The Hyundai Boulder is moving closer to production after newly published design patent drawings revealed a production-ready version of the off-road SUV. First uncovered by MotorTrend, the patent offers the clearest look yet at the vehicle Hyundai has already described as a preview of a future body-on-frame SUV expected before the end of the decade.
Patent Reveals Production-Oriented Design
The Hyundai Boulder made its debut as a concept at this year’s New York Auto Show, where it stood out with its rugged styling and off-road-focused appearance. Hyundai later confirmed the concept previews a production off-roader built on the company’s first-ever body-on-frame platform.
New design patent drawings published by India’s IPO show that the production model remains largely faithful to the original concept while incorporating several changes aimed at production.
The patent illustrations retain the Boulder Concept’s upright proportions, squared-off body, wide fenders, short overhangs, and rugged overall silhouette.
Production Details Replace Concept Styling
While the overall design remains familiar, several features have been revised for production. The front end adopts a simpler grille and bumper design, and the lighting elements appear smaller than those shown on the concept.
The large off-road tires remain, but they are paired with more conventional wheels. The roof rack and integrated light bar also appear more production-ready, while the exterior bodywork features trim designed for real-world use.
Hyundai and Kia Both Listed on the Patent
The patent identifies both Hyundai and Kia as applicants, suggesting the design and its underlying platform could eventually be shared between the two brands.
That aligns with Hyundai Motor Group’s broader strategy to develop an entire family of ladder-frame vehicles rather than a single standalone SUV.
New Platform Will Support Multiple Models
Hyundai has said the Boulder is intended to be the first model in a larger lineup of body-on-frame vehicles.
The new platform will underpin both the Boulder SUV and a midsize Hyundai pickup truck. Company executives have also indicated that additional models are being considered for Hyundai, Kia, and potentially Genesis.
The pickup is intended to compete with the Toyota Tacoma, while the SUV is aimed at buyers seeking dedicated off-road capability.
Flexible Powertrain Strategy
Hyundai says the new platform is being engineered to support multiple powertrain options. These include gasoline engines, hybrid systems, plug-in hybrids, fully electric powertrains, and future range-extender technology.
Production Timeline Still Undisclosed
Hyundai has not announced when the production version of the Boulder will be unveiled. However, the publication of the design patent indicates the project continues to move toward production as the company expands into the body-on-frame off-road segment.
