Toyota launched the new Land Cruiser (J300) in 2021 but is still making the J70 which was introduced in 1984. In fact, orders have stalled as demand exceeds supply. Despite its respectable age, the ubiquitous truck shows no signs of slowing down as updates are underway to meet stricter safety regulations. Meanwhile, a company that specializes in armored vehicles has unveiled one of the wildest conversions we’ve ever seen.
Unveiled at the Africa Aerospace and Defense Show (AAD2022) in South Africa, the MAX 3 Six-Wheeler SVI Engineering is based on the J79 chassis. As the name implies, it has a third axle, but also a modified second axle width to align the wheels with the front wheels to correct the J79 “anomaly”, according to armored vehicle experts. In addition, the two rear axles benefit from disc brakes for better stopping power to match the increased weight of the vehicle after adding an additional set of wheels.
Looking ready to star in the next Mad Max film, this sinister off-roader features a completely redesigned body made of armored armor that can withstand attacks with assault rifles and anti-personnel grenades. As standard, it offers protection level EN1063 BR6 but can be optionally upgraded to BR7. SVI Engineering has added a new rear anti-roll bar and made adjustments to the suspension.
Power comes from an indestructible 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel engine that can support a maximum gross vehicle mass of 5,500 kilograms (12,125 pounds). Part of that weight is attributed to drone interceptors consisting of a radar that detects the location of enemy drones and identifies them. After that, the info is sent to the battle management system, which is connected to the automatic grenade launcher. Once the drone is unloaded, it can be retrieved using an off-road motorcycle mounted on the back of the truck.
While the concept unveiled at the AAD2022 is based on a dual cabin body style, SVI Engineering says they will also sell a convertible for a single cabin and an SUV version known as the Troop Carrier/WorkMate.
