Remember those Tonka toy trucks you used to play with as a kid? Toyota does, too. In fact, the Australian arm of the Japanese automaker has just unveiled the Toyota Hilux Tonka Concept, describing it as a “full-size dream toy for adults”.
The concept was conceived, designed, assembled and tested by designers and engineers from Toyota Australia’s 150-strong product planning and development division.
Why? Well, the high-riding off-roader (complete with portal axle) serves to highlight the fact that the Hilux was Australia’s best-selling vehicle last year, while also celebrating Tonka’s 70th anniversary and Toyota’s 80th.
Under that dramatic black-and-yellow livery is a double-cab bakkie powered by the automaker’s familiar (and, in this case, unaltered) 2,8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine.
The makeover includes an increase in ride height of 150 mm, heavy-duty suspension and 35-inch diameter tyres, while the bonnet features a carbon-fibre skin, a power bulge and air scoops.
The front bar and roof pod furthermore feature off-road LED lighting, while a bash plate fashioned from 6 mm-thick alloy serves to protect the sump and other vital components. Tubular side rails, meanwhile, protect the body and chassis.
The transformation also includes a new tailgate (again, wrapped in carbon-fibre), along with an integrated spoiler and two air vents. A lightweight strap rather than a handle releases the tailgate.
Inside the tub, a removable tubular frame keeps all sort of gear in place, including diesel fuel cans, while storage boxes house the recovery gear needed for extreme off-road driving. A fire extinguisher, axe, shovel and high-lift jack are also fitted.
“We have taken Tonka out of the sand pit and reinvented Hilux from top to bottom and from nose to tail,” said product design chief, Nicolas Hogios.
“Inspired by the Tonka trucks that kids play with in their backyards, the Hilux Tonka Concept goes way beyond the already hugely capable abilities of Hilux to traverse rocks and other rugged terrain,” he said.
“The Hilux Tonka Concept is dramatic evidence that our local team loves to have fun, we’re keen to explore new ideas and we’re always looking to push the boundaries of what’s possible,” Hogios added.
As expected, Toyota Australia says the Hilux Tonka Concept is not destined for dealer showrooms. Still, we can dream, right?
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