Hyundai Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept: LA Auto Show

Hyundai has unveiled a convertible Veloster Concept – the Hyundai Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept – at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

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Hyundai does tend to do interesting concepts, and if they’re heading for production they do manage to carry through much of what’s on offer. But if the Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept we’ll eat our tarpaulins.

Why tarpaulins? Because the rolling roof on this Veloster – which rolls backwards and forwards – is made from the side tarpaulin used on an HGV. For some reason. And the boot floor and the back of the seats is covered in bits of recycled skate boards. For some other reason. Or maybe the same reason.

The raison d’etre of the Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept is to carry a fixed-gear bike (the inspiration for the concept) which fits in the open back when the roof is rolled and the tailgate dropped. The rolled roof concept allows Hyundai to keep the Veloster’s shape (and third door) intact, and the tailgate and rolling roof allows all manner of things to be shoved in the back.

The odd trimming of the exterior is inspired by the fixed-wheel bike customising culture (who knew?) with a mis-match of low-cost trim items – door mirror covers, wheel covers – being easily changed for a new look (which is why the Veloster in the photos looks like it’s got a spacesaver on the back). Under the bonnet is Hyundai’s regular North American Veloster Turbo with 201 horses and 195lb/ft of torque.

The Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept is funky and different and shows Hyundai has a mind of its own. Even if we’re not exactly sure what’s lurking in that mind.