The heavy-duty GM brand just pulled the covers off two concepts that it swears aren't destined for production, but give us a taste of what we might expect from a future generation of smaller, leaner-looking Hummers. The concepts were unveiled alongside the opening of GM's new Advanced Design studio in Pasadena, California, a 148,000 square feet studio spread across three buildings and home to 100 staff.
The Hummer X SUV and Hummer X Truck are significantly shorter than today's Hummer EV models and were created as rolling laboratories for new design, manufacturing, and technology ideas. These concepts may be the answer to GM's struggles with its oversized EV lineup, which has failed to resonate with many American buyers.
First up is the Bronco-sized Hummer X SUV, measuring 188.3 inches long with a 116-inch wheelbase, it's 10.7 inches shorter between the axles than a current Hummer SUV, while retaining the chunky stance and visual toughness buyers expect from the nameplate. This size reduction suggests that GM is taking a more practical approach to its off-road vehicles.
The off-road credentials of the concept are equally serious, with features such as 37-inch tires, beadlock wheels, Multimatic dampers, removable fender flares, substantial underbody protection, and enough ground clearance to handle some really gnarly obstacles. This attention to detail implies that GM is committed to creating vehicles that can truly tackle the toughest terrain.
Inside, the concept explores a highly configurable cockpit featuring stackable infotainment displays that can be added or removed depending on how much information drivers want available. The addition of a drone that can scout terrain ahead and relay information back to the vehicle adds an exciting layer of technology to the design.
The Hummer X Truck follows a similar philosophy but packages it in a familiar pickup shape. At 207.3 inches long and riding on a 130.7-inch wheelbase, it's much bigger than the SUV, but slots into midsize truck territory rather competing with today's XXL Hummer trucks. This size reduction may make these vehicles more appealing to a wider range of buyers.
GM also used the concepts to showcase Flex Fab manufacturing technology, which allows low-volume metal parts production without traditional stamping tools. This technology could be key to reducing costs and increasing efficiency in the production process.
While GM is adamant that these vehicles aren't destined for showrooms, the ideas behind them feel harder to dismiss. The Hummer brand remains surprisingly underutilized given its rich history and loyal fan base.
The introduction of smaller, leaner Hummers may be a crucial step towards revitalizing the brand and appealing to a wider audience. By targeting hardcore off-roaders with trail-ready hardware and ground clearance, GM may finally find success in the highly competitive EV market.
These smaller, leaner Hummers may be the key to revitalizing the brand and appealing to a wider audience.
