Genesis Mint to evolve into entry-level luxury EV
Korean brand Genesis is pushing ahead with plans for a stylish EV to sit beneath the GV60Genesis is planning to introduce an electric car inspired by the 2019 Genesis Mint concept that would line up against the incoming Tesla Model 2 and other entry-level premium small EVs.
The new EV could be on sale by 2026 and is designed to sit beneath the Genesis GV60, offering a strong Euro focus and compact dimensions to suit.
Confirming a new EV was under evaluation, head of Genesis product planning Mark Choi told British outlet Autocar: “We’re looking at expanding our model line-up, and especially in Europe a smaller model is being considered.
“But it’s not a simple case of adding new models; we need to factor in the growth of sales anticipated for our current cars, weigh that against our manufacturing capacity and then consider the rising cost of raw materials and understand how that affects the decision.”
Despite being small, the entry-model would be far from cheap, reflecting Genesis’ aspiration to be considered a true luxury brand.
Confirming the Mint could inspire the future entry-level model, Genesis design chief SangYup Lee said: “The Mint concept is still being studied. We want to understand what a small luxury car could be. When you live in a city, you don’t necessarily want a big car, so a small luxury vehicle is something to think about.
“There are premium small cars, but a luxury small car could be something new.”
Launched at the 2019 New York motor show, the Mint looked more like a modern take on a classic coupe than a traditional Euro supermini or city car.
The Mint had a light, airy and minimalist interior that paid tribute to a 1960s Ferrari, with acres of tan leather used from floor to ceiling.
Access to the luggage compartment was improved by a pair of rear dihedral doors.
Reflecting its urban role, the Mint used an undisclosed powertrain that allowed for a modest range of around 322km, although its battery could be topped rapidly at a rate of 350kW.
Related: NEW YORK MOTOR SHOW: Genesis Mint unwrapped
Related: More powerful 2023 Genesis G70 coming
Related: Genesis X Convertible gets green light for production
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