South Korea’s auto market is set for more electric and hybrid launches in the second half of 2026. Eco-friendly vehicles made up 49.9% of 853,969 new registrations in the first half, according to Carisyou data.

Hyundai Motor plans to launch the Genesis GV90 electric SUV and Genesis’ first hybrid, the GV80, in September. It also plans hybrid versions of the Avante, Tucson, Santa Fe, and the G80 by year-end.

Imported brands are also expanding their lineups.

Tesla is preparing a lower-priced Model Y Standard. Volvo is set to launch the EX90. Mercedes-Benz will bring the GLC with EQ Technology and the electric CLA. BMW will start sales of refreshed 7 Series and i7 models.

Eco-friendly vehicles mainly comprise hybrids, battery electric vehicles, and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Plug-in hybrids account for only a small share, while hybrids make up most registrations.

The first-half figure is just below a broader market tipping point. Eco-friendly cars have already exceeded half of South Korea’s passenger-car market, while a Korea Development Institute study said hybrid electric vehicles gained faster than battery electric vehicles as new battery electric vehicle growth cooled.

Imported launches could still matter because 86.4% of imported-car sales are eco-friendly, and South Korea’s 2026 electric vehicle subsidies fully cover passenger electric vehicles priced under 53 million won (US$35,000), but exclude those above 85 million won (US$56,000).

🔗 Source: The Chosun Daily