Hyundai Genesis to mass produce its first hybrid model in 2026

GV70. [Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group]

Hyundai Motor Co. plans to unveil the first hybrid car under the premium Genesis brand in 2026.

According to industry sources on Thursday, Hyundai Motor has initiated a project called JKa, which involves the development of a hybrid version of the GV70, a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV), for the North American market.

The hybrid model is expected to be mass-produced in December 2026.

The GV70 will be Hyundai Motor’s first model to employ what is known as an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) system.

EREV is a type of EV that combines the characteristics of both battery EVs and plug-in EVs. It mainly uses an electric motor but also adds an auxiliary gasoline or other power unit called a range extender, which increases their driving range.

Most range extenders are small internal combustion engines that drive an electric generator, furnishing the electric batteries and motor with electricity.

The range extender charges the battery to extend the range in case the battery is out of charge, which explains why EREVs are classified as hybrids because they generate emissions.

Hyundai Motor’s decision to add a hybrid model to Genesis reflects part of the automaker‘s response to the fast-changing automobile market, where hybrids are gaining increased focus.

The approach also helps reduce production costs and minimize process changes as it allows the automaker to keep the current structure of the electric GV70 and add a smaller engine.

The hybrid GV70 will be manufactured at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Georgia, United States.