Genesis, the luxury automotive brand spun off from Hyundai, has rapidly ascended in the global market, challenging established luxury marques. Since its independent launch in 2015, Genesis has garnered attention for its sophisticated designs, advanced technology, and commitment to customer experience. Initially met with skepticism, as highlighted in a CNBC report featuring industry veterans Randy Parker and Claudia Marquez, Genesis has not only survived but thrived, exceeding expectations and even surpassing Infiniti in U.S. sales. This success begs the question for many discerning consumers: where are these increasingly popular Genesis vehicles actually manufactured?
To understand where Genesis cars are made, it’s important to acknowledge its roots. Genesis is the luxury division of South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Company. This heritage plays a significant role in its manufacturing footprint. While Genesis aims to establish a global presence, its production is strategically distributed to cater to key markets while maintaining quality control.
The primary manufacturing hub for Genesis vehicles is South Korea. This is where the majority of Genesis models are produced, leveraging Hyundai’s established manufacturing infrastructure and skilled workforce. Specifically, Genesis cars are primarily manufactured at Hyundai Motor Company’s plants within South Korea. These facilities adhere to stringent quality standards to ensure the premium nature of the Genesis brand. Models such as the flagship G90 sedan, the elegant G80 sedan, and the sporty G70 sedan, along with their electric variants, are predominantly manufactured in South Korea and then exported to various global markets, including North America.
Patricia Wayne, first all-electric GV60 customer and Claudia Marquez (right), chief operating officer, Genesis Motor North America
Recognizing the importance of the North American market, Genesis has expanded its manufacturing operations beyond South Korea. To cater to the growing demand in the United States and to potentially mitigate tariffs and shipping costs, Genesis has established a manufacturing presence within the U.S. Currently, select Genesis models are being assembled at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) in Montgomery, Alabama. This plant plays a crucial role in producing the GV70 SUV, both in its gasoline and electric versions, for the North American market. This move signifies Genesis’s commitment to localizing production and responding effectively to regional market demands.
Looking to the future, Genesis is poised to further enhance its manufacturing capabilities in the United States. With Hyundai Motor Group’s significant investment in a new $7.6 billion electric vehicle and battery manufacturing plant in Bryan County, Georgia, Genesis is expected to play a key role in this expansion. While specific models to be produced at the Georgia plant are yet to be fully detailed, José Muñoz, Hyundai president and global COO, has indicated that Genesis will be a “key focus” of this new facility. This suggests that we can anticipate increased production of Genesis vehicles, potentially including electric models and possibly new additions to the lineup like the rumored three-row SUV, at the Georgia plant in the coming years. This strategic move will further solidify Genesis’s manufacturing footprint in North America and contribute to quicker delivery times and potentially more competitive pricing for US customers.
Patricia Wayne, first all-electric GV60 customer and Claudia Marquez (right), chief operating officer, Genesis Motor North America
In summary, Genesis cars are primarily manufactured in South Korea, which serves as the brand’s global production heartland. However, recognizing the strategic importance of the North American market, Genesis has expanded its manufacturing to the United States, with the GV70 currently being assembled in Alabama. Furthermore, future expansion in Georgia promises to increase US-based Genesis production significantly. This dual-location manufacturing strategy allows Genesis to efficiently serve global markets while emphasizing local production for key regions like North America, ensuring that the brand can continue its impressive growth trajectory in the luxury automotive landscape. As Genesis continues to gain market share and introduce new models, understanding its manufacturing locations provides valuable insight into its global strategy and commitment to meeting customer demand.
