New U.K. Automaker Debuts Super SUV

British Formula One driver Johnny Herbert poses with the Eterniti Hemera. Herbert won three Grand Prix races during his 10-year career as an F1 driver.

British Formula One driver Johnny Herbert poses with the Eterniti Hemera. Herbert won three Grand Prix races during his 10-year career as an F1 driver.

FRANKFURT, Germany — London-based Eterniti Motors debuted what it is calling the world’s first super SUV, the Hemera, at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.

The prototype Hemera shown in Frankfurt closely resembles the anticipated final-production version. Only the body made its debut while the interior will be introduced later this year.

The Hemera’s 4.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine will crank out 620 horsepower and reach top speeds in excess of 180 mph. Lightweight carbon-composite body panels enhance the vehicle's agility and handling. Its chassis is rebuilt from the VW Group’s latest-generation large SUV frame. It also features a full-length glass sunroof.

The rear cabin will be laid out like the back of a fully-stocked limousine, featuring independently operated electric-powered reclining rear seat with individual temperature controls, and two iPads with wireless keyboards and a chiller for drinks.

The completed model will arrive in soon-to-open Eterniti-owned showrooms in London in 2012 and in Tokyo and Taipei by 2013. A hub in Hong Kong also is slated to open in 2012 per a company-issued statement, and a center in China is expected to open in 2013. No information on U.S. availability is obtainable at this time.

Prices have yet to be determined, but Eterniti Motors has projected a base price of £150,000 ($236,670).

Read more about the Eterniti Motors Hemera super SUV here.

Source: JustLuxe