Toyota launches Hilux bakkie custom conversions in South Africa

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced that it is introducing a new fully integrated conversion programme for its Hilux bakkies.

Called Hilux Custom Builds, the factory-backed programme gives South Africans access to Toyota’s in-house, OEM-standard conversions, with the carmaker stating that the builds are evaluated to ensure the meet the same quality and reliability as the vehicles themselves.

TSAM said that customers can order their preferred conversion when ordering a new Hilux, and the vehicle will be delivered as a complete, ready-to-work unit.

The conversion is available on the Hilux 2.4 GD-6 4×2 or 4×4 base unit, and begins with a dedicated flat-deck body.

Toyota’s engineers have developed a range of configuration builds for customers to choose from. TSAM did not state how many configurations are available, but it debuted at least seven renders of various options.

These include options such as “steel or aluminium dropsides, cargo rails with optional dropsides, full or field-technician canopies, and drybox solutions for secure equipment storage.”

It said that the solutions have been developed from scratch, ensuring structural integrity, compatibility, and long-term durability.

Toyota did not reveal pricing, stating that “pricing, compatibility details, and assistance in configuring a solution to your operational needs” can be done through a Toyota Fleet or Accessories representative.

It stated that the key differentiating factor between Hilux Custom Builds and aftermarket fitments is the integrated nature of the offering, and the brand’s three-year, 100,000km warranty.

This matches the warranty of the base vehicle and provides customers with a single support structure and point of contact.

These vehicles and configurations are meant to be workhorses, with Toyota aiming at industries like agriculture, mining, construction, field service, and logistics.