Right-hook GMC Hummer EVs to be available in Oz

GMC’s Hummer EV line of battery electric heavy-duty 4x4 vehicles has been in production since 2021… in left-hand drive alone.

But now, converted right-hand drive vehicles will be available Down Under from Australian-owned Sri Lankan-based Autogroup International which has ISO 9001:2015 Quality Assurance on its vehicles that are converted to ADR (Australian Design Rules) standards.

UAE-based (formerly in Sri Lanka) Global Conversions also has ISO 9001:2015 Quality Assurance on its offering and isin the process of  attaining ADR compliance.

Both companies’ business models are similar – converting big American-made SUVs, pick-ups and muscle cars from left- to right-hand drive – offering another choice for buyers in the 77 countries and territories that remain right-hand drive.

Global Conversions spruiks it “specialises in left to right hand drive conversions” placing a focus on big American vehicles, while Autogroup International says it is “the global leader in left- to right-hand drive conversion of American SUVs, pickup trucks and muscle cars for over 20 years”.

Details of the GMC Hummer EVs converted by Global Conversions and Autogroup International are light on, apart from the claims made by each organisation’s boss.

“The right-hand drive Hummer EV SUV stands as a flagship offering, assuring fans and potential buyers alike of its exceptional calibre and the electrifying future of the iconic Hummer brand,” said Autogroup International CEO and co-chairman Rob Hill.

Mr Hill said the re-engineering process begins with “meticulous vehicle inspection and research” followed by an “intricate design and engineering phase”.

A team of skilled engineers – who specialise in various aspects of the conversion process, including mechanical, electrical, and plastics engineering, as well as reverse engineering and prototyping – oversee every step of the process.

Mr Hill said Autogroup International’s engineering and R&D teams delivered the world’s first right-hand drive conversion of the Toyota Tundra Hybrid, the Ford F-150 Lighting, and now the Hummer EV SUV….

The company says it caters to a diverse clientele, shipping converted vehicles to a global market spanning over 40 countries, adding that customisation options are “vast”, allowing customers to tailor their vehicles with innovative features like Watts to Freedom mode and Crabwalk mode, enhancing the driving experience to suit personal preferences.

Converted from the standard US-spec’ model, the Autogroup International Hummer EV offers 620kW of power, a claimed 0-100km/h time of “under 3.5 seconds” and a driving range of 530km.

It is also fitted with an Infinity Roof with transparent sky panels, next-gen technology including Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system, GM’s Ultium battery, regen’ on demand, and one-pedal driving.

Global Conversions chairman Suresh Edirisinghe said the recent conversion of the Hummer EV exemplifies his company’s dedication to excellence.

“The Hummer EV has been meticulously tested and validated for functionality, safety, and performance, the converted vehicle sets new standards in the industry,” he said.

“Our goal is to complete the conversion of the Hummer EV to right-hand drive in 27 days or less, ensuring seamless integration and meticulous attention to detail as we prioritise precision and efficiency.

“Transitioning operations from Sri Lanka to Ras Al-Khaimah (UAE) was a strategic move aimed at expanding the company’s international presence and facilitating easier access for customers worldwide.

Earlier this month, Global Conversions handed over the keys to its right-hand drive Hummer EV customer, with Mr Edirisinghe saying he was “thrilled by the milestone”.

“This accomplishment opens up new possibilities for the automotive industry, and we look forward to undertaking many more ground-breaking projects in the future,” he continued.

“We are incredibly proud to offer the right-hand drive vehicle in over 77 countries, including Australia, South Africa, India, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan, New Zealand, Seychelles, Singapore, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

“More Hummers are being prepped for conversion as we speak,” he concluded.