Genesis is reportedly evaluating a small, luxury electric vehicle (EV) aimed at the European market.
Autocar reports this compact EV could be a production version of the Mint concept that was revealed at the 2019 New York motor show.
“We’re looking at expanding our model line-up, and especially in Europe a smaller model is being considered,” said Genesis head of product planning Mark Choi to Autocar.
“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.”
Mr Choi hinted to Autocar the latter of these factors could delay the launch of the small EV, which would slot underneath the GV60 in its current line-up.
There’s precedent at the young Korean luxury brand for a vehicle that’s been developed with Europe front of mind, with the G70 Shooting Brake aimed directly at that market.
A small electric luxury car would also give Genesis buyers an alternative to models like the Volvo C40 Recharge.
“The Mint concept is still being studied,” said Genesis design head SangYup Lee.
“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,” Mr Lee added.
The Genesis Mint concept is a two-seater with conventional front doors and strange twin reverse scissor rear doors. It has a coupe-like profile and large 22-inch wheels.
The company didn’t disclose many technical details about the concept, but said it has a range of 320km and can charge at rates of up to 350kW.
As previously reported, Genesis is now only going to have six models in its 2030 model line-up, which is two less than the previously stated eight.
All six of these models will be EVs, with the two hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) vehicles appearing to be scrapped.
The company now says it’s going to be an “all-electric car brand” by 2030.
MORE: Genesis reduces 2030 EV range, is hydrogen on the chopping block?
