SVI ENGINEERING

MAX 3 Six-Wheeler (6x6) from SVI Engineering: the all-terrain based on the chassis of the Toyota J79 equipped with anti-radar system

Toyota introduced the latest Land Cruiser (J300) in 2021 but continues to manufacture the J70 introduced around 1984. In fact, orders have stopped because demand outstrips supply.

Despite its venerable age, the 4x4 that can take you to the end of the world shows no signs of weakness, as it continues to benefit from updates to comply with the strictest safety standards. Meanwhile, a company specializing in armored vehicles has released one of the wildest conversions ever seen on the Land Cruiser.

Unveiled at the Africa Aerospace and Defense Show (AAD2022) held in South Africa, the MAX 3 Six-Wheeler (6x6) from SVI Engineering is based on the chassis of the J79.

As its name implies, it has a third axle, but also a modified width of the second axle to align the wheels with the front ones and solve an ‘anomaly’ of the Toyota Land Cruiser J79, according to the armored vehicle specialist.

In addition, the two rear axles benefit from disc brakes to improve stopping power and adapt to the vehicle's greater weight after adding an additional set of wheels, while improving its off-road capabilities.

Looking like it's ready to star in the next Mad Max movie, the sinister off-roader has a completely redesigned body made from armored steel plates that can survive an assault with assault rifles and grenades.

As standard, it offers a level of protection EN1063 BR6, but can optionally be upgraded to level BR7. SVI Engineering added a new rear sway bar and made adjustments to the suspension.

Power comes from the indestructible 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel engine that can support a maximum gross vehicle mass of 5,500 kilograms. Part of that weight is assigned to a drone interceptor consisting of a radar that detects the location of a hostile drone and identifies it.

Subsequently, the information is sent to the weapons management system, which is connected to the automatic grenade launcher. Once the drone has been shot down, it is possible to retrieve it using an all-terrain motorcycle mounted on the back of the pick-up.

Although the concept presented at the South African fair is based on the double cabin body, SVI Engineering reports that it will also offer a conversion to the single cabin model, in addition to an SUV version known as the Troop Carrier/WorkMate.

Autonews