Hurley and Chevy join forces to design the perfect car for surfers
Surfers, take note:
Chevrolet and Hurley have joined forces to design the ultimate vehicle for surfers. The Colorado Z71 Hurley concept car was unveiled at the 2016 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show yesterday (31 October 2016) and surfing forums and enthusiasts have already been sharing and talking it on social media.
In a press release Chevrolet claim the Colorado Z71 to be the ‘ultimate wave wanderer’ as well as having the ability to serve as a mobile beach commander.
A custom surfboard rack, storage systems and water-resistant seat covers made from advanced ventiprene (similar to what wetsuits are made from, for those who don’t know) are just some of the features that have surfers everywhere talking.
“Colorado is a lifestyle enabler and the Hurley concept demonstrates the personalisation possibilities for one of the most thrilling sports,” said Jessica Rogers, Colorado marketing manager. “With Chevrolet Accessories parts, the sky — and the surf — is the limit when it comes to tailoring the Colorado to your work or recreation interests.”
The collaboration design features a concept lifted suspension, 17 inch Chevrolet Accessories wheels and Goodyear DuraTrac all-terrain tyres for the best beach-hunt mission.
“This concept is all about functionality,” said Ryan Hurley, creative director for Hurley. “When we discussed the project with Chevrolet, we didn’t want just a truck with our logo on it. It had to offer solutions for the challenges surfers face at remote locations and that’s exactly what it delivers.”
“The solutions start with the custom carrier system that mounts a pair of Pyzel surfboards on the roof, while a custom Bimini-style bedcover provides shade on a sunny beach. There’s also a bed-mounted Thule rack that serves as a wetsuit drying rack and storage for drinking-water containers.”
As far as exterior colour goes, they’re calling it ‘Seafoam Green’ and Hurley fans will be pretty stoked to know that it’s accented with subtle, tone-on-tone Hurley graphics and skidplates featuring the Hurley logo.
A number of Chevrolet Accessories lend functional style, including:
- Off-road lights
- Sport assist steps
- Illuminated black bowtie kit
Inside, the ventiprene seat material offers a breathable, quick-drying surface that’s perfect for jumping into the vehicle with wet boardshorts.
“It’s an amazing material that’s perfect for this application,” said Hurley. “You’ll never worry about hopping in your vehicle with wet clothing.”
The Khaki Green and Sand Dune-colored material is also used on the armrests and door panels. The rest of the cabin is accented with Khaki Green and Sand Dune trim and green accent stitching. The Hurley logo is integrated in the headrests, sill plates and floor liners.
The Colorado is equipped with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot so beachgoers can stay connected to weather and surf reports.
Finally, the Colorado Z71 Hurley concept also features a Chevrolet Performance concept exhaust system to complement the performance of the all-new 3.6L V-6 engine that debuts in the 2017 Colorado. Featuring direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), it’s rated at 308 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque, enabling 7,000 pounds of max trailering. It’s also paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
Also read: KIA unveils four all-new customised vehicles at SEMA show
Production Z71 models also features an automatic locking rear differential, for greater traction off the highway, and a transfer case skidplate — another piece of protection when the pavement ends.
“Whether you’re on the job or on the lookout for the next wave, Colorado Z71’s versatility proves liberating,” said Rogers. “Load up your gear and hit the road!”
The Colorado Z71 Hurley concept joins approximately 20 additional Chevrolet models at the SEMA Show. Follow the action at ChevySEMA.com, #CHEVYSEMA and @ChevroletPerformance on Instagram and Facebook.
Source: Chevrolet America