GM’s rough-and-tumble Hummer segment has gone totally Tonka with the HX Concept it will show off in Detroit next week. This offroader embraces the brand’s rugged sensibilities while appeasing trail preservationists with an E85-burning, FlexFuel-ready, 304-hp, 3.6 liter V6.

It’s a vehicle we think may eventually become Hummer’s smaller, lighter, more fuel-efficient—and fun—competition for the Jeep Wrangler. We hear the production model may be called H4.

The HX’s faceted but muscular bodywork, flat glass surfaces, and squat, chopped roofline lend it a menacing stance that makes it look like it’s ready for just about anything—maybe even some Halo multiplayer. The concept’s exterior is more of an exoskeleton than a body, with modular panels that can be reconfigured as an SUT, a slant-back or a traditional wagon. Its matte olive paint scheme suggests militaristic brawn, while removable doors and fender flares show that Hummer knows what die-hard four-wheel fanatics look for in their machines.

High-end details include billet aluminum suspension components and HID headlamps that operate like autofocus SLR lenses. An aeronautically inspired interior seats four and features seats trimmed in weather resistant neoprene mounted to the body via aircraft-style tracks. A “clipped circle” design theme can be seen throughout the interior with the gauge cluster, instruments panel vents and steering wheel. That theme continues outside with the folding shovel, flashlight and first aid kit.

To prove that the HX Concept isn’t just an auto show queen, Fox provided custom-made, heavy-duty shocks with piggyback reservoirs. The beefy suspension incorporates an electronically disconnecting stabilizer bar for maximum articulation, and a full-time four-wheel-drive system including fully lockable front and rear axles. Aggressive, 35-in.-tall tires fill the massive wheel wells, and a winch, front skid plate and underbody armor kit drive home the not-so-subtle point that the HX has been designed to tackle off-road situations ranging from the tame to insane.  Story from Popular Mechanics.
 

The overall purpose of the Treasure Valleys' group is to promote the safe use and enjoyment of HUMMER vehicles (the original Hummers, H1s, H2s, H3s and Humvees) in a family-oriented atmosphere; to promote the exchange of information among its members in order to develop or improve understanding of the HUMMER vehicles and their safe use; to seek to enlist members on a national basis and to hold and sponsor events regionally and nationally; to encourage land use that is consistent with the guidelines set forth by the Tread Lightly! organization; to encourage its members to use both vehicles and land resources safely along the guidelines set forth by the United Four Wheel Drive Associations; and equally importantly, to serve as a social and educational entity, encouraging its members to be active in land use advocacy and community service.

For more information about up coming Hummer happenings click on the calendar link at the left or call me today 208-870-0565.
 

The 2007 HUMMER H3 has been added to the General Motor's (GM) line as an E85-capable 5.3L V-8. This vehicle will be one of GM's 14 FFV model options in 2007. To highlight the H3 E85’s alternative intentions, designers focused on making the H3 exterior smooth and streamlined, including the addition of a body color rear spare tire cover. A lower profile was achieved with a two-inch suspension drop. Chrome wheels and components from HUMMER Accessories complement a custom-mixed Spectra Flair matte exterior paint finish. The interior features extensive use of custom leather upholstery. Vehicle highlights: * 5.3L V-8 with E85 ethanol FlexFuel capability * Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS * Custom BASF Spectra Flair tri-coat paint in a matte finish * Sterling silver accents * Smooth, body-color-matched exterior trim * Two-inch lowered suspension * Chrome 18 x 7.5-inch HUMMER Accessories wheels * BF Goodrich 285/55R18 All Terrain tires * H3 X rear tire cover * Chrome door handles, mirror caps, hood louvers and fuel door from HUMMER Accessories * Custom matching seats and door panels in Townsend leather * Leather trim headliner and instrument panel * Unique gauge cluster and graphics * Rear-seat entertainment system with DVD headrests from HUMMER Accessories GM offers more E85 compatible models than any other vehicle manufacturer.

Ron Bovee  ron@ronbovee.com