First Look at the Jeep Hurricane Concept Vehicle

The Jeep Hurricane concept vehicle sounded impressive when they started up both of its HEMI engines as it stood behind the curtain at the 2005 NAIAS in Detroit. Jeep fans should be happy with this one, because it appears to be a vehicle that will go anywhere, anytime. And the name's a natural, because Chrysler's "turntable feature" lets this Jeep spin around in place like a top.

Two HEMI Engines

One in front, one in the rear, facing opposite of each other. Each 5.7-liter engine delivers 335 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque, or a total of 670 hp and 740 lb-ft torque.

The Hurricane can run on four, eight, twelve or sixteen cylinders, whatever the driver needs for the driving task ahead. And the Hurricane can go from 0-60 in less than five seconds.

Zero Turn Radius

Skid steer capability and toe steer give drivers the ability to turn both front and rear tires inward, allowing the vehicle to turn in a circle where it sits.

Two Four Wheel Steering Modes

There are two modes of four-wheel steering. The first, traditional mode has the rear tires turning in the opposite direction of the front tires to reduce the turning circle. The second mode allows the driver to turn all four wheels in the same direction for crab steering, letting the vehicle move sideways without changing the direction it is pointing.

One Piece, Carbon Fiber Body

The Hurricane's one-piece body is shaped of structural carbon fiber. The suspension and powertrain are mounted directly to the body. An aluminum spine runs under the body to connect the underside and to function as a skid plate system.

The vehicle is lightweight but high in strength. It has Jeep's signature seven-slot grille, two seats and no doors. Occupants are surrounded by exposed carbon fiber and polished aluminum.

It will be interesting to see how much of this concept's look--if any--eventually shows up in a production vehicle.

Now take a look at the Jeep Gladiator Concept Truck.