Detroit 2008: Hummer HX and Saab 9-4X concepts unveiled (video)

It's a nimble, fresh concept intended to provide a vision of the future direction of the Hummer brand. It's called the Hummer HX concept, and it boasts efficiency and capability while delivering an open-air and fully customizable driving experience.

The HX was given its look by three recent design graduates. Each designer submitted a different concept sketch and proposal. The winner, as chosen by GM executives, will be displayed at the NAIAS in Detroit. Imagine having that on your resume!


"HUMMER appeals to young people globally and served as a perfect first assignment for our newest talent," said Ed Welburn, vice president of global design and product planning. "Today's graduates from top design schools are ready to hit the ground running. The HUMMER design challenge gave our newest designers an opportunity to sprint."

The youthful and entry-level-sized HX boasts removable roof panels, doors, and a modular rear-roof assembly which never leave open-air motoring more than just moments away. The concept is powered by a 3.6 litre direct-injected V6 that delivers power to all four wheels by a full-time 4WD system that features locking differentials in front and rear.

Inside, an aeronautically-inspired interior boasts aircraft-style seating and a reconfigurable instrument cluster that's mounted to an exposed cross-member. The cluster and comes with a removable top for added storage inside, and the instruments automatically change from a highway-mode to an off-road mode when the vehicle is shifted into low-range. A rubberized floor is easily cleaned and adds to the machine's rugged look.

Look for the Hummer HX concept on display at the NAIAS in Detroit next week.