Genesis GV60 & GV70 EV: Premium Offensive Lands in France 2026
Genesis finally makes its French move. Spring 2026 will see the Korean premium brand deploy three all-electric models: the compact GV60 SUV, premium GV70 SUV, and G80 sedan. The Hyundai subsidiary aims for 25 dealerships by 2028 while developing a dedicated platform for future models starting in 2027.
"Genesis decided it had to meet the brand's driving dynamics requirements. Genesis needs its own platform for future models." — Peter Kronschnabl, CEO Genesis Motor Europe
Hyundai's premium division is finally stepping into France. After four years building presence in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK, Genesis is deploying its electric arsenal in the Hexagon. A calculated expansion backed by 1.5 million vehicles sold worldwide since 2015 and confirmed success in the US with 100,000 units delivered in 2025.
An Electric Trio to Challenge German Rivals
Genesis's French strategy rests on three electrified models. The GV60 measures 4.55 meters and directly targets the Audi Q4 e-tron and BMW iX2. More imposing, the Electrified GV70 extends its 4.72 meters against the Porsche Macan electric and Mercedes GLC EQ. The Electrified G80 sedan completes this lineup with its 5 meters of prestige.
On the performance front, the GV60 offers two power levels: 314 horsepower in base trim and 429 horsepower for the Performance variant. The latter integrates a Boost function that can temporarily raise output to higher levels.
27-Inch Display and 800-Volt Charging
The GV60 cabin features a 27-inch panoramic screen combining instrumentation and infotainment. This panel, already seen on the G80, brings a confident technological touch. Charging operates on 800-volt architecture, enabling ultra-fast sessions compatible with high-power chargers.
Design asserts strong identity through dual-tier headlights, a visual signature across the entire Genesis range. Drag coefficient reaches 0.27, the result of thorough aerodynamic work including flush door handles and a sloping roofline.
What's Genesis's French Rollout Strategy?
Genesis starts cautiously with two showrooms spring 2026: one in Paris, another in Lille. The stated objective: 25 sales points by end of 2028. Charles Fuster, Genesis France director, pilots this expansion from Paris headquarters, with logistical support from Hyundai France.
"Our European vision is clear: develop market presence market-by-market, following disciplined growth strategy," explains Peter Kronschnabl. This measured approach contrasts with the scattershot deployments of certain Chinese manufacturers.
A Dedicated Platform by 2027
Genesis is preparing the future with a new architecture. This platform, different from the E-GMP currently underpinning the GV60, will launch its first model in 2027. Compatible with both electric and hybrid powertrains, it must deliver "relatively direct steering" and a chassis that's "not too soft," in Kronschnabl's words.
This technical decision reflects a strategy shift. Genesis abandoned its 100% electric commitment to reintroduce hybrid versions starting 2026, responding to slowing premium EV demand in its core markets.
Starting at What Price?
French pricing hasn't been announced yet, but European references provide clues. In Switzerland, the GV60 starts around 70,000 francs (roughly 73,000 euros), positioning Genesis in the German reference bracket without overshooting on price.
European expansion continues in parallel with arrival in Italy early 2026 via two dealerships in Rome and Padua. France, Spain, and the Netherlands follow suit, bringing Genesis's European market count to seven.
Genesis is betting on Korean hospitality and the "Son-nim" concept (treating customers as honored guests) to differentiate from German standards. Whether this cultural approach can offset the historical advantage of European builders on their home turf remains to be seen.
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Written by
Jules DuboisSpecialist électrique, hybride, batterie, recharge, autonomie, technologies, electrique, nouveaute
Journaliste automobile passionné par la mobilité électrique et les nouvelles technologies. Après 10 ans dans la presse spécialisée, Jules décrypte ...
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