Dead dinos: Hyundai’s Genesis to end combustion engines, EV-only after 2025

Hyundai’s luxury division Genesis has become the latest marque to sever ties with dirty combustion engines. Yesterday, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) Chairman announced its dual electrification strategy, covering both battery electric (BEV) and fuel cell electric (FCEV), and its plans to phase out combustion engines.

Starting from 2025, all new Genesis models launched will be electric. By 2030, there will be no more combustion engine Genesis models.

Hyundai’s electrification strategy however, is a bit different. Unlike Volkswagen, Hyundai is not convinced that putting all its bets on BEVs is a wise move, so it will hedge on both BEV and FCEV.

Chang Jaehoon (Jay), Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Vice President and Global Head of the Genesis Brand said, “Starting in 2025, all new vehicles to be launched will be pure electric vehicles (either BEVs or FCEVs). By 2030, Genesis will establish itself as a 100 percent zero emission vehicle brand that will reach sales of 400,000 cars.”

“The end goal is to pursue carbon neutral by 2035,” explained Chang, adding that Genesis’ two-pronged dual electrification strategy will tailor the right technology according to the unique styles, values, and preferences for different customers.

Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at HMG said there will be 8 new Genesis EV models by 2030.   

One of the models will feature rearward-opening ‘suicide’ doors (Genesis calls it Stage Doors), with no B-pillar for a truly elegant way of entering / exiting the car. A swiveling seat, and high fidelity audio system will make drivers and passengers feel like they’re sitting on stage with the orchestra.

“Our new electric lineup is the perfect platform to increase our interface with our customers,” said Donckerwolke. “We aim to interact with all their senses. Our new architecture will integrate audacious technologies with breathtaking designs while providing sincere detail-oriented experiences. Warm and exquisite care will be our differentiator.”

Currently, Genesis has only one pure electric model the Genesis GV60, which shares the same E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 5.

It doesn’t have a hydrogen-fueled fuel-cell electric vehicle yet but its sister company Hyundai has the Nexo as well as the XCient commercial truck.

Also read: From just a tiny workshop to overtaking Mercedes, this is Hyundai’s story of grit

Genesis is currently only sold in Korea, USA, Canada, China, Germany, Switzerland, UK, Russia, Middle East and Australia.

There are talks about re-launching the brand in Malaysia, but it looks like a long shot, considering that Hyundai has yet to establish a firm footing here.

Also read: Genesis mulls return to Malaysia