Genesis, the luxury car brand owned by Hyundai, has confirmed its plans to develop hybrid technology for its range of vehicles. The company had initially focused on electric vehicles (EVs), but it has now realized that its target audience is more open to hybrid options. In an interview with Top Gear at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Genesis boss Mike Song stated, “We still have 100%-electrified vehicles, but the market and the customers now want hybrid more than EV.” This shift in strategy reflects the changing preferences and demands of consumers in the automotive market.
The goal of Genesis is to introduce hybrid models to the market as soon as possible. While it is not yet known which specific model will be the first to feature the hybrid system, Song mentioned that “as many models as possible” will be offered with a hybrid option. This demonstrates Genesis’s commitment to providing a wider range of choices for its customers. The company aims to cater to the increasing demand for hybrid vehicles while still maintaining its vision of electrification.
Although not officially confirmed, there are indications that the first hybrid Genesis could be powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Development work for the hybrid system reportedly began in 2023, and it is likely to be either a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup or a standard hybrid drivetrain. It remains uncertain whether Genesis will offer different hybrid systems in the future.
The expected timeline for the launch of Genesis’s first hybrid is around 2025, possibly as a 2026 model. This adjustment in plans suggests a departure from the company’s previous announcement to exclusively focus on electric cars from 2025 onwards. The decision to introduce hybrid models reflects the current market conditions and consumer preferences, which have prompted several carmakers to revise their initial plans to go fully electric. For instance, Cadillac recently admitted that it would continue selling gasoline-powered cars alongside EVs for a number of years, despite initially stating its intention to go fully electric by 2030.
Genesis’s decision to develop hybrid technology demonstrates the brand’s ability to adapt to market trends and meet the evolving demands of its customers. By offering hybrid options in addition to electric vehicles, Genesis aims to provide a comprehensive lineup that appeals to a wider range of consumers. This strategy aligns with the changing landscape of the automotive industry, where there is a growing demand for alternative powertrain options beyond pure electric vehicles.
