Las Vegas – The South Korean motor company showcased a car that can climb up to five feet, keep its passengers completely and reach highway speeds at CES 2019.

The concept car can activate robotic legs to walk at 3mph (5km/h) over rough terrain. able to climb a 5ft (1.5m) wall and jump a 5ft gap. The Hyundai Elevate could be useful for emergency rescues following natural disasters, it said. It is part of a project exploring “beyond the range of wheels”.

The concept has been in development for three years and was unveiled at the CES technology fair in Las Vegas.

“When a tsunami or earthquake hits, current rescue vehicles can only deliver first responders to the edge of the debris field. They have to go the rest of the way by foot,” said Hyundai vice-president John Suh.

“Elevate can drive to the scene and climb right over flood debris or crumbled concrete.”

Mr Suh also suggested that wheelchair users could be collected via the vehicles, which could “walk” up to the front door of a building with step-only access.

Prof David Bailey, from Aston Business School, said: “Often car companies bring out lots of concepts which may or may not make it into production but it’s great to think in new ways about mobility. (BBC)