4wd-Toyota HiAce-tourer
In Australia, an approved second-stage manufacturing conversion by Bus4x4 has created a four-wheel drive version of the ubiquitous HiAce panel van. It has full-time 4wd, low-ratio transfer gearing, centre and optional rear diff-locks, raised suspension and a drivetrain from a Landcruiser 200. This we feel is a recipe for something special.
Now, in a partnership involving 4xOverland, Bus4x4 and EGON, we are transforming this ordinary delivery workhorse into an unrivalled two or four-person overland tourer for Australia. This project begins February 2024.
Can we transform this ordinary, slab-sided, purely functional delivery van into a highly-capable off-roader and comfortable long-distance wilderness tourer camper? And is it better than Troopcarrier?
This is our challenge for 2024.
Build diary
- Feb 2023. We ordered from our favourite dealer Grand Toyota Wangara, a HiAce SWB with one-piece tailgate and single LHS slider.
- August 2023. Delivery was expected but told to wait some more. We then rescheduled the build for 2024.
- December 2. Confirmed that our HiAce is on a ship heading for WA.
- Feb 2024. 4WD conversion scheduled for mid March. Off road review due early April 2024.