Genesis Donates $8M to CA Wildfire Relief, Launches ‘California Rises’ at the 2025 Genesis Invitational

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that swept across California in January, Genesis, TGR Live, and the PGA TOUR have united to launch the “California Rises” initiative, a charitable program designed to provide vital support for relief and rebuilding efforts in the affected communities. This year’s Genesis Invitational, traditionally held at The Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, has been relocated to the South Course at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego in light of the ongoing recovery efforts.

Genesis, a key partner of the event, has committed $8 million to wildfire relief efforts through vehicle donations and financial contributions. As part of this initiative, the company will donate 100 vehicles, including models like the GV70 and GV80, to organizations such as the Salvation Army – Southern California Division, ThinkWatts Foundation, and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. These vehicles, valued at $7.5 million, will play a critical role in providing transportation for those affected by the fires and supporting ongoing relief operations.

Jose Muñoz, president and CEO of Genesis, expressed the company’s commitment to the region.

“Southern California is our home, and it’s heartbreaking to see the destruction caused by the wildfires. We are proud to contribute to the recovery through this $8 million donation to organizations making a real impact on the ground. California Rises is a powerful reminder of how we can all come together to support our communities in their time of need,” said Muñoz.

The Genesis Invitational will serve as the centerpiece for California Rises, with tournament proceeds going toward four key charitable organizations: the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, the California Fire Foundation, and the Genesis Inspiration Foundation. These organizations have already been instrumental in providing immediate assistance to the affected communities and will continue to drive recovery efforts in the months ahead. The Genesis Inspiration Foundation, in particular, will focus on supporting arts education programs in schools that have been impacted by the fires.

In addition to Genesis’ vehicle donations, the California Rises initiative will feature several fundraising efforts throughout the Genesis Invitational tournament. Players and fans can support the cause via the “Birdies for Good” campaign, with $300 donated to California Rises for every birdie and eagle made during the tournament. A special $10,000 donation will be made for any hole-in-one achieved. Furthermore, all ticket fees from the tournament will be directed to the California Rises initiative, and exclusive merchandise will be available for purchase at the tournament shop, with all proceeds benefiting wildfire recovery efforts.

“The Genesis Invitational has called Los Angeles home for nearly a century and has a long-standing history of positively impacting the community,” said Mike Antolini, tournament director of The Genesis Invitational. “Although we are not at Riviera this year, we are proud to be part of California Rises in support of the relief efforts.”

California Rises: A Community Effort

The “California Rises” initiative is more than just a fundraising effort – it’s a platform for sharing the inspiring stories of resilience, compassion, and community spirit. Throughout the tournament, fans will be able to send thank you notes to first responders through the “Postcards from the Tee” program in the Genesis Lounge. Special recognition will also be given to first responders, firefighters, and frontline workers, with exclusive access to tournament events and a chance to interact with PGA TOUR players.

The California Rises initiative also highlights the importance of community involvement and how everyone, from professional athletes to local residents, can play a part in recovery. The Genesis Invitational’s live broadcasts on GOLF Channel, CBS, and PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+ will feature these stories, showcasing how individuals and organizations are coming together to help rebuild California.

The tournament will also debut a special episode of “Chippin’ In,” a PGA TOUR Studios original series that blends golf, competition, and philanthropy. The first episode, which features California natives Max Homa and Collin Morikawa, will focus on raising money for the California Fire Foundation as part of the larger California Rises initiative.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways for fans and supporters to contribute to California Rises, both during the tournament and beyond. To learn more about the initiative or make a donation, visit pgatour.com/CaliforniaRises. The 2025 Genesis Invitational is not just about world-class golf – it’s about coming together to help rebuild California and uplift the communities that have been affected by the recent wildfires.

By supporting California Rises, you’re not just a spectator in the game of golf – you’re an active participant in a movement of hope, resilience, and recovery. Together, we can make a difference.

Genesis Electrified GV70 Named Best Luxury Car of 2025 by CARS.COM

On February 6, 2025, Genesis announced that for the second consecutive year, the Genesis Electrified GV70 has been awarded Cars.com’s prestigious Best Luxury Car of 2025. This recognition highlights the exceptional performance, style, and usability of the all-electric SUV, cementing its place as a standout in the luxury vehicle market.

The Best Luxury Car of 2025 award, selected by the Cars.com editorial team, is reserved for vehicles from luxury brands that showcase outstanding drivability, innovative features, and a superior driving experience. With the Electrified GV70, Genesis has once again set a high bar for electric luxury vehicles, combining cutting-edge technology with bold design and premium performance.

Launched in early 2023, the Electrified GV70 quickly became Genesis’s best-selling electric SUV, captivating drivers with its combination of efficiency, high-end features, and a refined driving experience. It also marked a significant milestone as the first Genesis vehicle to be assembled in the U.S., at the company’s Montgomery, Alabama manufacturing facility.

“The Electrified GV70, which is assembled in the U.S., represents an athletic yet elegant option in our SUV lineup,” said Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “This back-to-back recognition from Cars.com is a testament to our relentless commitment to building vehicles that enhance every aspect of the driving experience. We are honored to receive this accolade and look forward to introducing the new Electrified GV70 later this year.”

“The 2025 Genesis Electrified GV70 perfectly marries luxury and electrification, offering an elegant design, premium materials, and exhilarating performance,” said Mike Hanley, senior road test editor at Cars.com. “Its powerful electric drivetrain and rapid fast-charging capabilities enhance its appeal, while the luxurious interior coddles occupants. By delivering an exceptional blend of style, sophistication and value, the Electrified GV70 earns its place as Cars.com’s Best Luxury Car of 2025.”

Award-Winning Features of the 2025 Electrified GV70

The 2025 Genesis Electrified GV70 continues to impress with its state-of-the-art features and exceptional driving dynamics. As an all-electric luxury SUV, it brings together sleek design, top-tier technology, and outstanding sustainability. The GV70 features cutting-edge driver assistance systems, a refined interior, and a spacious cabin for ultimate comfort on every journey.

Genesis’s commitment to creating a seamless driving experience is evident in the GV70’s advanced electric powertrain, which delivers smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and impressive range.

The 2025 Electrified GV70 is now available at select Genesis retailers across the United States, including in states such as California, New York, Texas, and Illinois, among others. This wide availability reflects Genesis’s ongoing commitment to expanding its electric vehicle presence across the country.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Electrified GV70

As Genesis continues to innovate, the 2026 Electrified GV70 will take the electric SUV experience to new heights. Slated for release later this year, this enhanced version will include a host of new features, making it an even more compelling choice for drivers looking to embrace the future of driving.

One of the most anticipated upgrades is the 84kWh high-capacity battery, which will offer improved range, ensuring customers can enjoy longer drives with fewer charging stops. Additionally, the 2026 GV70 will exclusively feature a North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port and include a Combined Charging System (CCS) adapter, providing drivers with greater flexibility and more accessible charging options.

These enhancements aim to elevate the driving experience while continuing to meet the growing demand for sustainable, luxury electric vehicles.

Genesis: Paving the Way for Sustainable Luxury

The success of the Genesis Electrified GV70 is a testament to the brand’s vision of combining sustainable driving with luxurious features. By offering both performance and eco-conscious solutions, Genesis continues to redefine the future of electric vehicles.

As the electrified GV70 remains a fan favorite, and with exciting developments on the horizon for the upcoming 2026 model, Genesis’s commitment to providing top-tier electric vehicles will undoubtedly drive further success in the growing luxury EV market.

To learn more about the 2025 Genesis Electrified GV70 or to find a retailer near you, visit the official Genesis website.

EVinfo.net Appreciates Genesis, TGR Live, and the PGA Tour for Helping Wildfire Victims

EVinfo.net is located in San Diego County, California. We were heartbroken to see the devastation our neighbors to the north suffered during the wildfires. We thank Genesis, TGR Live, and the PGA Tour for helping wildfire victims.

EVs are the most eco-friendly transportation, as well as the most cost-effective. EVs fight climate change through reducing greenhouse gases. Human-caused climate change is the root cause of the California wildfires in January, along with wildfires around the globe. The reason for this is increased heat, which creates more dangerous conditions including drier, more flammable brush. NASA reported 2024 as the hottest year in history. Join us in supporting initiatives that fight human-caused climate change, including EV adoption.

Hyundai Motor Company is a South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, which was founded in 1967. Currently, the company owns 33.88 percent of Kia Corporation, and fully owns two marques including its luxury cars subsidiary, Genesis, and their electric vehicle brand Ioniq. The three brands make up the Hyundai Motor Group. EVinfo.net recommends all Hyundai Motor Group EVs, with the exception of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.