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| Hyundai's 2026 Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: A Strategic Bridge to Electrification with 21 EV Models by 2030 Image credit: Hyundai |
Hyundai is set to introduce plug-in hybrid SUVs in 2026 as part of its strategy to bridge the gap to full electrification. Announced during the automaker's 2024 CEO Investor Day, this new powertrain will feature two electric motors for all-wheel drive, with a combustion engine primarily acting as a generator.
This setup is reminiscent of the discontinued Chevrolet Volt and represents a shift from the plug-in hybrids previously offered by Hyundai.
A Long-Range Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain
The new plug-in hybrid powertrain will deliver a combined range of up to 559 miles using both gasoline and electricity, with Hyundai promising an "EV-like driving experience." The automaker believes this will encourage consumers to transition to fully electric vehicles in the future.
The powertrain will debut in SUVs for both Hyundai and its luxury brand, Genesis, with production beginning by the end of 2026 and sales starting in 2027.
Genesis Plug-in Hybrid SUV and Future Hybrid Models
The Genesis brand, originally planned to offer only EVs or fuel-cell vehicles by 2030, has adjusted its strategy to include hybrids due to customer demand.
Earlier this year, The Korea Economic Daily reported that Genesis is developing a hybrid powertrain around a 2.5-liter engine, likely intended for the G80 sedan and GV70 SUV. This move could see Genesis launch multiple hybrid models, supplementing its EV lineup.
Enhancing Hybrid Technology and Expanding Production
Hyundai is also focused on upgrading its existing hybrid system to improve both fuel efficiency and performance. The company aims to sell 1.3 million hybrids globally by 2028, with 690,000 units targeted for North America by 2030.
Additionally, Hyundai plans to start producing hybrids alongside electric vehicles at its new Georgia Metaplant, scheduled to open later this year.
Hyundai's EV Vision: 2 Million Global Sales by 2030
Despite its hybrid initiatives, Hyundai remains committed to electrification. The automaker is researching advanced battery technologies, including a new chemistry set to debut in 2030. This will complement current nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries. Hyundai is also exploring cell-to-vehicle packaging, which integrates battery cells directly with a vehicle's body shell, going beyond current cell-to-pack designs.
Hyundai has ambitious plans for its electric vehicle lineup, targeting 2 million global EV sales by 2030. Among the upcoming models is the Hyundai Ioniq 9, a three-row SUV based on the Hyundai Seven concept, which is expected to debut later this year. The automaker also plans to introduce additional performance-oriented EV models, similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
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