Decoding The Odd Shifter
One of the eye-catching details seen in spy photos of the upcoming Genesis GV90 is the shifter behind the steering wheel, which appears to be pointed upward. Thanks to a patent uncovered by The Korean Car Blog (patent no. 12630012, if you want to check), there may now be an explanation for what was observed in those prototypes.
The shifter has two modes: Standby Mode and Use Mode. Standby Mode, activated when the vehicle is turned off, appears to match what was shown in the spy photos, with the shifter pointed in the 12 o’clock position. Use Mode, meanwhile, activates when the vehicle is started or when the driver takes control. An internal electric servo motor automatically rotates the assembly to around the 2 o’clock position, making it easier to access, similar to the setup in General Motors’ full-size SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade.
Luxury Or Excess?
The report suggested that this setup helps create a minimalist and clutter-free interior. On the other hand, it could be seen as another showpiece feature aimed at luxury-car buyers, joining innovations such as retractable door handles, which have faced criticism for potential safety concerns, and the power-operated rear-hinged doors commonly found on Rolls-Royce models.
But that may simply be the nature of the ultra-luxury segment, especially with the GV90 expected to become Genesis’ new flagship.
The GV90 draws inspiration from the Neolun Concept unveiled two years ago, which already featured a shifter positioned at the 12 o’clock position behind the steering wheel. The concept’s cabin adopted a distinctly minimalist design, reflecting a broader trend in the ultra-luxury segment seen in vehicles such as the Cadillac Celestiq.
Connecting More Dots
It is worth noting, however, that the report is based on a patent filing, meaning it may not provide an explanation of the mechanism. It could, and the spy photos and the Neolun Concept do strengthen that connection. Only time will tell once Genesis launches the GV90 later this year.
The GV90 is also expected to feature Rolls-Royce-style coach doors, with reports suggesting it could forgo a traditional B-pillar to create a more open and spacious cabin, though such a configuration would require additional engineering to maintain structural rigidity and crash protection. Other expected details include an EPA-estimated driving range of 300-350 miles, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing more than 500 horsepower, and a starting price of around $100,000.
USPTO
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