. Lots of angles and branches have been added to the standard five-spoke design. The side mirrors also appear to be on the thin side. This is because they are not side mirrors, but cameras. The doors have two screens, which usually reflect what the side mirrors see. Genesis probably took this step to reduce the aerodynamic drag caused by the conventional side mirrors.

Genesis took a cue from Jaguar in its door handles. The flush oval shape is related to the recent generation of Jaguars, but it is unclear if it functions like a push-pull lever or if it sputters automatically like the Tesla Model 3.

Like other crossover SUVs that aim for a sporty, coupe-like appearance, the GV60's roofline is aggressively sloped. While this is supposed to reduce aerodynamic drag, it may also hinder headroom for taller rear seat passengers.

Regardless of how strange the outside of the car looks, the inside is where things get significantly more luxurious.

The blue leather (which is supposed to be vegan) gives the car an upscale look. The blue is complemented by silver buttons and dark brown trim. And the center console is adorned with a symbol Genesis calls the Crystal Sphere.

"The crystal sphere is one of the GV60's most attractive design elements," the automaker said in its promotional materials. 'When the vehicle is turned off, the crystal sphere provides ambient illumination and enhances the aesthetics of the driving experience.' When ready to drive, the sphere rotates to reveal the SBW, creating the interior ambiance of futuristic mobility."

The sphere is also used in the vehicle's interior to provide a "futuristic" interior ambiance.

And like the Tesla Model S, Genesis integrates a large touchscreen along the dashboard, reducing the need for buttons. It is not a giant tablet as seen on the Tesla, but rather more akin to the interface seen on the new Mercedes models.

Genesis says that more details and specs will be revealed in the coming months. At this time, Genesis is aiming for a 2022 launch.

Categories