en.Wedoany.com Reported - Hyundai plans to introduce an all-new body-on-frame mid-size pickup truck to the North American market before 2030, and the SUV version, the Boulder concept, has already been unveiled at the New York International Auto Show. This concept vehicle will serve as the foundation for Hyundai's entry into the mid-size pickup truck segment.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz compact pickup truck, launched in 2022, may be discontinued, with the first generation designated as its last. Reports suggest production could cease by the end of this year. Meanwhile, Hyundai's sister company Kia has also confirmed plans to enter the North American pickup market before 2030 with its mid-size model, the Tasman. It remains unclear whether these two pickups will share components or design commonalities.
The Boulder concept follows Hyundai's "Steel Art" design philosophy. The vehicle features a body-on-frame construction, which Hyundai says provides strength, durability, and functional flexibility. Externally, the vehicle is equipped with dual safari-style fixed upper windows, allowing ample natural light into the cabin; coach-style doors offer easier side loading access for both the first and second rows; and a low-profile roof rack includes a wire mesh between the roof rails to increase cargo capacity. The exterior is finished in Hyundai's "Liquid Titanium" color.
The vehicle rides on oversized 37-inch mud-terrain tires (37x12.50R18 LT), providing substantial ground clearance. A full-size spare tire mounted on the tailgate is standard. Tow hooks and door handles incorporate reflective materials for easy identification in low-light conditions. The dual-hinge tailgate can be opened from either side, and the power-sliding rear window on the tailgate accommodates extra-long items and enables pass-through ventilation. Hyundai states that the Boulder concept's off-road design gives it aggressive approach, departure, and breakover angles for off-road agility, while its "considerable wading depth" allows it to safely traverse streams and other water crossings. The vehicle is also equipped with a software-driven real-time off-road guidance system.
For the interior, Hyundai has used durable materials for key touchpoints in the Boulder concept, including armrests and other high-wear areas. Frequently used switchgear includes easily accessible physical knobs and buttons. The configurable interior features fold-out tray tables that can be used for eating lunch or completing field reports.
Regarding production prospects, Hyundai stated that the final production model arriving in dealer showrooms will be designed in the U.S., developed for the U.S., and manufactured in the U.S. using American steel produced by Hyundai. Randy Parker, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, said that developing a robust mid-size pickup truck represents a significant growth opportunity for Hyundai in the U.S., where body-on-frame trucks play a central role in this market. Jose Munoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, added that the Boulder concept demonstrates how Hyundai strives to offer customers more choices. This body-on-frame pickup is one of 36 new vehicles Hyundai plans to launch in North America by 2030.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
