Gas or Electric: The Motor Vehicle Debate
Genesis confirmed to Motor1 that the heralded GV80 Coupe Concept has been authorized for series fabrication. Showcased just recently at the 2023 New York Auto Show, the concept already appears to be geared towards production, in terms of design. Its styling is almost akin to its sister car, the spectacular X Speedium coupe concept.
“One look at the Genesis X Concept and it’s clear that this is no ordinary concept car. Absent are the usual trappings of a concept vehicle, like ultra-narrow side mirrors and massive wheels and tires. This immediately made us question its production chances, yet Genesis has made the bold statement that the X Concept “serves as a statement of intent for the future, hinting towards more emotional and performance-oriented models.” It appears Genesis wants to make a statement with the X Concept and that statement is that they are ready to enter the performance market.
The arrival of the GV80 Coupe is a possible event for 2025, and while it has not been confirmed yet, we anticipate that it will be available by then.
Speculation is rife as to whether the concept vehicle from Genesis will be powered entirely by electricity, or will contain an internal combustion engine. Genesis recently affirmed their commitment to transitioning to an exclusively all-electric lineup by 2030; nonetheless, certain features of the prototype appear to suggest the presence of an ICE powertrain. Specifically, the sizable cooling vents located along each side of the front end are historically indicative of an internal combustion engine. Nevertheless, details on the precise nature of the vehicle’s power source have yet to be disclosed.
Still, the Double G-Matrix Patterned Crest Grille might have a large component of plastic situated directly behind it – something we’ve already noticed in an abundance of electric cars. All the same, what truly grabbed our eyeballs is the backside. For what reason? Well turns out there’s an exhaust system even though its inclusion isn’t necessary in an all-electric vehicle. The habitually seen GV80 SUV, GV70, and the Electrified GV70 all possess the identical M3 platform which is competent of being utilized for both powertrain technologies.
The point that remains is that Genesis may pursue two different directions when it comes to the GV80 Coupe’s power source. Ideally, a preference would be expressed towards a combustion-engine with its productive turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This motor conveys 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of pull which is conveyed to all four corners via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
It would be ideal if Genesis engineers were able to extract some more power near or over the 400-horsepower mark. Just putting it out there, Genesis. Additional features that hopefully make it to the final production model consist of a carbon fiber roof, five-spoke forged aluminium rims, and a G-Matrix strut brace behind the back seats.
The GV80 Coupe Concept was definitely one of the greatest, yet unanticipated sensations amid the New York show. Assuming it is made correctly, its manufacturing variation will be something extraordinary; Genesis has done an outstanding job in its brief history of introducing first-class and highly aggressive vehicles. With any luck, we should soon get further knowledge about it.
