If you were holding out to buy an electric Genesis G80, you may have to wait a while longer.
就像Lexus did in the '90s, Genesis hit the luxury car scene as a little-known alternative to segment stalwarts and, already, has proven itself to be a worthy contender. Vehicles such as theG80sedan are both elegant to look at and sumptuous to sit in. You may have your doubts, but it's good enough to worry the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Set to bolster the already strong appeal is theElectrified G80. When it wasunveiled last year, Genesis said the electric newcomer would go on sale as a 2022 model and be unveiled in the spring. However, asAutomotive Newsreports, the battery-powered luxury sedan is now facing delays.
Speaking to the publication, the premium brand didn't share the reason behind the delay but has said we can expect pricing and on-sale information to be available towards the end of summer or the beginning of fall.
This has likely got everything to do with the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage. Genesis hasn't been immune to the crisis and has previouslyhad to cut driver assistsfrom several models as a result. Parent company Hyundai is similarly affected and has even looked into the possibility of using chips designed for household appliances in its cars.
Interestingly, Genesis has alreadyintroduced the GV60to the market. Designed to take the fight to Tesla's Model Y, the quirkily-styled crossover is the first of two electric SUVs expected from the automaker. The larger GV70 Electrified is expected to roll down a local production lineby the end of the year.
Genesis may be prioritizing the more popular crossover and SUV models because, as we all know, they are the true cash cows for any premium brand.
Still, that doesn't mean the electrified G80 should be overlooked when it eventually arrives. With an estimated 0 to 60 mph dash of 4.9 seconds, this silent sedan should prove quick enough for most consumers. This ample motivation comes courtesy of the dual electric motor setup, which provides 364 horsepower.
Figures indicate a maximum range of 310 miles and, while that sounds impressive, we must remember these are Korean estimates. It's very likely to arrive with a lower EPA-rated travel range. Still, at least buyers can charge the Electrified G80 from 10% - 80% in a mere 22 minutes when plugged into a 350 kW rapid charger.
When it and the electric GV70 arrive, Genesis will have a three-car-strong EV lineup which may give rivals a bit of a headache. This is only the beginning as the automaker plans to offer only electric vehicles by 2030 and sell 400,000 EVs per annum.
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