Toyota Tundra RHD development project confirmed for Australia

The Toyota Tundra full-size pick-up has taken a massive stride towards going on sale in Australia after the company confirmed a local right-hand-drive development program.

Toyota Australia has long been investigating the potential to bring the US-focused truck to this market, noting the success of other imported American trucks like the RAM 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado that have been converted to RHD.

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Ford Australia recently announced it would introduce the F-150, the world’s best-selling pick-up, in 2023.

Tundra prototypes will begin testing next month and be evaluated “against Australia's severe local conditions and tough customer use”.

Toyota Australia says that by late 2023 the final stage of the RHD re-engineering program will involve 300 Tundra vehicles testing nationwide in real-world conditions.

The company is partnering with the Walkinshaw Automotive Group for the Tundra re-engineering and build project. Walkinshaw has vast experience in converting full-size pick-ups for Australia, with existing responsibilities for both the RAM range (on behalf of importer Ateco), the Chevrolet Silverado (for GM Special Vehicles), and flagship W580 versions of the Volkswagen Amarok (below).

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Volkswagen Amarok W580 Walkinshaw

Toyota claims its program will set a new benchmark in Australia for converting left-hand drive trucks to right-hand drive. The company says the Tundra prototypes will borrow components from its global parts bin and include the steering column and rack, accelerator, brake pedals, and gearshift lever from the LandCruiser 300.

That’s made easier by the Tundra and LC300 sharing Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, along with the Sequoia three-row large SUV sold in the States.

Toyota says the Tundra will not be confirmed for sale in Australia until the development program has proven completely successful.

"This a dedicated re-engineering program, led by Toyota Australia and made possible by our global partners and is closely supported by our parent company and Toyota North America,: said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations.

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“It will utilise OE levels of design, development, testing and componentry rooted in Toyota's deep commitment to quality, durability and reliability.

"This project shows just how serious we are at Toyota about quality, and a RHD Tundra will not be available for sale in Australia until we are totally satisfied.

"We are really excited to get such a significant project to this stage, and look forward to seeing development prototypes on our roads and test tracks in the weeks and months ahead."

The Toyota Tundra prototypes will be powered by the most fuel-efficient drivetrain available for the pick-up – a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre petrol V6 hybrid unit.

The V6 hybrid produces 326kW and 790Nm, and is offered only in the highest trim grades in the US, such as the Tundra TRD Pro. Other models feature just a twin-turbo petrol V6 with lower outputs.

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A new-generation Toyota Tundra was unveiled in September 2021, replacing the previous model that had been on sale for 14 years. Notable changes included a switch from leaf springs to a multi-link arrangement for the rear suspension, new engines, and a more sophisticated cabin featuring either 8.0-inch or 14-inch infotainment touchscreens.

It also comes with the impressive towing capacity the full-size pick-up segment is renowned for, rated at up to 5443kg in the US market. Two new driving models allow the Tundra to be set up for whatever it is towing, such as a small trailer or large boat.

In the US, the Tundra is available in seven trim grades, with a choice of double-cab or crew-cab in most grades, and with a choice of two bed lengths.

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