Hyundai has released the first teaser
image of an upcoming, eco-friendly vehicle that draws inspiration from the last
year’s 45 concept. Hyundai is keeping details under wraps, but the model was
created by the company’s European design center and is aptly named the Soapbox. It features trapezoidal body which is painted yellow and
features a small Hyundai logo on its side. The model also has red wheels, solid
axles and a prominent hand brake.
While it’s not much of a looker, Hyundai
said it’s “exposed wheels and a low-lying frame give it a dynamic character.”
They also added the “straight lines stretching at an angle across the car’s
body” are a clear reference to the 45 concept.
That might be taking things a bit too far,
but Hyundai suggested the model is a classic soapbox racer as they pointed out
the name refers to a “motorless, gravity-propelled vehicle that was
traditionally raced by children on a downhill road.” The company went on to
note they were originally built from discarded wooden soap crates, but now
boast more modern and sophisticated designs.
While a lot of questions remain, Hyundai
implied this isn’t a one-off project as they hinted at plans to make a “design
inspired by the traditional soapbox accessible for customers around Europe.”
What that means remains unclear, but it suggests the company could either sell
the Soapbox in Europe or offer a kit to enable people to build one on their
own. We’ll find out soon enough as the Soapbox is set to be unveiled soon.
