It seems that GMC has finally listened to enthusiasts and realized, albeit indirectly, that the current Hummer EV lineup may have become too large and too expensive for most off-road fans.
In a surprising reveal during the opening of General Motors’ new Advanced Design Studio in Pasadena, California, the company unveiled two striking concept vehicles: the Hummer X SUV and Hummer X Truck. While GMC insists these concepts are not intended for immediate production, they offer a clear glimpse into the future: a Hummer that is smaller, lighter, and more reasonably priced to compete with the kings of off-roading.
GMC Explores the Future of Smaller and Smarter Hummers
Hummer X SUV: The Ideal Size to Challenge the Bronco and Wrangler
The first concept, the Hummer X SUV, is a dedicated off-road SUV roughly comparable in size to the Ford Bronco.
Key highlights include:
- More maneuverable dimensions: The SUV measures 188.3 inches (4,783 mm) in length with a 116-inch (2,946 mm) wheelbase. That makes it approximately 10.7 inches (272 mm) shorter than the current Hummer EV SUV, improving agility on tight trails while maintaining the Hummer presence.
- Serious off-road hardware: GMC equipped it with massive 37-inch tires, beadlock wheels, advanced Multimatic dampers, removable fenders, and heavy-duty underbody protection.
- Impressive approach and departure angles: The concept boasts a 44-degree approach angle and a 46-degree departure angle, proving it was designed as a genuine rock crawler rather than simply a styling exercise.
Hummer X Truck: A Mid-Size Pickup with Revolutionary Manufacturing Technology
The second concept, the Hummer X Truck, applies the same philosophy in pickup form.
The truck measures 207.3 inches (5,265 mm) long and rides on a 130.7-inch (3,319 mm) wheelbase, placing it firmly in the mid-size pickup segment alongside vehicles such as the Chevrolet Colorado rather than the oversized current Hummer EV Pickup.
GM also used the concept to showcase an innovative manufacturing process called Flex Fab, which enables low-volume production of metal components without the expensive tooling typically required for stamping and forming. This could pave the way for easier customization and more personalized vehicle components.
Futuristic Cabin and Built-In Reconnaissance Drone
Inside, the Hummer X concepts venture into science fiction territory with a highly adaptable cockpit.
- Stackable displays: Drivers can add or remove infotainment screens depending on their preferences and the amount of information they want visible while driving.
- Integrated exploration drone: A built-in drone can fly ahead of the vehicle, scout terrain beyond dunes and hills, and send live video and detailed route information directly to the driver’s display.
Could We See Them in Showrooms Soon?
Although GMC officially describes these vehicles as mobile laboratories for testing future technologies and design ideas, market realities suggest there may be more to the story.
Current Hummer EV models have struggled to attract buyers due to their six-figure price tags, leading General Motors to temporarily halt production earlier this year.
Given those challenges, introducing a smaller and more affordable electric Hummer lineup capable of competing with the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Gladiator could be the most logical path forward for the brand. It would allow GMC to capitalize on the legendary Hummer name while appealing to a much broader audience.
If these concepts are any indication, don’t be surprised if elements of the Hummer X SUV and Hummer X Truck make their way into production vehicles sooner rather than later.
