2017 New York Motor Show: Hyundai GV80 hydrogen fuel cell concept revealed

HYUNDAI'S soon-to-launch luxury brand has flagged its intention to lead the way on hydrogen fuel cell technology in the luxury market with the GV80 concept revealed at the 2017 New York Motor Show.

Combining electric motors and a rechargeable battery pack with a hydrogen fuel cell system, the GV80 ushers in a sleek new styling theme wrapped in a large SUV body.

But it’s the design of the GV80 that is most relevant to the future of the yet-to-launch luxury spin-off from Hyundai.

Styled under the guidance of recently appointed Genesis design chief Luc Donckerwolke, the concept sets the future design theme for the Genesis family that will start arriving in Australia late in 2017.

Clean lines and a Volvo SUV-esque shape team 23-inch wheels and a distinctive five-point grille taking up most of the front fascia to create a very different look to the Genesis G70 concept revealed a year ago.

“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 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.”

Genesis brand chief Manfred Fitzgerald described the GV80 as an important step in creating Genesis.

“This concept is an important milestone for the brand to share our vision of the future, introducing a further expansion of our product portfolio.”

Inside continues the bold design, with a 22-inch vibrant OLED screen dominating the sweeping dash, which blends classic dials and gauges with modern touches.

It’s under the bonnet where some of the most interesting technology resides.

Genesis has teamed a hydrogen fuel cell with batteries to create a fuel cell plug-in.

It allows recharging of the batteries at home and electric-only propulsion for short journeys before the fuel cell is used to create electricity for longer drives.

A brief press release stated the technology was employed to “fulfil the needs and explore the escapes of the urban adventurer”.

“Genesis will continue to study the benefits of similar alternative propulsion systems and eco-friendly technologies for future product applications,” it said.

Genesis as a brand – rather than a single Hyundai-badged model – will launch in Australia late this year to take on the established luxury players, from Lexus to Mercedes-Benz.

The updated version of the Hyundai Genesis will be known as the G80.

There will also be a smaller G70, which will utilise the twin-turbocharged V6 engine and rear-drive platform of the Kia Stinger.