HUMMER H3 Goes Global

Press Release

Redesigned and reengineered

The HUMMER line goes global with the introduction of the HUMMER H3. Developed for markets around the world and built in South Africa, the H3 adds unique styling features to the brand's iconic shape, an all-new interior design and a 180 kW (244 hp) 3.7 l Vortec inline 5-cylinder engine with, for the first time on a HUMMER, a choice of manual or automatic transmissions for the full-time four-wheel-drive system. A right-hand drive version will be available summer 2007.

In the beginning HUMMER was a vehicle in a class by itself, with extreme style and capability, unmatched and untouched by the competition. The latest chapter in the story is the HUMMER H3, designed in response to demand from global markets for a luxurious everyday driving vehicle, offering the legendary HUMMER performance.
H3 packs authentic HUMMER style and capability into more compact dimensions. Compared to the HUMMER H2, the H3 is 39 mm shorter in length, 171 mm shorter in height and 73 mm narrower. Roughly the same length as a larger family sedan, H3 can navigate city traffic, yet still deliver HUMMER’s trademark crawling and climbing capability.

A global design team re-designed and re-engineered hundreds of areas in comparison with the American-market H3. A number of new style items are exclusive to the Hummer H3, to enable the model’s global homologation for sales around the world.

Headlights have an oval design with a chrome surround. Clear lenses with amber bulbs, specially designed side blinker lamps and a unique tail lamp design were also required to meet international lighting requirements. The external radii were changed on mirrors, front fascias and tow hooks. Additional fender flares were added to cover the tyres, which must be inside the body in some countries. A redesigned rear bumper contains a new Rear Protection Under Run Device and rear fog lamps.

The HUMMER H3’s iconic design continues to make it one of the most easily recognisable vehicles on the road. The distinctive HUMMER 7-slot chrome louvered grille and protective aluminium front skid plate with embossed H3 logo, flat flush windshield and side windows, low glass-to-metal ratio, 16 x 7.5-inch 7-spoke aluminium wheels and Goodyear Wrangler RT/S all-terrain tyres with a 32-inch outside diameter mark the vehicle apart from anything else.

The HUMMER H3 is powered by the GM Vortec 3.7 liter, inline five-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing. Specifically designed for this type of vehicle, it delivers 180 kW (244 horsepower) at 5600 rpm and 328 Nm of torque at 4600 rpm.

H3 is the first HUMMER ever to offer the choice of a manual or an automatic transmission. In addition to the Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, the first-ever for HUMMER, offers ultimate driver control.

At the heart of the HUMMER H3’s capability is its electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system. The system is augmented with traction control, an optional rear locking differential and StabiliTrak stability control, which is offered as standard. The H3 can ford 407 mm of water at 32 km/h or 610-mm streams at an 8 km/h pace, and climb 407-mm vertical steps or rocks.

This off-road performance is also aided by the “wheel at each corner” design giving a maximum approach angle of 37.5 degrees and maximum departure angle of 34.6 degrees. These approach and departure angles permit the H3 to drive into a hole and back out again, without getting hung up in front or rear.

The H3’s more compact size provides manoeuvrability advantages, such as a 11.3m turning circle, making equally easy work of parking manoeuvres or tight turns when off-roading. A 216-mm ground clearance and maximum breakover angle of 23.5 degrees make it possible to clear large obstacles in off-road driving.

In addition to its uncompromised off-road capabilities, the H3 also provides the refinement, comfort and convenience required for enjoyable driving. It offers premium options such as heated leather seats (standard on Luxury and Adventure), a large electric sliding sunroof and numerous customized accessories.

The H3 features a new, inviting and modern interior, blending premium cues with high quality craftsmanship. Upscale touches include a chrome H3 emblem in the centre of the perforated, leather-wrapped and stitched steering wheel; bright-accented instrumentation; brushed, machine-finished trim plates; chrome door release handles; chrome bezel for the automatic transmission shifter.

Until recently, HUMMER had primarily focused its attention on establishing a strong presence in North America. GM acquired the brand in late 1999 and since then HUMMER has grown from a brand selling roughly 1,000 vehicles per year in 2000 to more than 60,000 in 2005.

The H3 made its debut in North America in May 2005 and has helped make HUMMER the fastest growing automotive brand in the United States. The H3 has made the brand more accessible with its smaller, more efficient package, while still retaining the characteristics that make a HUMMER unique: iconic design and unparalleled off-road performance.

In addition to growth in the United States, HUMMER has shown significant expansion around the globe. In Europe, where Kroymans Corporation has the exclusive rights to import and distribute HUMMER vehicles in 27 European countries, sales have more than doubled since 2005. The H3 is a specific response to this customer demand. In the first eleven months of 2006, 1.712 HUMMERS were sold, compared to 548 vehicles sold in 2005.

While all previous HUMMER H3s have been assembled in GM's North American facility in Shreveport, Louisiana, the new international H3, intended for all markets outside of North America, is being assembled at the Struandale Assembly Facility in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The $100 million investment in the plant has been described as one of the most important milestones in the history of GM in South Africa.

“With the assembly of HUMMER H3 in South Africa, we take the next important step to grow the brand around the world." says Martin Walsh, General Manager, HUMMER. “HUMMER is an international phenomenon, quickly rising to be one of the fastest growing, most recognisable, premium brands in the world. Our commitment to building vehicles with superior off-road capabilities and daring styling is the key to our long-term success. H3 is a testament to our commitment."

HUMMER H3 vehicles assembled in South Africa will be exported to markets in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The H3 will be available for sale in Europe in April 2007. Production of a right-hand drive version will begin in the second quarter of 2007 for export into right-hand markets in Europe, Australia and Asia, as well as for local sale in South Africa.

Design

HUMMER design is iconic and the H3’s looks make it instantly identifiable as nothing other than a HUMMER. It’s a matter of form following function. Features like its wide track, short overhangs and huge tyres provide stability, outstanding ground clearance and quick rock-climbing capability in off-road driving.

The H3 features the hallmark HUMMER design with flat, chiselled surfaces, upright flat windshield and windows, high metal-to-glass proportions, signature seven-slot louvered grille and pronounced fender flares. Power and strength emanate from its cube-like metal billet form.

In addition to the keynote HUMMER features, a number of new style items set the H3 apart. They are exclusive to the H3 to enable global homologation. Additional fender flares cover the tyres, which must be inside the bodywork in some countries and the external radii were changed on mirrors, front fascias and tow hooks, while the interior architecture of the A-pillar is also amended.

Headlights have an oval design with a chrome surround. Clear lenses with amber bulbs, specially designed side blinker lamps and a unique tail lamp design were also required to meet international lighting requirements. A headlamp leveling system is standard and a redesigned rear bumper with standard trailer hitch and enlarged step pad, is combined with a new Rear Protection Under Run Device and rear fog lamps.

Large tyres are another staple of HUMMER style, clearly signalling its capability. The H3 features standard P265/75R16 Goodyear Wrangler RT/S all-terrain tyres, which have a 32-inch outside diameter.

A large rear swing gate encompasses fixed glass, standard rear wiper, defogger and full-size spare tire. The swing gate-mounted spare with lockable spare tyre cover embossed with HUMMER, is a HUMMER first and enhances interior cargo space.

Among other exterior design highlights are a highly protective aluminium front skid plate; hefty, stamped-steel front and rear bumper bars; a composite front fascia, with “HUMMER” moulded into the driver’s side; standard front tow hooks; and a welded-on rear bumper recovery hook.

The HUMMER H3 is available with the choice of seven external colours: Black, Ocean Blue Metallic, Yellow, Birch White, Lunar Gray Metallic, Victory Red or Arctic Silver Metallic.

The interior design of the HUMMER H3 represents the start of an entirely new design theme for HUMMER. From the outset it was designed to be an everyday driving vehicle. That strongly influenced the design, with comfort and intuitive function being the key factors.

There is generous front and rear headroom, 1.031 mm and 1,013 mm respectively. The H3’s interior design is expressive and refined with a distinct HUMMER influence. The individual front bucket seats with drop down arm rest can be specified with optional heating.

The interior fittings are marked by tight gaps and flush surfaces, and the tone is lightened with the use of bright trim accents and the use of colour. Headliner systems are trimmed in a tailored, tight-weave fabric that is always a light neutral value to enhance the perception of roominess in the vehicle. The pillar mouldings are finished in the same colour, but with a subtle, fine-speckled plastic and a complimentary texture designed to harmonise with the headliner.

H3 customers have a total of five choices for interior colour combinations – All Ebony and Ebony with Light Cashmere seat cushion inserts for the standard cloth seats. All Ebony with Pewter piping, Ebony with Morocco-toned seat cushion inserts and piping, or light Cashmere with Ebony piping, for the leather trim.

The centre stack, flush fit to the instrument panel, is finished in a material called Nissha. This new material carries a metallic finish for a premium look, but is resistant to light reflection and smudges for excellent wear. An emerging material for automobiles, Nissha has previously been used mostly in the electronics industry. This material is also the main component used in the gauge cluster. The instrument panel is positioned to ensure an optimal view of the road, with easy-to-read liquid crystal displays and a driver information centre which includes four levels of controls arranged horizontally for easy use.

Other premium touches include a perforated, leather-wrapped and stitched steering wheel and automatic transmission shift handle. The door release handles and automatic transmission shifter bezel are chromed. The large 916 mm x 624 mm power sunroof offered on the H3 can be opened, closed or set to the “vent” (tilt) position with a single control.

The standard easy-opening, one-piece swing gate makes for convenient loading and unloading of the 1,577 liter maximum cargo capacity (2nd-row seat down). With the second row of 60:40 split folding seats in position, capacity remains a generous 835 liter.

Tough, durable materials protect cargo area sidewalls, while the rear storage area utilises Tufflor rubberised flooring. This material is superior to traditional carpets, mats or rubber floors in its resistance to scratches and damage.

Engine and Transmission

The new HUMMER H3 is powered by the inline five-cylinder Vortec 3.7-litre engine, fitted with dual overhead cams, electronic throttle control and variable valve timing. Specifically designed for this type of vehicle, it delivers 180 kW (244 horsepower) at 5600 rpm and 328 Nm of torque at 4600 rpm. 90% of the engine’s torque available between 2000 rpm and 6000 rpm. The H3 reaches a peak fuel economy of up to 11.0 l/100km.

The Vortec engine provides the H3 with excellent power and control for off-roading, with comfortable and capable on-road characteristics, including acceleration that equals the V-8 powered H2 in most driving conditions. The Vortec engine’s advanced technologies, including counter-rotating balance shafts, help minimize noise, vibration and harshness.

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) with Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) eliminates throttle cable and provides outstanding throttle response both on- and off-road. Coil-on-Plug ignition provides high energy, a precise spark for low emissions and also eliminates spark plug wires. An Oil Life Monitoring System calculates oil life based on a number of variables, including engine speed, operating temperature, load or rpm variance and period of operation at any given load and temperature to extend service intervals.

H3 is the first HUMMER to offer the choice of a manual or an automatic transmission. In addition to the Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, a five-speed manual transmission, the first-ever for HUMMER, is a fun option for the serious off-road performance crowd, as it offers the ultimate driver control.

At the heart of the HUMMER H3’s capability is its electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system which augments both the manual or automatic gearboxes. The Borg-Warner two-speed electrically controlled full-time 4WD system has a robust 2.64:1 low-range gear reduction for highly controlled, off-road obstacle climbing. It can also be optionally specified with an ultra-low 4.03:1 ratio for ultimate obstacle-climbing control. This is the most aggressive transfer ratio that GM has ever put on a production vehicle.

The four-wheel drive system has four choices of operating modes: 4High-range Open is used for optimum highway performance and comfort under normal road conditions. 4High-range Locked, allows torque to be transferred to the front or rear wheels as needed. 4Low-range Locked, is used for severe off-pavement use, such as crawling over large rocks or logs, or deep sand or snow, and there is a neutral setting that is used for flat-towing if required.

A fifth operating mode is available with the optional, electronic, driver-selectable full-locking rear differential. With the differential locked, and the optional 4.03:1 low-range transfer case gearing, the H3 is capable of crawling and climbing power every bit as capable as the legendary HUMMER H1 and H2. Meanwhile on-road performance is enhanced by the standard StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system, which enhances safety, stability and control on all roads.

Chassis, Ride and Handling

While functionality and off-road performance are key features of the HUMMER H3, it also provides a surprisingly smooth, comfortable ride, along with responsive handling and braking control for daily driving. Key chassis features contribute to this combination of smoothness and control, both on- and off-road.

These include a fully welded ladder-type frame, with a modular, three-piece design that incorporates fully boxed components for outstanding strength and stiffness. It is combined with an independent front short/long arm (SLA) torsion bar suspension and “Hotchkiss” design multi-leaf, semi-elliptic, dual stage leaf spring rear suspension. They provide both excellent on-highway comfort and outstanding off-road capability.

A highly sophisticated standard power rack-and-pinion steering system, with a three-bushing design and a 17:1 ratio, contributes to a manoeuvrable 11.3-m kerb-to-kerb turning circle, about the same as a compact sedan. Meanwhile, electro-hydraulic four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Dynamic Rear Proportioning, give quick, controlled stopping power.

Stability and performance are further enhanced by a standard-fit single-wheel, full-function traction control system. This uses a combination of engine intervention and brake management to provide impressive traction capability with as many as three wheels on a slippery surface.

GM’s sophisticated StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on the HUMMER H3. Partnered with the new brake and traction control systems, it provides more precise, controlled ABS stops, as well as enhanced traction/yaw stability.

StabiliTrak uses brake control to precisely manage the speed of each wheel as well as torque across the front and rear axles. Individual brake sensors at each wheel provide signals to the control module, enabling it to aggressively adjust brake pressure. The vehicle brake system provides torque-biasing to enhance traction and engine management as required to assist in controlling traction and yaw stability. The transfer case’s control algorithm has been integrated with the StabiliTrak and ABS systems to provide enhanced vehicle stability by managing the front-to-rear torque distribution.

StabiliTrak is always on and fully functional. It is automatically enabled, providing full stability, traction and ABS control, whenever the vehicle operates in forward gears. The system intervenes when it senses one or more of the wheels slipping or when the vehicle is not following the driver’s intended path. It detects slippage during braking or acceleration and automatically adjusts individual wheel brake pressure, engine torque and adjusts front to rear drive torque distribution, as required, to achieve optimal control.

The HUMMER H3 body and chassis structure also incorporates enhancements designed to help in crash protection, as well as a number of advanced safety systems to assist in both crash avoidance and protection. This includes a reinforced passenger compartment safety cage that helps provide protection in the event of side and frontal impacts.

The strong, rigid steel structure surrounds the passenger compartment, runs from the A-pillars to the roof rail, back to the D-pillars and includes the bottom rocker panels, underfloor longitudinals and frame. The all-steel body panels and exceptionally strong frame further help protect occupants in a collision. The fully welded, ladder-type frame optimizes crash performance, in addition to standing up to the rigorous off-road requirements.

To protect the chassis under the most arduous of off-road conditions, underbody protection incorporates four standard protective shields. These include a front skid plate; an oil pan skid plate that also protects the front axle; a transfer case shield and a fuel tank shield.

Equipment

HUMMER owners value the inherent strength and feeling of security their vehicles exude. The H3 fulfills that promise with features such as StabiliTrak electronic stability control, roof rail-mounted side curtain air bags, rollover protection system, and a stout vehicle structure. It is projected to earn top safety ratings for both the driver and passenger in front and side impacts.

Additional crash protection is provided by a standard frontal dual-stage air bag system. The H3 features the Passenger Sensing System, which uses weight-sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off as appropriate. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision.

In the event of a roll-over, standard roof rail-mounted, side curtain air bags drop down to the belt line to help provide head and rollover protection for the driver and front passenger. The rollover protection sensing system also helps protect occupants against impending rollovers by triggering side curtain air bags to increase the likelihood of occupant containment in a rollover event.

Three-point seatbelts are provided in all seating positions, along with the Child safety seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in the outer rear seats. Seat belt pretensioners help keep occupants in the proper position, reducing their likelihood of making contact with the inside of the vehicle.

In addition to its array of safety equipment, the HUMMER H3 contains a wide range of premium luxury fittings. H3 offers up to two different audio systems, beginning with a single-disc CD, MP3 disc playing ETR AM/FM stereo with seek/scan, auto tone control, speed-compensated volume, clock and 7-speaker Monsoon® system with subwoofer and amp.

As option an in-dash 6-disc CD changer with AM/FM stereo is offered. These are protected by a THEFTLOCK radio theft protection and PASSLock® anti-theft security system . As accessory a touch-screen DVD-based navigation radio is also available.

Remote keyless entry with two transmitters and panic button is also standard, while additional standard electronic features include power windows and door locks with lockout protection, power-adjustable manually folding rear-view mirrors and a self-dimming “electrochromic” inside rearview mirror with compass and outside temperature indicator. There are three 12-volt, covered auxiliary power outlets inside the vehicle, two in front, one in the cargo area.

Among the premium options available are heated leather seats, a large electric express open/close sliding sunroof, a DVD-based navigation radio and numerous customised HUMMER accessories. These include roof marker lights, bright and black roof rack crossbars, a chrome–plated fuel door constructed of solid metal, an under-bonnet engine-bay liner with H3 logo moulded splash guards, a hard cargo carrier, roof and tail-gate mounted carriers for bikes, skis, snowboards, or canoes.

Technology

While the HUMMER H3 is more compact and offers new levels of driver control and refinement on the road, it simply would not be a HUMMER if it didn’t deliver a class-leading performance off the road. As you might expect, it doesn’t disappoint.

Like all HUMMERS, the H3 delivers exceptional rock crawling and climbing performance. The H3 was engineered for off-road leadership among midsize SUVs, with an electronically controlled four-wheel drive system, traction control, an optional rear locking differential and StabiliTrak stability control.

The standard P265/75R16 Goodyear Wrangler RT/S all-terrain tyres have a 32-inch external diameter. They are larger than those found on any other midsize SUV and provide optimum traction and an opportunity for increased approach, departure and breakover angles.

Serious off-road performance is also aided by the “wheel at each corner” design giving a maximum approach angle of 37.5 degrees and maximum departure angle of 34.6 degrees. These approach and departure angles permit the H3 to drive into a hole and back out again, without getting hung up in front or rear.

The 216 mm ground clearance and maximum breakover angle of 23.5 degrees make it possible to clear large obstacles in off-road driving. Among its off-road credentials, the H3 can ford 407 mm of water at 32 km/h or 610-mm streams at an 8 km/h pace. The HUMMER H3 is equally at home making its way through deep sand or racing over sandy surfaces, or climbing 407-mm vertical steps or rocks.