Volkswagen put together a concept build for the New York International Auto Show specifically aimed at mountain bikers. The VW Atlas Basecamp concept consists of an off-road-modified VW Atlas pulling a HIVE EX compact expedition trailer.
VW says it designed this build “with endurance mountain biking in mind.” While it does have a sweet bike rack setup on it, to us it looks like a generally awesome base camp for any off-road outdoor adventure pursuit.
VW Atlas Basecamp Build
Under all that sexy, matte-finish Platinum Gray and Black Uni paint and orange accents, there is a VW Atlas SEL Premium SUV. While the Atlas is a midsize SUV, it offers seven seats and a massive amount of cargo room: 20.6-plus cubic feet.
This Atlas has a 276hp V6 under the hood and VW’s impressive 4Motion system, putting that power to all four wheels. The stock Atlas offers 8 inches of ground clearance, but the Atlas Basecamp should have about 10 inches. The height is raised 1.5 inches through an H&R lift kit with coil over springs. Additionally, it runs bigger 30.5-inch (265/70R17) all-terrain tires.
Those bigger tires are wrapped around preproduction fifteen52 Traverse MX wheels. You can expect to see these new wheels hit the market for a wide range of applications this fall.
The VW Atlas Basecamp Concept also has a custom Air Design body kit, front and rear LED light bars, and a Front Runner Slimline II roof rack with bike holders. Inside the Atlas is a number of protective interior add-ons from VW Accessories.
HIVE EX Trailer
Behind the tastefully and functionally modified VW Atlas is a HIVE EX compact expedition trailer. The trailer features matching wheels and tires to the Atlas but is otherwise unmodified. It doesn’t need much, however, as this lightweight U.S.-assembled trailer offers nearly all the creature comforts of home.
The HIVE EX trailer offers up a ton of great living space, both inside and out. Inside you’ll find a queen-size bed and tons of storage. Outside, under the pullout canopy, you’ll find a full-featured kitchenette. The trailer also features such luxuries as a portable toilet, hot shower, fridge/freezer, and a full 12V electrical system for charging up all your electronics and lighting up camp.
VW Adventure Basecamp
Many of us are on the search for the perfect daily driver that will also get us out on the big adventures we dream of. The Atlas Basecamp Concept is Volkswagen’s vision of that perfect vehicle.
The Atlas Basecamp is a roomy, technology-filled, off-road-capable platform. The HIVE EX is a comfortable, full-featured home on wheels. Hook it up after work on a Friday and roll up the mountains in no time.
You can check out the VW Atlas Basecamp Concept in person next week at the New York International Auto Show, where it will debut. It’s also scheduled to make an appearance at SEMA Show at the end of the year.
