Hyundai Elantra Zombie Survival Machine

The vast majority of concept cars we see nowadays are designed to inspire hope, cars that are progressive and kind to the environment. But Hyundai is hedging its bets with its latest killer car, banking on a post-apocalyptic future where a deadly zombie plague will see drivers fighting for their lives whenever they get behind the wheel.

Enter the Hyundai Elantra Coupe Zombie Survival Machine, a car that has everything drivers will need to eradicate brain-eating corpses that have risen from the grave.

Should the world be brought to its knees by a zombie virus/plague/evolutionary mutagen, Hyundai's Elantra Zombie Survival Machine will ensure safe passage between heavily defended bunkers, sporting a custom zombie "plow cow catcher" festooned with spikes.

Other upgrades to the base vehicle include armoured body panels, slatted window coverings, an electrically operated boot for easy access to high calibre weaponery, leg-slicing wheel spikes and several custom compartments for storing weapons.

Rally-type tyres are fitted for all-terrain driving, while a CB radio and PA system allow occupants to communicate with the outside world. Passengers can also shoot at zombies from up high without fear of being bitten, thanks to a modified moon roof.

Currently we only have sketches of the zombie-slaying automobile, which will make its debut at the world's largest comic book conference in San Diego on July 11, Comic Con, to celebrate the 100th issue of Robert Kirkman's best-selling zombie graphic novel, "The Walking Dead". Kirkman is responsible for the concept - see below for the design video.

The zombie sub-culture is hugely popular, growing in recent years to become a multi-billion dollar industry that includes movies, comics, TV shows, video games, even lunch boxes.

Though the car is unlikely to enter mass production any time soon, Hyundai says the Zombie Survival Machine was created to connect with Generation Y drivers.

"The Hyundai Undead program allows us to interact with hundreds of thousands of film, comic, TV and video game fans during this summer's ultimate pop culture event," said Steve Shannon, vice president of Marketing, Hyundai Motor America.

"We can't wait to unveil our custom Elantra Coupe Zombie Survival Machine, the ultimate car for The Walking Dead fans and anyone who wants to survive a zombie apocalypse."

Hyundai is not the only car maker to tap into popular sub-cultures. SsangYong attempted to target lovers of vampire culture by adding fangs to its Korando SUV.

Hyundai is also giving away a special edition Hyundai Elantra GT, wrapped in the cover of the 100th issue of The Walking Dead comic.