Hyundai really turned heads at the New York International Auto Show with their Boulder Concept, a tough SUV that gives us a look at the framework Hyundai intends to use for future vehicles. This new “body-on-frame” platform, as it’s called, will likely be the base for a midsize pickup truck Hyundai hopes to have on the road by 2030.
For Hyundai, the Boulder Concept is quite a change. They have generally made crossovers and SUVs with a ‘unibody’ structure. ‘Body-on-frame’ is more common for trucks and really tough off-road vehicles as it’s stronger, can pull heavier loads, and is better for going off road. Hyundai also states this new platform will be designed, built and developed in the US, for people in the US.
The look of the concept vehicle shows how much it’s about being rugged: it’s boxy, has a lot of space under it (high ground clearance) and enormous 37 inch mud and terrain tires. It also has roof windows in a safari style, a roof rack with strong steel webbing for luggage, and a special back door that can open from either side. Plus, the rear window is electric and drops down, letting you fit longer items inside, or get more air in for off-road driving.
Hyundai specifically created the Boulder Concept for those who love driving off-road. It even has a computer program that is an off-road guide, rather like a digital helper, to assist drivers through tricky land. Inside, it’s designed with hard-wearing materials, actual buttons you push, and a flexible interior. For example, you get fold-out trays for camping or working on a building site.
The Boulder Concept is simply an idea for now, but it very obviously shows Hyundai’s intention to get into the midsize truck market, which at the moment is largely taken up by the Toyota Tacoma, the Ford Ranger and the Chevrolet Colorado. Hyundai confirms the new ‘body-on-frame’ base will be used for more vehicles in the future, and they’re being designed specifically for buyers in America.
