MAKING A SPLASH
New dog-friendly car for pampered pooches featuring luxury built-in shower and heated bed
The car comes with numerous features for dogs
A SWISH new dog-friendly car comes complete with a luxury built-in shower and a heated bed.
The “ultimate” car for canines also has a retractable ramp for easy access and a bespoke hairdryer, so you can really spoil your pampered pooch.
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Genesis, the luxury brand of Hyundai, created the glamorous concept car with features to make four-legged travel more luxurious.
Its “Genesis X Dog” is based on the GV70 Electrified SUV after recent studies found that dogs are more relaxed riding in electric than diesel cars.
Vehicle-to-load technology uses the car's battery to power a range of pooch-pampering tools, including the built-in electric shower.
A six-litre pressurised water tank is linked to the shower attachment, which is paired with an electric hairdryer so that spoiled hounds can be washed and dried after a long, muddy walk.
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The boot is upholstered in quilted vegan leather to match the car's interior and boasts a fully-padded, heated dog bed.
There is a wireless Bluetooth audio system while pet owners can use their phone to choose from 100 ambient lighting colours with blue and violet hues recommended as most soothing for mutts.
The lightweight, pull-out ramp is made of aluminium and has carbon-fibre telescopic tubes that are said to be durable over all terrains, should drivers venture off-road.
On the move, there is a personalised leather dog collar and matching safety harness to keep canines secure in their sanctuary.
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The shower attachment and hairdryer are stowed in waterproof pouches while non-slip surfaces are used across the bottom of the pod.
When not transporting their dog in the lap of luxury, owners can easily remove the entire rear boot module to free up space for luggage.
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For now, Genesis says that the X Dog concept is a “one-off” but it is thought some of the handy tools might eventually be available as add-on options.
The Korean company said: “The concept was created as a one-off accessory to showcase how dog owners could travel with their companion without sacrificing comfort.”
The X Dog concept is being displayed over the next two weeks by Genesis at its retail space in Battersea, south-west London.
The company will provide a dedicated area for visiting dogs with water bowls and beds available for tired pooches.
Other dog-friendly cars
Other cars have dog-friendly features that could also make your trip safer and more comfortable for your pet.
Skoda Superb Estate
The Czech brand has your dog in mind and offers a 'dog seatbelt' compatible with all of its current models.
This clips onto the normal seatbelt mount and keeps your dog in place when you're on the move.
And it's available in different sizes to suit dogs of all breeds.
Land Rover Defender
Land Rover offers its long-running 4x4 with a Pet Care and Access Pack which includes a ramp for easy entry and exit to the boot, a reversible boot liner, a metal grate to separate the boot compartment and even a built-in shower.
Mini Clubman estate
Mini is the only car maker that has received the charity Dog Trust's approval and is being classed as 'dog friendly'.
While the smaller models don't have enough room for your pet, the Clubman estate has plenty of space to accommodate your pooch.
The vertically-split boot lid should make it easy for your dog to get in and out, and MINI also offers a wide range of accessories to help keep everything clean.
The company said: "Our cars can accommodate just about any breed, from Sighthounds to Spaniels to Terriers, and everything in between. The Mini Countryman and Mini Clubman are our biggest models, with surprisingly generous room in the back."
Tesla Model Y SUV
Tesla allows pet owners to set the car at their dog's preferred temperature, enabling you to safely leave them in the car while you nip out for short errands.
And a message is displayed on the touchscreen notifying passersby that your dog is being cared for.
Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
The Toyota Corolla has long been considered a good choice for dog owners.
With a low-load lip, it's easy for smaller or less mobile dogs to hop in the rear, and with a 581-litre cargo bay, there's enough space for most dogs to stretch out.
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