GMC prepares Hummer EV pickup overland concept

GMC said Thursday it will collaborate with EarthCruiser on a Hummer EV pickup overlanding vehicle concept.

The brand said it will work on design and development with EarthCruiser Innovations, the design and research division of the specialty vehicle manufacturer, on an overland upfit product that will be integrated into the bed of the Hummer electric pickup.

Overlanding, which combines off-road driving with camping, puts particular demands on vehicles and could become an important niche market for those that drive emission-free.

GMC did not comment on future product plans. The concept will be revealed in late summer, GMC said.

"We had an instant connection with EarthCruiser — a leader in the overland community — and their similar vision to accelerate the zero-tailpipe-emissions future," Josh Tavel, General Motors' executive chief engineer for battery electric trucks, said in a statement. "EarthCruiser products have proven their performance in environments around the world and we're excited to join them on this next chapter of adventure and exploration."

EarthCruiser CEO Lance Gillies said in a statement that the company is looking at electrification in the overlanding space given the opportunities it poses for such things as torque control over terrain.