A CarGurus research project has inspired the creation of ‘the ultimate dog-friendly accessory’ for the Genesis Electrified GV70.
The Genesis X Dog concept, as it’s called, runs off the car's vehicle-to-load electric power source, and comprises a boot-mounted heated dog bed with ambient lighting and a wireless Bluetooth audio system, plus a built-in electric shower (fed by a built-in six-litre pressurised water tank) and hairdryer. There are also various push-to-open storage spaces complete with 230V plug sockets. Meanwhile, a retractable lightweight ramp made from aluminium and carbon-fibre gives your pooch easy access to the boot of Genesis’ all-electric midsize luxury SUV. The package is completed by a personalised leather dog collar and safety harness to keep your four-legged friend safe and secure while on the move.
The car was inspired by an original research project about dogs and electric cars, commissioned by CarGurus UK and carried out by the University of Lincoln. In the research, experts studied the behaviour of 20 dogs when undertaking two identical 10-minute car journeys, one in a diesel car and one in an electric car. The research found that when travelling in the electric car, the dogs were generally more relaxed and displayed less anxiety than when travelling in the diesel car. Two of the dogs that appeared to suffer nausea in the diesel car also seemed to suffer fewer symptoms in the electric car. It’s thought that this was due to the fact that electric cars are quieter and give off fewer vibrations than those with a combustion engine. The full research paper can be found here: Preliminary study comparing dogs’ responses to travel in electric cars.
Two of the cars used to conduct the research were GV70s provided by Genesis UK, one diesel and one electric. And it was Genesis’ involvement in this project that inspired the creation of the Genesis X Dog concept.
A statement from Genesis UK said: “Genesis X Dog has been designed to cater for everything a dog needs before, during and after travel.
“The module has been crafted with great attention to detail, including quilted vegan leather sidewalls with matching trim to the interior of Electrified GV70, non-slip surfaces and safety locking mechanism, which include two straps on the side of the unit to prevent movement during transit, as well as a safety harness anchor point. The lightweight, pull-out ramp is manufactured from aluminium and carbon-fibre telescopic tubes to allow easy access to the boot, while also being highly resistant and adaptable to all kinds of terrains.
“Interior lighting available in a choice of 100 colours is included on the base of the module surrounding the bed to create a sense of calm. With blue and violet tones recommended as more calming for dogs, the ambient lighting can help to further reduce stress levels when travelling. The lighting has been designed to blend in seamlessly with the rest of Electrified GV70’s cabin, however it is carefully positioned in the lower part of the interior as to not distract the driver.
“Electrified GV70 owners can also remove the complete module at any time in the case that additional boot space is needed. The concept was created as a one-off accessory to showcase how dog-owners could travel with their companion without sacrificing comfort.”
The Genesis X Dog concept will now be on show at various Genesis Studios (the firm’s bespoke retail spaces) throughout London in the coming weeks as part of an immersive experience. It’ll be shown at Genesis Studio Battersea between May 9th and 21st, and then at Genesis Studio Westfield from May 22nd to June 5th.