Volkswagen of America, Inc. is pleased to introduce the Atlas Basecamp Concept, which showcases a few of the many ways that the capable Volkswagen Atlas can be enhanced for trail seekers. Featuring a custom body, lift kit, custom wheels, all-terrain tires, roof rack with bike mounts, and LED light bars, the Atlas Basecamp Concept is ready for adventure.
The Basecamp Concept—designed with endurance mountain biking in mind—is the brainchild of Alex Earle, Exterior Design Manager at the Volkswagen Design Center California and avid cyclist. “The Basecamp Concept brings a go-anywhere attitude to the brand that is already synonymous with road-trip culture,” said Earle. “Whether you are taking on a series of challenging single-tracks with your favorite mountain bike or enjoying a relaxing evening under the night sky, the versatility of the Basecamp Concept provides ideal mobile solutions for just about any adventure.”
Using a Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium as the canvas, the Basecamp Concept is painted Platinum Gray and Black Uni with a matte finish and orange accents. The SEL Premium trim comes standard with a 3.6-liter VR6® engine making 276 hp and an eight-speed transmission, paired with Volkswagen 4Motion® all-wheel drive with Drive Mode Selection. A set of fifteen52 Traverse MX Concept wheels debut on the Basecamp Concept and are expected go into series production at fifteen52 this fall. The wheels are wrapped in 265/70R17 all-terrain tires.
Additional accessories on the Atlas Basecamp Concept include a custom body kit by Air Design, an H&R® lift kit with coil over springs that raise the ride height approximately 1.5 inches, a Front Runner® Slimline II roof rack system with bike holders, off-road LED light bars on the front and rear, as well as protective interior add-ons from Volkswagen Accessories.
The Basecamp Concept is shown with an off-road capable HIVE EX compact expedition trailer, featuring matching wheels and tires. Like the Atlas, the HIVE EX camper is assembled in the USA and built to take on the elements while providing ample comfort and space. Both lightweight and strong, the tow-behind camper is equipped with a queen-size bed, pullout canopy, and kitchenette, complete with a stove, a sink, and a refrigerator/ freezer combo that can operate on an optional 12-volt battery. Other integrated features include a self-contained water tank, propane tank, portable toilet, hot shower, and removable leveling jacks.
The Atlas Basecamp Concept can be viewed in person at the 2019 New York International Auto Show and the 2019 SEMA Show.