GOVERNMENT kind approval paperwork obtained by GoAuto recommend the Toyota Tundra pick-up truck is near Australian launch and seem to verify {that a} single variant powered by the corporate’s new hybrid 3.5-litre turbo-petrol V6 powertrain will launch initially, regardless of a number of petrol-only prototypes noticed present process native testing.
The documentation refers to variant code VXKH75L-PSVLZA, which Toyota information maps to a Tundra in mid-spec Restricted trim with brief (167cm) cargo mattress and 4×4 hybrid driveline.
Though in step with Toyota Australia’s preliminary affirmation that native Tundra fashions will characteristic a hybrid system, it appears contradictory that non-hybrid fashions have been noticed on the streets of Melbourne bearing quantity plates missing Victoria’s obligatory electrified car (EV) placard.
Toyota has remained tight-lipped about launch commitments, suggesting the Tundra should move native testing and validation earlier than any commitments might be revamped whether or not a petrol-only possibility could possibly be on the playing cards for Aussie consumers.
“Whereas that is thrilling information for Toyota and Tundra followers alike, an Australian RHD Tundra faces additional checkpoints in Toyota’s international approval course of earlier than its retail introduction may be confirmed,” the corporate mentioned in a satement.
Melbourne-based remanufacturing secure Walkinshaw – well-known for its longstanding HSV partnership, has been chosen as Toyota’s accomplice to re-engineer the Tundra for Australia.
Walkinshaw has kind on this regard, already conducting factory-backed right-hand drive conversions for RAM 1500, 2500 and 3000 fashions in addition to the Chevrolet Silverado.
Toyota describes the Tundra localisation program as “anticipated to set a brand new benchmark in Australia for the re-engineering of a full-sized pick-up truck from LHD to RHD”.
A lot of the conversion components, like steering racks and right-hand drive inside elements, might be borrowed from the LandCruiser 300 however full particulars of the modifications are but to be confirmed.
Uniquely, Toyota is taking an additional cautious strategy for the Tundra conversion, with a plan to deploy about 300 examples with chosen prospects round Australia as a part of the ultimate stage its the RHD re-engineering program.
“This can be a devoted re-engineering program, led by Toyota Australia and made attainable by our international companions and is carefully supported by our father or mother firm and Toyota North America,” mentioned Toyota Australia vice chairman of gross sales and advertising, Sean Hanley, when the Tundra was first confirmed for Australia 11 months in the past.
“It should utilise OE ranges of design, growth, testing and componentry rooted in Toyota’s deep dedication to high quality, sturdiness and reliability.
“This mission reveals simply how critical we’re at Toyota about high quality, and a RHD Tundra won’t be out there on the market in Australia, till we’re completely happy.”
As soon as it arrives Down Below, the big Tundra pick-up will function a giant brother to Toyota’s top-selling HiLux with pricing – primarily based on comparable fashions already on sale – nicely into six digits.
