Hyundai has transformed its Veloster hatchback into the hopped-up Velocity SEMA concept. Upgrades are plentiful but what we’re most excited about are the engine upgrades by racing outfit Cosworth. The Velocity concept is a joint venture between the design and engineering divisions of Hyundai. The car will be shown at the SEMA show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30.

Cosworth's powertrain is upgraded include the pistons, rods, turbo, intercooler, intake manifold and the fuel management system. This allows for an output of more than 400 horsepower, according to Hyundai, and 350 pound-feet of torque. The exhaust is upgraded by CPR Fabrication for better breathing and more sound.

Photo gallery: SEMA 2012 preview

From outside, the Velocity looks like a SEMA car. It gets a big wing and 19-inch wheels from HRE. But the graphics package is surprisingly subtle for the show. The Velocity Hatchi body kit adds front- and rear-braking ducts, lift-reducing rear diffuser, integrated front spoiler, side skirts and a racing number design motif in white and gray.

Bilstein added the monotube shocks while Kuhmo shod the wheels with Ecsta SPT summer tires. Brembo slows things down with four-piston brakes and two-piece rotors. Inside, the Velocity houses Sparco racing seats and a custom Katzkin suede and leather interior. The roll bar was done by CPR. Race Keeper installed the video acquisition system for keeping race laps and storing data.

Most of these SEMA concepts are just fun exercises, and almost none will go into production. But it’s always fun to see what can happen when price and profitability go out the window and designers are just concerned with creating something that’s cool.

-- Jake Lingeman