The Genesis GV90, Hyundai’s luxury brand’s eagerly awaited full-size electric SUV, faces a production delay, pushing its launch to June 2026, according to The Korea Economic Daily. Initially slated to roll off the line at Hyundai’s Ulsan plant in South Korea later this year, the flagship EV, previewed by the sleek Neolun concept, now leaves enthusiasts waiting as Genesis recalibrates its electrified future.

A Shift in Strategy

Genesis, known for carving a niche in the luxury market with bold designs and refined performance, aimed to challenge heavyweights like the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and the forthcoming Range Rover Electric with the GV90. The delay signals a strategic pivot for Hyundai Motor Group, which appears to be prioritizing hybrid models to boost sales in key markets like the U.S., where Genesis sold 69,897 vehicles in 2024, a 25% jump from the prior year. “Hyundai Motor is adjusting its product timeline to balance EV ambitions with market demand,” an industry source told The Korea Economic Daily. The company plans to launch hybrid versions of the G80 sedan, GV80 SUV, and GV80 Coupe in the interim, bridging the gap until the GV90’s debut.

Genesis Gv90 Electric Suv Delayed To 2026: Luxury Ev Ambitions On Hold

Technical and Design Highlights of the Genesis GV90

The GV90, expected to embody the Neolun concept’s minimalist aesthetic, promises cutting-edge features like coach doors, a panoramic glass roof, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, it could offer a range exceeding 300 miles (483 kilometers) and fast-charging capabilities, aligning with luxury EV benchmarks. However, the delay raises questions about whether Genesis is refining battery technology or addressing supply chain constraints to ensure the GV90 meets lofty expectations. The extra time could allow engineers to integrate next-generation solid-state batteries, potentially boosting range and efficiency, though no official confirmation has surfaced.

Implications for Owners and the Market

For EV enthusiasts and prospective buyers, the delay is a setback. The GV90 was poised to offer a compelling blend of luxury and sustainability at a starting price estimated around $80,000 (based on competitor pricing), appealing to eco-conscious professionals craving prestige. The wait may frustrate early adopters, especially as competitors like Rivian and Cadillac escalate their full-size EV offerings. Meanwhile, Genesis’s hybrid push could attract buyers hesitant about fully electric vehicles, particularly in regions with limited charging infrastructure. This move reflects broader industry trends, as automakers navigate uneven EV adoption rates amid economic uncertainties.

EVXL’s Take

Genesis’s decision to delay the GV90 feels like a cautious step, but it’s a gamble that could pay off. By polishing the GV90 into a true flagship, Genesis avoids rushing a half-baked contender into a cutthroat market. Think of it like slow-cooking a premium steak—rushing it risks a tough bite, but patience delivers perfection. For EV owners, the hybrid influx offers practical options without sacrificing luxury, a smart nod to drivers not yet ready to plug in fully. Still, Genesis must keep its foot on the accelerator to ensure the GV90 lands as a game-changer, not a latecomer, in the electrified luxury race.

Btw – How do you like the one we came across at the NY International Auto Show?