The Rebranded Chevy Colorado Might Be the Unusual Offspring of the GM-Hyundai Partnership.

      Hyundai currently offers one pickup truck in the U.S.—the Santa Cruz—and may soon introduce more, according to a report from Reuters. The publication suggests that with assistance from General Motors, Hyundai could soon market rebranded versions of the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups in North America. In exchange, Hyundai would supply GM with electric commercial vans, creating an intriguing scenario that seems almost too strange to be true.

      Documents reviewed by Reuters indicate that Hyundai plans to manufacture electric vans, initially in South Korea, to be marketed under its own name as well as GM's. There are discussions regarding the possibility of Hyundai producing the vans in North America by 2028, either through a new factory, an expanded existing facility, or by partnering with an external manufacturer. Additionally, the two companies are in talks about collaborating on chipsets, battery technology, and battery materials.

      The most intriguing aspect of the report claims Hyundai could offer versions of the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. It remains unclear whether these trucks would simply receive a new badge or if Hyundai will utilize GM’s platforms and technologies while creating its own designs for the body and interior. Could Hyundai potentially market the Colorado as its own while offering the upscale GMC Canyon under the Genesis brand? Regardless, it seems Hyundai will need to negotiate if it wishes to pursue this, as GM reportedly isn’t currently considering offering its trucks for rebadging.

      When I contacted Hyundai for a statement, a representative said, “Hyundai Motor and General Motors signed an agreement in September 2024 to discuss potential collaboration in key strategic areas. Discussions are ongoing; nothing has been finalized at this point.”

      A spokesperson from GM provided a similar response: “Both companies are continuing to explore potential collaboration opportunities. We do not have anything to announce at this moment.”

      If these agreements come to fruition, they would introduce another contender in the competitive midsize pickup truck market while providing GM with a new commercial van to eventually replace the outdated but still popular Chevy Express. This partnership could also assist both brands in navigating the challenges posed by global economic instability and increasing competition from Chinese EV manufacturers. However, it’s uncertain whether GM will be willing to share its prized pickup lines with another automaker.

      Moreover, just imagine how unusual they would appear with a prominent H on the grille!

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