A military grade Hummer EV. The Humvee, which inspired the civilian Hummer H1, is an iconic symbol of the US military. The Hummer brand saw renewed interest with the launch of the electric Hummer, which was originally intended solely for civilians.
However, the unveiling of a military Hummer EV demonstrates a shift towards the use of electric vehicles in the military. Unlike previous Hummer vehicles, which were designed for military use before spawning civilian versions, the military Hummer EV comes as a transformation of a civilian vehicle to meet military needs.
The military version retains the core specifications of the civilian Hummer EV, such as the 212 kWh battery and motors capable of delivering 1,000 horsepower. Yet, it includes modifications such as a specialized frame for easier ingress and egress, potential fully armored versions or a flatbed variant, a stealthier exterior without the illuminated Hummer logo, and a fixture at the back for military equipment. The vehicle also has extensive underbody protection, considering the floor-mounted battery.
Other upgrades include high-performance shock absorbers, improved brakes, larger off-road tires, and modified front and rear bumpers for better maneuverability on rough terrain.
General Motors Defense asserts that the military Hummer EV can operate quietly and power other essential equipment. Notably, this military version isn’t planned to be made available for civilians.
The introduction of the military Hummer EV signifies the broader adoption of electric vehicles in various contexts, potentially fostering their use in military and other sectors globally.