The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 is one of the most iconic off-road capable machines available today but what if 4×4 isn’t quite enough for you? Are four wheels even enough for what you have in mind?
If that’s the case, then Ulterio Motiv has worked its magic to bring two six-wheeled versions of the Land Cruiser 79, one which features a 6×4 drivetrain and the top-of-the-range model which features a 6×6 drivetrain.
Whether it is the level of performance or technology, in the automotive sphere the saying “more is better”, very often rings true. That is also the case when it comes to functionality and capability. These products aim to supply chassis to customers who want a bespoke product or a blank canvas for a vehicle that can be built up for camping, emergency services or off-road load carrying to their own specification.
As an example, suspension and bullbar components from Ironman 4×4™ can be specified, however the customer may also choose their own preference depending on their unique requirements. When the conversion is done, a custom drop-side load bin can be installed, or a customer can take their new chassis to a third-party converter where their own bespoke rear loading area can be designed and built.
Perhaps of more interest to some customers will be the fact that the GVM (gross vehicle mass) increases to a substantial 6050 kg. That is a significant 2850 kg up on that of the standard vehicle.
This is achieved by installing a third axle at the rear of the Land Cruiser’s chassis. It is important to note that the original chassis remains intact during the extension process, with the new addition to the chassis being expertly welded onto the existing ladder frame. The additional axle as well as the existing rear axle are upgraded, offering more load-carrying ability. This setup, in combination with three differential locks, allows for the ultimate off-road prowess. The rear axles are track-corrected, meaning they are slightly wider allowing the tyres to run in line with those fitted to the front axle. Whereas other existing 6×6 systems employ a complex array of drive shafts and gearboxes, the Ulterio Motiv design features a straight-through differential drive from the second to the third axle in combination with a slipper-type clutch to only activate the full 6×6 drive when needed.
There is a catch, however; owing to the homologated load-carrying ability of the 6×6, it requires a code C1 (previous code 10) licence to operate the vehicle on public roads.
ULTERIO MOTIV TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 79 6X4 BAKKIE
Visually, the 6×4 version of the Land Cruiser looks similar to the 6×6 version. The only difference is that the rear axle in this case is not powered by the engine. However, as it is still based on the standard Toyota product, the 4×4 system is still in place with the third axle in this case only assisting in the load carrying capacity – rated at a slightly lower but still substantial 5500 kg GVM. The set-up of the bogey system on the rear axles ensures that the driven axle always carries 60% of the load to improve traction. In terms of safety, both the 6×4 and 6×6 are equipped with a braking system on the third axle as well.
As an option, both offerings will be available with unique 35-inch steel wheels. These will not only improve ground clearance but add to the level of grip in off-road conditions when the appropriate tyres are fitted. As with the 6×6 model, the new axles on the 6×4 are also track-corrected.
Should a customer own a second-hand Land Cruiser 79 from the past couple of years, either in straight six, V8 or the newly launched four-cylinder automatic models, Ulterio Motiv is able to convert them into a 6×4 (or 6×6) version.
Ulterio Motiv’s public relations manager, Wilhelm Lutjeharms, continued by pointing out the highlights of both vehicles: “This Land Cruiser 79 6×6 is the ultimate in what can be offered on this platform in terms of off-road ability, but especially also in terms of load carrying capability. What really puts Ulterio Motiv on the map is the cost-effective 6×4 option that offers customers the same look and comparable carrying capacity but for less than half the price”.
COST AND BUILD TIME
6×4 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 conversion – R389,950 ex VAT
6×6 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 conversion – R895,000 ex VAT
The cost excludes the supply of the base vehicle, drop-side load bin, aftermarket wheels and tyres but includes Ironman 4×4 ™ front suspension upgrade, or similar.
Ulterio Motiv’s 6×4 conversion, as well as the 6×6, of the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 bakkie (single and double cab), requires a project build time of three months – subject to prior sales.
For more information visit: www.ulterio.co.za
