Volkswagen's Atlas Basecamp Concept shows what can be done with the German automaker's full-size SUV and aftermarket components.
New York City doesn’t exactly inspire visions of camping and mountain biking, but Volkswagen of America Inc. setting up its new Atlas Basecamp Concept in the Big Apple for the NY Auto Show next week.
The concept showcases a few of the ways that the Atlas can be enhanced for outdoorsy types, in this case bike trail seekers. With a custom body, lift kit, custom wheels, all-terrain tires, roof rack with bike mounts, and LED light bars, the Atlas Basecamp Concept is perfect for mountain bikers seeking challenging trails.
The Basecamp Concept was developed by Alex Earle, Exterior Design manager at the Volkswagen Design Center California and an 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.”
Aimed at mountain bikers looking for challenging trails, the Basecamp Concept shows what can be done with the VW Atlas.
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The concept, which is an Atlas SEL Premium, 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 putting 276 horsepower and an eight-speed transmission, paired with Volkswagen 4Motion all-wheel drive with Drive Mode Selection.
To give it an off-road look, VW slapped a set of fifteen52 Traverse MX Concept wheels on the Basecamp Concept. The wheels are also making their debut in NY and are expected go into series production at fifteen52 this fall. The wheels are wrapped in 265/70R17 all-terrain tires helping with the go-anywhere look of the vehicle.
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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 VW Atlas Basecamp Concept offers a look at the aftermarket upgrades for the ute.
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.
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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.