Genesis is working hard to expand its
lineup and electric vehicles are definitely on its agenda. While yesterday we
saw the first spy shots of the future standalone EV codenamed Genesis JW, we
can now show you a prototype of the G80 electric vehicle for the first time.
Spotted on the back roads surrounding the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the
battery-powered Genesis G80 looks like the regular model at first glance.
A closer look reveals some interesting
details, however, with the main one being the closed-off grille. This is a
strong clue we’re dealing with an EV, as is the complete lack of an exhaust system
at the back.
We can also see that the front and rear
bumpers have a different design than those of the ICE-powered Genesis G80.
Elsewhere, this test prototype looks like a normal variant of the luxury
midsize sedan, except for the roll cage fitted to the cabin. No, the G80 EV
won’t go racing, the roll cage is there to ensure the safety of Genesis’ test
driving during the high-speed laps on the Nordschleife.
Little is known about the all-electric
powertrain that will motivate the G80 EV – or the eG80 as some sources refer to
it. Reports from Korea claim the sedan will get a battery pack big enough to
enable a 500-km driving range. Additionally, the G80 EV is said to
feature Level 3 autonomous driving technology developed by Hyundai Motor Company
and Samsung Electronics. The Genesis G80 EV is expected to debut in 2021 as a
2022 model.
