Tag Archives: off-roader

Callum Skye is a boxy crossover SUV coupe with impressive off-roading capabilities

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Ian Callum, the legendary designer of sports cars like Jaguar C-X75 and Aston Martin Vanquish is bringing his first ever vehicle under the brand name Callum to the world. The lightweight and stylish off-road electric vehicle prototype finally got revealed at the Concours on Saville Row, London and it doesn’t disappoint.

Unlike his earlier creations, the Callum Skye has a Baja off-road vehicle influence with a distinct form that’s bound to put the Tesla Cybertruck in a tough spot. This maiden electric vehicle will be powered by four independent motors on each axle for better control on tough terrains. The ultra-fast charging 42-kWh battery pack will feed the drivetrain that can manage a range of 170 miles on a single charge. The tough EV can be charged in just under ten minutes which is mind-boggling.

Designer: Callum Designs

According to David Fairbairn, managing director, Callum, “The CALLUM SKYE is bold, beautifully engineered and crafted with refinement and craftsmanship. The same can be said for the world-leading bespoke tailoring that exists on Savile Row. Compact, capable and extremely beautiful, we’re confident that this representation of the SKYE exterior will turn heads.” Measuring 4,047mm in length and 1,900mm in width, and weighing just 1,150kg, the performance-oriented off-roader is capable of going from zero to 60 mph in just under four seconds. The lightweight chassis and electric motors make the vehicle have 247bhp and 221 lb-ft of torque.

The fact that Skye has the ground clearance of a SUV and the form of a coupe with the semblance of a beach buggy, makes it stand out from the rest. On the inside, it is equally impressive with a 2+2 layout with sporty seats for the front passengers and a rear bench seat for smaller riders or to store essentials. There’s a three-spoke steering wheel, big infotainment touchscreen (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible) and a vertical arrangement of other small touchscreens on the central stack. The latter will house the tactile dials to control the HVAC and other key features.

Callum is taking orders for the Skye with prices ranging from anywhere between $101,000 to $127,000. To start off the production numbers will be limited and more variants will come in by the end of 2024. Some of them will be more focused on off-road capabilities while others are going to be more oriented towards normal city driving with tuned on-road dynamics. The deliveries for the sporty off-road EV will commence in summer 2026.

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Maserati MC20 Dakar Edition is an adventurous Italian supercar challenging the Lambo Huracan Sterrato

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Carmakers like Lamborghini and Porsche have made the bold move to test the viability of an all-terrain supercar with the Huracan Sterrato and 911 Dakar respectively. Interestingly, one imaginative designer has derived inspiration from such builds to come up with a concept Maserati MC20 Dakar Edition to conquer any terrain an off-roader would fancy. While one would argue that the Maserati Grecale and Levante SUVs already have a presence in the market for off-roading, this concept increases the stakes a level higher.

Destined to be a mid-engined supercar, the MC Dakar Edition rides on lifted suspension and gripper tires with additions like a pair of gripper hooks and a bespoke roof rack with front-facing lights. This fun project gives high weightage to fun and style over performance, so the conceptualizer doesn’t propose any upgrades to the mid-mounted twin-turbo V6 engine capable of generating 538 lb-ft of torque.

Designer: spdesignsest

Keeping in mind this build is a Dakar edition, so the off-road modifications will disturb the aerodynamics and add to the overall weight. This will directly impact the top speed and acceleration. But if this supercar is off-roading for most of its clocked miles, it won’t matter. Continuing with the off-roading character of the vehicle, there are satin-finish aluminum skid plates on the rear and bumper extensions for a beefier profile. No doubt this concept would look dapper compared to the modified MC20.

We are not counting on the probability of this concept making it to real life as the designer works for 7 Design House which is a tuning company that has already weaved their magic on the Maserati MC20 Coupe and Cielo for visual enhancements. If potential owners like the idea of a Maserati turned into a Dakar Edition version, we could have a real version too in the future.

 

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Nissan Trail Mountain Rescue off-roader is built for tough rescue operations in the Italian alps

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Nissan has just revealed a specialized version of its X-Trail model, tailored for mountain rescue operations, that would mean the difference between life and death in inclement weather conditions. The robust Nissan X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle is equipped with the innovative e-4ORCE all-wheel drive powertrain, marking a significant step forward in the brand’s commitment to versatile and capable off-road vehicles.

The twin motor e-4ORCE system powering the heart of this X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle enhances the rig’s performance on challenging terrains, with exceptional grip management. The traction in just 1/10,000th of a second (1000 times faster than traditional systems), ensures optimal power delivery to each wheel, promoting stability and control, essential attributes for speedy mountain rescue missions. The system’s seamless integration into the X-Trail platform demonstrates the Japanese automotive giant’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of treading inhospitable terrain.

Designer: Nissan

The mountain-ready X-Trail will understandably catch the attention of automotive enthusiasts during its debut at the Italian ski resort of Cervinia. The vehicle’s robust design and purpose-built features make it an ideal choice for navigating the demanding landscapes associated with mountain rescue scenarios. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle is not just a visual spectacle; it boasts practical elements designed to aid rescue teams. The addition of tracks, replacing traditional wheels, enables the X-Trail to conquer snow-covered terrain with ease. This modification ensures the vehicle remains surefooted in challenging conditions. Loaded with additional gear including a stretcher, removing the rear seat, also ensures medical personnel can be on site for emergency care. The vehicle also comes with a siren, flashing light bar, powerful roof and hood lights, wider fenders, an enhanced front bumper with a winch and reinforced towing hooks. The footboards and a raised ride height make sure there is easy access in and out of the vehicle.

Nissan’s strategic collaboration with mountain rescue services underscores its commitment to leveraging its automotive expertise for the greater good. By tailoring the X-Trail to meet the specific needs of rescue teams, Nissan showcases its ability to adapt and innovate within the automotive landscape. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle’s unveiling will generate excitement among outdoor enthusiasts and those in search of reliable off-road solutions.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Nissan’s foray into specialized off-road applications reflects a broader trend of manufacturers catering to niche markets. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle not only serves as a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess but also highlights the brand’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of diverse user groups.

 

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This exoskeletal framed off-roader is a potential Mad Max ride for the uncertain future

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A lighter but stronger fabricated body framework is where the automotive industry is constantly drifting towards, Afterall we all need efficient EVs that push the limits of range with subtle improvement. All these little changes make a big difference to the overall perceived value of the vehicle. A very important consideration heading into the future dominated by zero-emission vehicles that’ll look radically different from what we are used to seeing.

The dystopian complexion of times we’ll live in a couple of decades from now is not going to be that rosy considering the drastic changes our environment is undergoing, and it is on course to head towards doom. That sounds like a Max Mad-like world, doesn’t it? Deserted city outskirts with priorities changing to basic survival. For such a challenging future this exoskeletal body-framed off-roader is the perfect accomplice. Most of the body weight has been shed to keep the vehicle nimble on not-so-hospitable terrain.

Designer: Maitreya Dhanak

It’s more like a buggy on a strict weight loss regime, and a lean muscular body to prove it right. The well-tuned electric motor drives the rear wheels of this two-seater machine capable of accelerating fast from a standing position to breakneck speeds. Those broad chunky tires with deep treads and the reinforced independent suspension on each wheel signal the off-roader’s ability to take on any surface with ease. The wide stance ensures stability while maneuvering swiftly at respectable speeds. To add a bit of modern touch to the design, there is the panoramic glass roof running all the way back to the rear.

Equip this baby with all those skewed monstrosities we’ve all dreaded in the Mad Max movie, and it’ll be all ready to take on The Interceptor, The Big Foot, The Plymouth Rock, or the mighty War Rig. Agility is definitely going to be the key to survival in such an unpredictable setting. Loaded with crazy weapons, this could be the perfect accomplice for a raged hero out for revenge!

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This cheesy off-roader boasts wild independent suspension + wide-body stance

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While we anticipate the likes of Tesla Cybertruck, Hummer EV SUV, Ford Bronco EV and Jeep Wrangler EV to attract the big boys club– a monstrous electric off-roader concept has captured my imagination.

An off-roading concept with a dominating personality backed by the equally potent chassis to tread any terrain with ease. It looks like a hybrid of a buggy and a big off-roading SUV made for the toughest terrains possible. The designer calls it The Huntress, and in true sense, it is actually one. With the nimbleness of a big cat (by the looks of it atleast) the electric off-roader can conquer any steep climbs or even scary rocky climbs. The independent suspension system for each wheel, superior ride height, and angle of decline make this possible.

Designer: Connery Xu

The wide-body stance of this all-terrain vehicle gives the driver assurance of pushing the limits. Assuming the vehicle has an advanced differential system and traction control, it should be able to take on the scariest of off-roading terrain with sublime confidence. This two-seater monster has bigger than normal proportions even by a pick-up’s standards. In fact, it seems bigger than a Humvee which is one of Huntress’ USP. There’s plenty of space in the vehicle bed to haul cargo for a long adventure trip to the rockies or wherever you want to head. The electric motor is positioned on the rear for better air intake, thereby delivering peak power without running things hot.

To the front is where all the flashy looks are taken to the other extreme with an array of headlights that superimpose over each other. When needed the one on top can be rotated horizontally to reveal the underlying set of headlights for times when it is difficult to see the road up ahead. Of course, there are the modernized fog lights above the windshield, but hey, extra lights are always a perk. While the riders won’t have to stress their eyes while driving in inhospitable weather conditions, those big headlights could create a blindspot.

In one of the renders created by the designer, as the vehicle takes on a bumpy rocky landscape, the independent suspension comes into play, and gives The Huntress a funny squinted look – thanks to those peeking wide-eyed headlights. The all-white hue of the off-roader contrasted with the all-black windshield and the fat tires also lend it a bit of alien personality.

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Move over Cybertruck – Thundertruck with bat wing solar awnings is the Batmobile avatar for all off-road adventures

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The ultra-futuristic EV seems like an evolved Batmobile RC toy car transformed magically into the real-world scaled-up version. Thundertruck takes things to the next level with its roof-mounted bat wing solar awning which adds to the battery power reserve and acts as potent shade in extreme heat when parked for camping, fishing, or BBQing.

All automotive fanatics are waiting for the Cybertruck to finally roll out of the production lines and on the roads. While that has been pushed back to sometime in 2022, the next generation multi-utility truck with the performance of a sports car is still seeming like a distant dream. This is the perfect opportunity for an electric MUV to give the vision of the ultimate performance truck-wide wings. Thundertruck is the perfect example of that, as it is designed for individuals who preferer living and driving outside the proverbial lines!

Designed by Wolfgang IP, the sharp-looking multi-purpose EV takes on the current automotive design principles to bring superior on and off-road performance to the fore. According to them, Thundertruck is crafted for the outdoor enthusiasts and young crowd who don’t like living within the boundaries and following the herd. The extra edgy truck (so sharp even the Cybertruck seems blunt) is inspired by the Australian Outback and honed by state-of-the-art technology adapting to any terrain and adventure coming its way. It goes from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds flat, boasting its high-performance electric motor capabilities. The advanced driver assistance systems ensure safety on dangerous trails as the scope of driving errors is always there.

The spacious cargo bed can be accessed via steps and extendable loading ramps enable loading of 2 or 4 wheel bikes. The integrated camping tent expands over the main tray, and it raises by PV trunk lid cover. There’s even a multi-purpose pull-out side draw storage unit with a slide-out kitchen or refrigerator. A matching drone flies off the roof of the vehicle to perform scouting or reiki to gauge the condition of roads ahead in unknown territory. What more can you ask from a swanky-looking MUV like this one?

Even better, the 180 kWh battery-equipped 4×4 (800 HP) can be converted into a 210 kWh battery-powered 6×6 (940 HP) multi-purpose EV monster honing a combined driving range of 560 miles and additional 2WD traction. Both the normal and 6×6 versions have massive ground clearance of 14.5 inches, an approach angle of 48 degrees, and a departure angle of 82 degrees. There’s no word yet when this truck in pure matte black will set the roads on fire, but if does anytime next year, Tesla will have a major headache on their hands!

Designer: Wolfgang

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Mercedes-Benz reveals Virgil Abloh’s Project MAYBACH coupe off-roader that showcases Virgil’s distinct design sense

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A long hooded electric show car by late fashion designer Virgil Abloh intertwines the off-road aesthetics with the luxury of a two-seater coupe. Something only Virgil could think of!

Virgil Abloh left a gaping hole in the fashion design industry last week after his unexpected sad demise due to a rare form of cancer (cardiac angiosarcoma) at the age of 41. And out of the many unparalleled creations by the influential designer, the Project MAYBACH electric concept coupe is another example of his design sense. Created in collaboration with Maybach and Daimler AG chief designer Gorden Wagener, the off-roading coupe is a thumping statement in fashion and automotive design. The two-seater coupe is an undeniable reflection of typical Abloh work with the contrasting line and big proportions. It rides on chunky off-roading wheels and has got underbody paneling to take on any terrain in style. Then there is the sizeable roof rack and high-beam lights to make the off-roading escapade an exciting adventure.

Mercedes-Benz gave Abloh and Wagener complete freedom to go crazy with the 20-foot long Project MAYBACH, and the result is a long hooded electric coupe with circular headlights and chrome vertical grille trim pieces under the spanning light bar. The transparent hood conceals the solar cells underneath which extend its range a bit further. This Maybach was built from the ground up and the straight lines and sharp edges lend it a definitive style quotient aided by the dual-toned (black and tan) paint job. The rear section gives off a peculiar spaceship-like vibe.

The vanguard tan interior of the battery-powered zero-emission show car is dominated by the spartan-like styling with matching tan-colored leather seats. They recline fully flat for relaxing or enjoying the panoramic view courtesy of the all-glass roof flowing to the rear section. There’s plenty of storage on the inside thanks to the storage bins, or the special compartments to stow away tools or other essentials that you’ll carry along on a trip. The cinematic infotainment system on the center of the dashboard folds back into the compartment when not in use.

Mercedes-Benz thanked Virgil Abloh for the relentless inspiration to “explore every day the power of cross-industry dialogue to imagine a better, more inclusive future.” Back in October Virgil said, “The Maybach legacy celebrates exploration, pushing creativity to new places, living outside of the status quo. In this next phase, we’re embracing these ideals and bringing the Mercedes Maybach heritage into the future, inviting the next generation to join in revering this icon.”

To commemorate Virgil’s legacy and appreciate Gorden’s efforts for this design, Mercedes-Benz will unveil the Project MAYBACH at Miami’s Rubell Museum from December 1 to December 2. Exclusive access to local design students will be granted from 11:30 a.m. EST to 12:30 p.m. EST on December 1.

Designer: Mercedes-Benz/Daimler AG

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The outrageous Lamborghini Xeno concept looks like it would make regular hypercars run back to their mommies

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Designed to look like a Terzo Millennio mated with a Cybertruck, the Lamborghini Xeno doesn’t feel like a fun car for fun-loving people. It’s built to show off, to dominate, and to put fear into the hearts of other drivers. The Xeno’s design comes from concept artist Aven Shi, who put together the video above. Go ahead and hit the power button to feel the adrenaline through your screen. If nothing, just the sound of the electric drivetrain should absolutely drive you wild.

Designed to be a rare type of Lamborghini, Aven Shi envisioned the Xeno as an electric hypercar that’s also meant to go off roads if necessary. Its ground clearance is marginally higher, given this ability, and when compared to the Huracan (at the end of the piece), the Xeno has a shorter nose and a longer rear. Unlike the Huracan, the Xeno has scissor doors that open to reveal the car’s two-person cockpit inside. The car comes with what looks like a two-part battery that sits right under the driver, and a four-wheel drive, giving you ample storage in the front as well as the back.

The Xeno concept sports an incredibly chiseled body, with angular surfacing that feels a lot like the Sián on steroids. Its low-poly design definitely echoes a bit of Cybertruck inspiration, and the car’s abundance of air-intakes, its forward stance, and the integrated spoiler that pops off the rear makes the Xeno look every bit the asphalt demon. In true Lambo fashion though, the Xeno doesn’t come with a rear windshield, and sports those inverted Y headlights and taillights that car enthusiasts (and even regular people) have come to love about and instantly associate with the raging bull brand. It’s a shame the Xeno is just a fan-made concept… because there isn’t much I wouldn’t give to see an off-road hypercar with the terrifying roar of an electric Lamborghini!

Designer: Aven Shi

Bond Defender 4×4’s airless tires don’t let anything get between you and unstoppable adventure!

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A beastly monochrome reinterpretation of the iconic 4×4 vehicle that has redefined off-roading adventure on this planet for seven decades. Truly this attractive monster defined by sharp looks is every millennial as well as urban junkie’s dream come true.

Land Rover Defender is a tough luxury off-roader that’s proved its mettle over the years – being a true reflection of the brand’s 70 years of innovation and improvement. Now a designer attempts to restomod the legacy in his own imagination for a 4×4 off-roader that’s a modern interpretation of the classic four-wheeler.

Automotive designer Matteo Gentile calls his off-roading beast the Bond Defender. An advanced off-roader imagined being the Bond’s accomplice in fighting the bad guys. Just in time for the latest No Time to Die movie which goes through a dangerous rescue mission of a kidnapped scientist. Strangely, Matteo chooses the Harrison (American automobile manufacturer) brand name for the Bond Defender. Anyways, the 4×4 has the evident DNA of the old and the new Land Rover Defender designs that have seen many subtle changes in look, over all these years. The front has the classic influence apparent in the grille and headlights, while the rear bears a more modern Defender aesthetics.

The contours of the original Land Rover have been shaved off for a sharp aerodynamic look all over. This gives the Bond Defender muscular appeal that you would actually want to show off on the mountain trails and desert sand dunes. From the looks of things, the fat tires look eerily similar to the NASA-inspired airless bike tires by Smart Tire Company or the recently popular bicycle tire by The Q. Putting the next generation tires on an off-roader makes complete sense as treacherous roads are rigged with unpredictable dangers for the tire’s compound and punctures.

Designer: Matteo Gentile

This off-road Lamborghini Huracan looks like an absolutely bonkers concept right out of Mad max

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It’s not every day that you find yourself with a spare Lamborghini Huracan chassis to tinker with. However, when you do, you better make the most of it. Meet the Jumpacan, a brain-meltingly insane custom off-road build created by the guys at B Is For Build, using a spare Huracan chassis provided to them by Mullins Auto Parts. It isn’t often that you see a Lamborghini racing on rough, rocky terrain, so this one should be quite a treat.

Looking like something right out of Mad Max: Fury Road, the Jumpacan features a gnarly exposed front, monster wheels, and a gravity-defying suspension system to match. Funnily enough, the doors still open vertically in the scissor style, almost as a reminder that this once used to be a luxury Italian supercar that’s now living its second life as a dune-jumping, dirt-covered monster that isn’t afraid of a few bumps in the road. The video above is a live demonstration of the Jumpacan on the Mint 400 track on the outskirts of Vegas, and behind the wheel is Chris Steinbacher from B Is For Build, taking his oddball creation for a quick spin.

Jumpacan - Lamborghini Huracan Custom Off-Roader

The chassis came from a burnt Huracan that was destined to be scrapped for parts, but B Is For Build decided to resurrect it instead. They fitted it with an LS V8 engine and a manual gearbox, 37-inch rear off-road tires, and Rotiform wheels. Other modifications to the Jumpacan include a long-travel suspension, top-mounted radiator with a roof scoop, a racing-derived fuel cell, a prominent roll cage, and the brakes from a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, resulting in the Frankenstein’s monster-equivalent of an automobile.

Jumpacan - Lamborghini Huracan Custom Off-Roader

Aside from the doors, there’s absolutely no shred of evidence of the car’s Lamborghini origins. The headlights, taillights, and logos aren’t really there anymore, and B Is For Build even switched out the steering wheel for a three-spoke LZMFG steering wheel. However, the way the car glides across surfaces, jumps off rocks, and absolutely dominates the terrain, there’s no doubt that it still possesses the raging bull spirit on the inside!

After running a test lap on the Mint 400 track, the car’s heading back to the shop and will be formally unveiled in November, right before the Mint 400 races in December this year.

Designer: B Is For Build

Jumpacan - Lamborghini Huracan Custom Off-Roader

Jumpacan - Lamborghini Huracan Custom Off-Roader