Hyundai presented the Crater, a concept car designed for adventure, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Crater is a compact off-road vehicle whose design expresses capability and robustness. Inspired by extreme environments, the Crater Concept was designed by the Hyundai America Technical Center (HATCI) in Irvine, California. “This car was born from a question: ‘What does freedom look like?’. Crater is our answer. It is a vision shaped by our relentless desire to explore, to inspire our customers to deepen their knowledge and embrace the impact of adventure,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design.
Scattered here and there around the exterior are a few “hidden gems.” Small surprises to increase the vehicle’s capabilities in all conditions. One of the integrated recovery hooks also doubles as a bottle opener, while the cameras in the vehicle’s side mirrors also function as flashlights. In emergency situations, they can be removed to capture breathtaking views or even record exciting adventures. A multifunctional tactile off-road gear controller has been designed for complete and intuitive control, lockable front and rear differentials, and traction and braking management, all of which contribute to the concept’s expressive off-road narrative.
The interior also reflects the adventurous spirit of large off-road vehicles designed to be unstoppable. There is even a first aid kit (on the passenger side), a fire extinguisher, a removable Bluetooth speaker in the center console, a hidden light on the edge of the dashboard, and easily accessible cylindrical central controls that are mechanically connected to indicator lights. The range of materials has been designed to withstand the stresses of off-roading in California’s diverse landscapes. It’s an interior ready for boots, sand, gravel, and equipment. Like a worn jacket, it will adapt and patina over time, molding itself to the journey and withstanding all stresses.
