Hyundai Reveals Futuristic CRATER Concept at AutoMobility LA 2025

Hyundai has taken a bold step toward the future of off-road mobility with the global debut of the CRATER Concept at AutoMobility LA 2025. Developed at Hyundai’s California-based design facility, the CRATER is a compact electric off-road SUV that previews the brand’s evolving XRT-inspired design direction. While still a concept, the CRATER explores new ideas in utility, modularity, and rugged capability — setting the tone for what future Hyundai off-road models may offer.

Rugged Exterior Built for Extreme Terrain

The Hyundai CRATER Concept carries a distinctly adventurous personality, combining futuristic angular styling with serious off-road hardware. Highlighted exterior features include:

• Steep approach and departure angles ideal for rocky paths
• Wide skid plate for underbody protection
• 18-inch hexagonal faceted wheels paired with chunky 33-inch off-road tyres
• Rear-hinged back doors for easy cabin access
• Multi-utility roof platform for gear and equipment
• Side cameras with removable action cameras
• Special off-road lighting system
• Terrain mode selector with Snow, Sand, and Mud modes

Together, these elements make the CRATER look ready for anything — from tough trails to post-apocalyptic landscapes.

A Durable and Tech-Forward Interior

Inside, Hyundai focuses on both durability and innovation. The dashboard integrates a full-width head-up display (HUD) that replaces traditional screens and allows drivers to customize information layouts. The interior also features:

• A roll-cage-like cabin structure
• Supportive, rugged seats for off-road comfort
• Removable modular accessories for added flexibility
• A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) interface, letting users connect their own devices for personalization

Hyundai emphasizes practical materials that can withstand outdoor use while still delivering a futuristic cabin environment.

Designed for the Adventurous Spirit

Although Hyundai has not confirmed whether the CRATER Concept will enter production, the brand is known for turning advanced concepts into real-world models. As part of the company’s vision for the XRT range (Extreme Rugged Terrain), the CRATER blends emotional design with true off-road capability—reflecting Hyundai’s future direction in electric adventure vehicles.

With the CRATER Concept, Hyundai continues to push boundaries, offering a glimpse of how electric mobility, rugged engineering, and modular design can merge to shape the next generation of compact off-road SUVs.

Afsheen Gohar

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