A heavily modified test vehicle spotted near Hyundai Motor Group’s Namyang R&D Center is raising eyebrows—and expectations. According to a report from ShortsCar, the mule appears to be based on the Electrified GV70 but carries rugged enhancements that suggest something far more ambitious: a potential production version of the Genesis X Gran Equator Concept.
A New Chapter for Genesis: Luxury Meets Off-Road Capability
The sighted vehicle retains the basic proportions of the GV70 but features several off-road-centric modifications, including:
Increased ground clearance
High-clearance wheels and tires
A front-mounted winch
Likely reinforced underbody protection
All-electric drivetrain with AWD capability
These are not typical tweaks for a street-focused luxury SUV, suggesting this isn’t just a cosmetic or drivetrain test. Instead, it points to Genesis testing components for a rugged, electric luxury SUV—possibly the Genesis X Gran Equator.
Genesis X Gran Equator: From Concept to Reality?
First shown at the New York Auto Show, the X Gran Equator concept drew widespread attention with its imposing stance, luxury-focused interior, and off-road-ready profile. It was widely interpreted as Genesis’ answer to models like the Rivian R1S, Mercedes EQG, and Land Rover Defender EV.
The recently sighted mule appears to validate Genesis’ interest in entering the premium off-road EV space—possibly using the E-GMP platform or a modified version of it, given the brand’s experience with vehicles like the GV60 and Electrified G80.
Key Details from the Test Mule
Base Vehicle: Genesis GV70 Electrified
Powertrain: Fully electric (likely dual-motor AWD)
Off-Road Features:
Raised ride height
Functional front winch
All-terrain tires
Possible underbody protection
Such features are unusual for any production GV70 variant, signaling a major shift in Genesis’ design and capability goals.
Strategic Timing for the Luxury EV Market
Genesis entering the luxury off-road EV segment would be a timely move. As demand surges for electric SUVs that combine performance, utility, and upscale features, Genesis could position the X Gran Equator as a halo vehicle—an EV that competes not only in the showroom but on trails and overland routes.
Final Thoughts: A Bold Direction for Genesis
While Genesis has yet to confirm any production plans for the X Gran Equator, this test mule offers the strongest indication yet that the brand is serious about evolving beyond urban luxury into electric adventure utility. If development continues, the production model could be unveiled within the next 12–18 months, setting the stage for Genesis to challenge legacy off-road brands in the electrified era.
Stay tuned—we’ll be tracking this story as it develops.
Genesis X Gran Equator Concept unveiled at NY Auto Show
