Genesis GV80 Fuel Cell SUV Concept Hints At BMW X5 Rival

Following reports that Genesis was going to unveil an SUV concept during this year's NY Auto Show, the GV80 fuel cell concept is here to prove all those voices correct.

The GV80 Concept represents Genesis' first take on a versatile luxury SUV, displaying a confident posture on the road, while also boasting a spacious interior with immersive technology for passengers to enjoy.

In order to get you from A to B, the GV80 Concept uses the latest plug-in hydrogen fuel cell electric technology, with Genesis determined to continue studying the benefits of such an alternative propulsion system for future product applications.

"The GV80 Concept is a SUV that alludes to the confidence and evolution of the Genesis brand – its design is timeless, with an understated yet dynamic overall surface complexity," said head of Genesis Design, Luc Donckerwolke. "These are all characteristics that embody Genesis products and delicately reflect distinctive elements, which you’ll continue to see in future models from our brand."

"There is a unique energy and diverse global culture to New York that is fitting for Genesis, and we are excited to unveil the GV80 Concept here," added Genesis boss, Manfred Fitzgerald. "This concept is an important milestone for the brand to share our vision of the future, introducing a further expansion of our product portfolio."

In terms of aesthetics, the GV80 Concept is distinguished by its proportions, "finely balanced with dominant surfaces, exhibiting sophistication and functionality." In other words, it looks like a modern SUV, which is what Genesis wanted to convey.

The front of the car features the signature Genesis crest grille, which together with the wide-set horizontal quad headlights with jewel-like graphics help give the SUV a significant presence on the road. A careful look also reveals an aerodynamic front spoiler designed to channel air through precision facet cut-outs around the front wheels and side rocker panels.

The rear boasts slim quad lamps elongated towards the quarter panel. Their design is quite simple, though thanks to the laser fiber optic technology, they also produce a unique lighting signature for future Genesis owners to enjoy. Other exterior features include the profile's parabolic design line, muscular fenders, 23" mesh alloys and electronic door handles, resting underneath the crease line for enhanced aerodynamic performance and visual simplicity.

Moving on to the interior, the GV80 Concept is clearly looking to impress onlookers with its excellent craftsmanship, advanced technology and attention to detail. The cabin offers a bridge instrument panel and a wide 22" curved display cascading into the driver's cluster. Also interesting are the concept's side pillars. They're constructed with a structural truss design, viewable from both inside and outside the vehicle. According to Genesis, this should help "bring in the exterior environment, promoting a unique interaction with the outside landscape."

Going back to the horizontal 22" curved OLED infinity display, it's important to point out that it features two distinct zones for different driver and passenger experiences - orchestrated by the innovative Human Machine Interface and its new multi-function interactive controller with capacitive touch. On top of this controller you'll find a concave gorilla glass touch pad and knurled metal wheel with handwriting recognition.

Also, those polished linear metal inlays integrated into the wood lower center console have capacitive touch capabilities, and each one allows direct access to the most commonly used functions, such as Navigation, Entertainment, Communication and Environment. When the passenger taps these metal strings, he or she will gain separate control of a mini-view on the right side of the display, without disturbing the driver.

As for the craftsmanship of the cabin, Genesis decided to go with semi-aniline leather, with quilted diamond stitching on the interior door panels, seat inserts and center console side. There's also an interesting contrast between the leather on the upper instrument panel and the distinctive suede on the instrument panel bridge.

In the cargo area, the GV80 Concept features an elegant tonal and texture effect, mixing in suede with dark gray leather and slate ash wood, a mix that is both visually appealing as well as functional thanks to the contrasting sleek metal tie downs.

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