Hyundai lines up GV80 Hybrid, GV90 in launch push

Hyundai Motor Group is lining up a series of major vehicle launches in the fourth quarter as it seeks to revive sales momentum.

The group plans to maximize the impact of its new models by launching the Genesis GV80 Hybrid next month, followed by the all-new Hyundai Tucson and the Genesis GV90 flagship electric sport utility vehicle.

Industry sources said Tuesday that Genesis will launch the GV80 Hybrid on Oct. 6, while Hyundai Motor is targeting a mid-October release for the redesigned Tucson. It will be the first time the GV80 has been offered with a hybrid powertrain.

Starting with the GV80, Genesis plans to expand its hybrid lineup to include the G80 sedan and GV70 SUV, using electric vehicles and hybrids as the two pillars of its electrification strategy.

The GV80 is the luxury brand’s core SUV. Hyundai Motor Group expects its first hybrid version to capture rapidly growing demand for hybrids in South Korea while giving buyers of large luxury SUVs an alternative to conventional internal combustion engine models.

Hyundai Motor is also aiming to launch the all-new Tucson on Oct. 15. Releasing two of the group’s key models in October is expected to help lift vehicle sales toward the end of the year.

The recently unveiled GV90 is also nearing its market debut. Hyundai Motor Group plans to begin sales around November.

The GV90 is Genesis’ first top-tier large electric SUV and is designed to compete in the premium full-size electric SUV market.

The new-model push is expected to continue beyond November. Genesis plans to launch a facelifted G90 and the G80 Hybrid around December.

The updated G90 is intended to strengthen the competitiveness of the brand’s flagship sedan, while the addition of a hybrid powertrain to the G80 will broaden customer choice. If launched as scheduled, the G80 Hybrid will extend Genesis’ hybrid strategy from SUVs into sedans.

Genesis also plans to launch the GV70 Hybrid in March next year, adding a third hybrid model after the GV80 and G80.

“Hyundai Motor Group appears to be seeking stronger sales momentum by significantly expanding its hybrid lineup, where demand remains solid, while continuing its push into the electric vehicle market,” an auto industry official said.

“Specific launch and delivery dates, however, could change depending on production schedules, certification procedures and market conditions.”