Regular Truck Jungle readers would be aware that locally compliance, RHD versions of Toyota’s Tundra US pickup truck are now available in Australia through specialist importers, which makes the ‘Tundra Sportsman’ design concept of more interest to Aussie truck buyers.
The Tundra Sportsman, which appeared at the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas, pushes the creative boundaries of a ute, serving double-duty as the ultimate sportsman fantasy transport and base camp.
The unique show truck began life as a Tundra Double Cab 4×4 equipped with the standard 5.7-litre DOHC V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Modifications include a 3.0-inch suspension lift kit, custom air intake and snorkel, custom exhaust with pipes exiting the roof-top deck for improved water-crossing capability and ATX 18-inch Teflon-coated wheels fitted with 33 x 12.5-inch mud tyres.
Inside the truck is designed to be a command center, with field electronics including a weather station and GPS. Bucket seats are upholstered in waterproof material and the standard 10-speaker JBL sound system is supplemented by JBL all-weather outdoor speakers.
Extensive modifications to the cargo bed create three unique zones, with equipment concealed and protected by a fabricated shell.
On the driver side, the entire bed side swings out to a 90-degree angle from the truck. It incorporates a work bench for cleaning essential gear. The passenger side of the bed incorporates cabinets and a closet, while the tailgate section includes a mobile kitchen with a small stove, sink and work surface, storage for cooking utensils and a built-in 26.5-litre water tank.
On top of the camper shell and cab, an 8.0 square meter platform accommodates a two-person tent as well as a camouflage blind.
Plenty of interesting ideas here. Makes you wonder what we could do with a dual-cab Hilux or 70 Series. TJ