New Hummer concepts: smaller, lighter, and more affordable
GMC’s Hummer EVs are too large and too expensive for most American buyers, but the situation may be about to change. GM has unveiled two concepts which, they say, will not go into production, yet offer a glimpse into the future of a more compact and streamlined Hummer generation.
Presentation at a new design studio
The concepts were presented during the opening of GM’s new advanced design studio in Pasadena, California. The 148,000-square-foot studio is spread across three buildings and employs 100 staff members. The models are named Hummer X SUV and Hummer X Truck. They are significantly shorter than the current electric Hummers and, by design, serve as “rolling laboratories” for testing new ideas in design, manufacturing, and technology.
Hummer X SUV: a compact off-road SUV
The first model presented is the Hummer X SUV, which is close in size to the Ford Bronco. It measures 188.3 inches (4,783 mm) in length with a wheelbase of 116 inches (2,946 mm). This is 10.7 inches (272 mm) shorter between the axles than the current Hummer SUV, while retaining the massive look and visual toughness expected from the brand.
Off-road capabilities are also impressive. The concept is equipped with 37-inch tires, beadlock wheels, Multimatic dampers, removable fender flares, heavy-duty underbody protection, and sufficient ground clearance to tackle serious obstacles. Approach and departure angles are 44 and 46 degrees respectively, indicating that designers weren’t just aiming for a visually off-road-ready vehicle.
Innovative interior and reconnaissance drone
Inside, the concept explores possibilities of a highly configurable cockpit with stackable infotainment displays that can be added or removed depending on how much information the driver needs. It also features a drone capable of scouting the terrain ahead and relaying information back to the vehicle.
Hummer X Truck: a midsize pickup
The Hummer X Truck follows a similar philosophy but is embodied in a familiar pickup form. It measures 207.3 inches (5,265 mm) in length with a wheelbase of 130.7 inches (3,319 mm). It is significantly larger than the SUV but fits into the midsize pickup segment rather than competing with the current massive Hummer.
Flex Fab technology
Like the SUV, the pickup features removable components, rugged off-road equipment, and a design that supports customization. GM also used these concepts to showcase the Flex Fab manufacturing technology, which allows for the production of metal parts in small series without traditional stamping tools.
Will these concepts see production?
GM insists these vehicles are not intended for production. And that is likely true. But the ideas behind them are hard to dismiss. The Hummer brand remains surprisingly undervalued, given its recognition and the trend for rugged SUVs. A family of smaller, more affordable off-road EVs would make more sense than relying solely on massive six-figure flagship models that sell so poorly GM had to close a plant.
Even if these specific concepts never go into production, don’t be surprised if elements of their DNA appear in future Hummers aimed at competing with the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Gladiator. And probably sooner than you think.
Thus, the presented concepts are a clear signal of a strategic shift at GM. Instead of continuing the race for giant, overly expensive electric vehicles, the company appears to be preparing a lineup of more practical and affordable SUVs. Technologies honed in these “laboratories,” particularly Flex Fab and modular interiors, could form the foundation for a new era of Hummer that is closer to real customer needs, rather than just a demonstration of technical prowess.