Hyundai Veloster Gets Trick Convertible Roof for L.A. Auto Show
Hyundai's approach adds functionality to the open-top fun. The Veloster C3 (Convertible 3-door) Roll Top Concept is equipped with a red canvas roof between the outer edges of the standard car's roof and a small tailgate at the rear. The roof powers down toward the rear of the vehicle to let sunlight in, but it also powers forward toward the front of the vehicle to allow the Veloster to carry surfboards, kayaks and bicycles when the rear tailgate is dropped down.
Chris Chapman, chief designer, Hyundai Design North America, said: "The Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept offers the 'no strings attached' freedom of a roll top convertible and customizable utility that fits an everyday to a play day dual lifestyle."
Hyundai says the Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept's styling details are inspired by "fixies," fixed-gear bikes with a single speed and no brakes that are becoming mainstream in urban areas. Many people who own fixies customize them with mis-matched wheels, alternate-color saddles, unique handlebars, and more, which is why the Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept has red mirror caps and teal-colored rear wheels.
Inside, Hyundai says it has repurposed found materials in a sustainable way, such as broken skateboard decks lining the cargo area. Liz Curran, Hyundai color and trim expert from Hyundai Design North America, said: "This year we uncovered Art of Board, a company that makes hand-cut tiles from 100 percent recycled skate decks. Every scratch, scrape and gouge is kept intact--adding character and making them truly original and each with its own story. They're alive with texture, shape and color."
Based on the Hyundai Veloster Turbo, the Veloster C3 Roll-Top Concept is equipped with a 201-horsepower, turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine.
2013 Hyundai Veloster Summary, Photos & Specs
2012 Hyundai Veloster Ratings
Hyundai Car & Truck Ratings