First look at the car that might bring Hyundai’s premium marque back to New Zealand.

UNWRAPPED at last – it’s the GV60, the first electric vehicle based on a dedicated battery-pure platform to come from Genesis and, quite potentially, the model that returns Hyundai’s luxury marque to New Zealand.

The five-chair medium model is, of course, based on Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the same underpinning used by the Hyundai Ioniq V that releases in New Zealand next month and Kia’s EV6, a 2022 arrival.

Genesis says the car shown to the world today is specifically in home market trim, so might differ in specification to the version being tailored for international use – however it’s hard to imagine there will be any change to overall design.

When might Kiwis see it? There’s been no comment from Hyundai New Zealand, which holds rights to distribution, however brand boss Andy Sinclair has already confirmed to MotoringNZ.com that an electric car will lead Genesis back into New Zealand.

On top of that, Genesis in Australia has said that electric product will next year join the fossil-fuelled cars it currently sells; three cars appear to be in that operation’s remit – but two are electrified versions of internal combustion-engined product.

Genesis has steered clear of talking about the car’s drivetrain; but realistically it’ll be similar to Ioniq V’s, though perhaps with additional pep and perhaps even better range.

Hyundai is set to sell five Ioniq V variants here, across three battery sizes/drive layouts – 58kWh rear-wheel drive, 72kWh rear-wheel drive and 72kWh all-wheel drive – and three trim grades: A base model across all three power options, a mid-spec 72kWh Elite rear-drive and a flagship 72kWh Limited all-wheel-drive.

The highest range Ioniq 5, with 481kms claimed from WLTP testing, is a rear-drive model that has the same specification as the entry $79,990 58kWh model but swaps out that car’s 125kW and 350Nm single motor for an uprated 160kW/350Nm unit paired to a larger 72kWh battery, for a $10,000 premium. The flagship Ioniq 5 is the $109,900 72kWh Limited AWD.

Conjecture that GV60 is a development of an outrageous concept, called Genesis Mint, that was revealed to the world in New York in 2019, has yet to be discussed by Genesis.

In explaining its naming convention, the maker says the ‘G’ in GV60 represents Genesis, while the “V” represents the vehicle’s versatility.

The number ‘60’ is the lowest in the Genesis line-up and comes as the brand evolves its model-naming scheme to fit what it describes as a unique design identity of ‘Athletic Elegance.’

Lower numbers will emphasise athleticism under the scheme, with elegance represented by higher numbers. Based on this system, the GV60 is Genesis’ most athletic model yet.

The GV60’s exterior design highlights its high-performance image along with a dynamic and smooth appearance. Genesis delivers its signature design experience to the GV60’s body, bringing the sleek silhouette drivers have come to expect from the brand.

The front of the GV60 features a design optimised exclusively for the electric vehicle. The iconic and progressive Two-Line Quad Lamps add character to a refined and voluminous body. A wider and more athletic Crest Grille has been placed below the Quad Lamps to emphasise the dynamic performance of the GV60 and also to increase the cooling efficiency of the high-voltage batteries in the underbody.

The GV60 will also see a new wing emblem applied to the grille, with thickness of the emblem reduced by nearly 80 percent from previous models. It features a Guilloche pattern often seen in luxury watches, representing a culmination of Genesis’ analogue sensitivities with high-tech innovations to create truly luxurious driving experiences.

In addition, Genesis has opted for a ‘Clamshell Hood’ for the first time, a single panel which combines the bonnet and fenders, creating a sleek impression for the EV model by removing lines between the parts.

When viewed from the side, the GV60 reveals the smooth and dynamic profile of a high-performance coupe. A simple yet sharp silhouette running from the front hood to the rear spoiler completes a more progressive character.

The chrome line flowing from the windshield to the top of the Daylight Opening (DLO) window extends to a C pillar-garnish design that embodies the image of ‘electric', adding a distinctive characteristic to the EV model.

Digital side mirrors add to a cutting-edge appearance, and are connected to the camera and monitor system. Meanwhile, an electric door handle enhances a strikingly futuristic image by automatically popping up when you approach the car.

At the rear, Two Line rear combination lamps take on a dynamic shape and flow seamlessly with the voluminous three-dimensional body. The rear also features a fixed rear wing spoiler to accent a coupe-shaped roof, adding to the image of dynamic high-performance.

Shoulder volume is emphasised in the rear fender to create a low and wide profile and further accentuate the image of high-performance by combining it with technical functions such as various sensors, taillights, and rear turn signals at the bottom.

The interior design of the GV60 takes on Genesis’ design ethos of the ‘Beauty of White Space,’ while seeking to create a spacious and comfortable interior. At the same time, it has embodied differentiated images with its floating architecture and unique details.

The most noticeable feature in GV60’s interior design is the Crystal Sphere, a sphere-shaped Shift By Wire (SBW) that intuitively informs drivers when the vehicle is ready to drive.

Genesis says the Crystal Sphere is one of the most compelling design elements of the GV60. When the vehicle is turned off, the Crystal Sphere becomes the vehicle’s mood lights, adding to the aesthetic of the driving experience. Says the brand: “When you are ready to drive, the sphere rotates and the SBW appears, creating an indoor atmosphere of futuristic mobility.”

It says the Crystal Sphere is not just a key element of the interior design, but also provides an emotional connection with the driver while indicating driving status.

The floating console, where the Crystal Sphere is located, looks as if it is hovering in the air, working with other unique features such as the slim cockpit and flat floor to provide passengers with a maximum level of openness.

The crash pad inside the GV60 is designed in a wide and slim shape to augment the pleasant interior, emphasising a high-tech atmosphere with a wide-screen integrated indicator (cclC, connected car Integrated Cockpit) that connects with the cluster and AVNT (audio, video, navigation, telecommunication).

GV60 is the second unveiling from Genesis in recent weeks, following the release of detail about the GV70 (below), a six-cylinder petrol medium sports utility.