Hummer models were known for their rugged off-road capabilities. The Hummer brand was launched in 1992 as a civilian version of the military Humvee. It was launched by AM General. General Motors acquired the Hummer brand in 1998 and expanded the lineup.
Hummer production was shut down in 2010 during General Motors’s bankruptcy. But, the brand came back in 2020 as an electric model under the GMC automobile company. Hummer has a dedicated following, especially among celebrities, because of its bold, utilitarian design.
The first Hummer has launched decades ago. Here are the 4 oldest Hummer models ever designed.
Oldest Hummers in The World
4. Hummer HX Concept
Launched year: 2008
Production years: Never reached production
Still in use?: No
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Hummer HX Concept was a preview launched in 2008 of a potentially smaller and more affordable Hummer model. The HX concept never reached production. However, it featured a more compact and lightweight design compared to the larger Hummer models.
The HX Concept was supposed to compete with the Jeep Wrangler. It had a similar off-road capability in a smaller package. The HX Concept was meant to diversify Hummer’s lineup and appeal to a wider audience.
Did You Know?Â
Though the HX never reached production, its design inspired the Hummer HX and HXT electric vehicles by MEV, which acquired the HX brand rights.
3. Hummer H3
Launched year: 2005
Production years: 2005 to 2010
Still in use?: No
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Hummer H3 was launched in 2005 and produced in 2010. It was the smallest and most affordable model in the Hummer lineup. The H3 was based on the Chevrolet Colorado platform and had a more practical and fuel-efficient option than the larger H1 and H2.
Even though H3 was smaller in size, its off-road capabilities were still impressive. It had optional features like locking differentials and large off-road tires.
The H3 helped expand the Hummer brand to a wider audience. But ultimately, it also faced the same criticisms of poor fuel economy and excessive size as the other models.
Hummer H3 SUV and HT3 pickup were launched in 2006 and 2009, respectively. However, both models were discontinued in 2010.
Did You Know?Â
The Hummer H3 was the only Hummer model to be produced outside the United States, with some units manufactured in South Africa and Russia.
2. Hummer H2
Launched year: 2002
Production years: 2002 to 2009
Still in use?: No
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Hummer H2 was launched in 2002 and produced till 2009. It is meant to be the more affordable and accessible version of the H1. The Hummer H2 was based on a modified Chevrolet Tahoe platform. It also shared many components with other GM trucks.
Hummer H2 is less capable when it comes to off-road than the H1. But, the H2 still had good off-road abilities and a distinctive Hummer design. The H2 became a popular choice for those who wanted the Hummer brand but didn’t need the extreme off-road capabilities of the H1.
Hummer H2 SUV and SUT were launched in 2003 and 2004, respectively. But they stopped production in 2009.
Did You Know?Â
Despite its large size and poor fuel efficiency, the Hummer H2 could tow up to 6,700 pounds.
1. Hummer H1
Launched year: 1992
Production years: 1992 to 2006
Still in use?: No
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Hummer H1 was launched in 1992 and produced until 2006. It is the first civilian version of the military Humvee. The Hummer H1 is known for its massive size, impressive off-road capabilities, and high fuel consumption.
It is designed to be as capable as the military Humvee. The Hummer H1 has a body-on-frame construction, four-wheel drive, and portal axles for increased ground clearance. The H1 was a status symbol for celebrities and the wealthy. The military-inspired design is why it was in so much demand.
Did You Know?Â
The first two Hummer H1s sold were purchased by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who helped popularize the brand.
Conclusion
The Hummer vehicles focused on the rugged, military-inspired design. Hummer brand is known for its massive size, poor fuel economy, and off-road capabilities. It has faced a lot of criticism for its impact on the environment.
Hummer brand was discontinued in 2010. Almost a decade later, General Motors revived it in 2020 as an electric sub-brand under the GMC nameplate. They focus on sustainable mobility. The new GMC Hummer EV models have zero-emission performance and advanced off-road technologies.
The Hummer has come a long way. Let’s see where it goes next!
