Ironman 4×4’s complete range of accessories and suspension kits for the BYD Shark is now available directly through the company’s nationwide retail and fitment network.

Previously limited to BYD dealerships, the change means Shark owners can now purchase and install Ironman 4×4 equipment either at the point of vehicle delivery or through any Ironman outlet across Australia.

“This release is a milestone for Ironman 4×4 and for BYD Shark 6 owners,” said Kristian Ristell, GM Global Product at Ironman 4×4. “By making our full range available both through BYD and directly via our own network, we’re ensuring every owner can access high-quality, PHEV-ready accessories designed to enhance capability, safety and lifestyle.”

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The updated line-up introduces several first-to-market products engineered specifically for the Shark platform. These include an aluminium sports bar, aluminium rear step tow bar, aluminium nudge bar, slip-resistant side steps, and comprehensive underbody protection – all designed to integrate with the vehicle’s factory bodywork and mounting points.

Ironman 4×4 has placed an emphasis on aluminium construction to reduce weight while retaining strength for off-road and towing applications – an important consideration for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.

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Key products expected to attract the most demand include a mix of touring, protection and storage solutions developed to meet the Shark’s payload and chassis characteristics. These include the Electronic Slide-Away Roller Shutter, Aluminium Raid Bull Bar, Aluminium Raid Canopy, Aluminium Raid Roof Rack, Aluminium Rear Step Tow Bar, Aluminium Roller Drawer Kits and the IM2.5 Monotube Suspension Lift Kit with optional GVM upgrade.

Most items are available now, with a small number of new releases expected in early 2026. Full details and availability can be found at ironman4x4.com.au/pages/byd-shark

For 4×4 enthusiasts exploring Australia’s backroads, wildlife collisions are an ongoing hazard. Recent data from insurer AAMI shows crashes involving animals on regional roads are frequent and costly, with serious consequences for both motorists and native wildlife.

Between July 1 2024 and June 30 2025, AAMI analysed 23,840 claims for wildlife-related accidents. Nearly one in five vehicles involved – around 18 per cent – were written off, with average repair bills of approximately $8000. Dusk remains the riskiest time for collisions, as animals become more active and visibility drops. Kangaroos were the most commonly hit species, followed by wallabies, wombats, deer, feral pigs and emus.

Victoria recorded the highest number of wildlife collisions (7851), while regional hotspots across the country included Dubbo (NSW), Sunbury (Vic) and Broken Hill (NSW). Friday proved to be the worst day of the week, most likely due to increased weekend travel.

“These figures show the serious and often costly consequences of wildlife collisions on our country roads,” said Tim Buckett, AAMI Executive General Manager Motor Claims Customer. “Not only do these accidents pose a significant risk to motorists and their vehicles, but they also have a tragic impact on our native wildlife. We urge all drivers to exercise extreme caution, especially when driving during dawn and dusk, and in known wildlife areas.”

Environmental pressures such as drought, floods, bushfires and habitat loss have also pushed more native animals onto roads, making them increasingly vulnerable while seeking food or shelter.

“Extreme weather events over the past 12 months continue to impact our native animals especially in regional Australia with many regions affected by ongoing drought, severe floods and bushfires,” said Leanne Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES). “During these weather events, native animals are forced out of their usual habitat and are increasingly at risk as they cross roads and highways seeking refuge and shelter.

“This is further compounded by ongoing loss of habitat through development and land clearing with many species including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas being displaced and vulnerable to car strikes as they search for new habitat.”

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10 tips 4×4 drivers tackling country roads at dusk and dawn

1. Reduce speed: Slower speeds give you more time to react to wildlife crossing the road.
2. Use high beams and aftermarket LED lighting: Improve visibility on unlit roads, but dip for oncoming traffic.
3. Install a bull bar: Provides added protection for your vehicle in the event of a collision with larger animals.
4. Stay alert and scan ahead: Watch the roadside edges for movement, especially in bushland or paddocks.
5. Avoid distractions: Keep focus on the road and surroundings; limit phone or infotainment use.
6. Know the hotspots: Familiarise yourself with areas known for kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife.
7. Drive defensively: Expect animals to move unpredictably, and be prepared to brake safely.
8. Keep a rescue kit in your rig: Include a towel, gloves, and a box for injured joeys or chicks.
9. Follow wildlife signage: Council and state warning signs indicate frequent animal activity.
10. Report animal strikes safely: Contact WIRES or local authorities to help injured wildlife and prevent further accidents.

Animal collisions: Australia-wide

Animal collisions: Victoria

Animal collisions: NSW

Animal collisions: Queensland

Animal collisions: South Australia

Animal collisions: Western Australia

Animal collisions: ACT

Animal collisions: Northern Territory

Animal collisions: Tasmania

*AAMI data based on analysis of 23,840 claims received between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025

Grays Online has entered administration after being acquired by Slattery Auctions for $2 million. The transaction brings the century-old platform under the ownership of the family-run auction business.

Advisory and restructuring firm McGrathNicol has been appointed to oversee Grays’ operations during administration. Despite entering voluntary administration on October 3, 2025, Grays has assured customers that daily operations remain unaffected. A Help Centre notice recently published on its website states: “We’re trading as normal – orders, deliveries, returns and support are unaffected. If you need help, contact us via the Help Centre.”

Since its establishment in 1922, Grays Online has evolved from a traditional auction house into a comprehensive online marketplace offering vehicles, industrial machinery and commercial goods.

Slattery Auctions, founded in 2000, has become a leading national hub for 4x4s, utes, and commercial vehicles. Celebrating 25 years this year, the family-run company also serves defence, navy and construction clients. Under James, Tim, and Paddy Slattery, it is known for reliability, strong customer support, and a user-friendly online platform connecting buyers and sellers across Australia.

The company operates fixed sites across six states and territories, supported by mobile teams for regional and off-site sales, running over 50 auctions monthly, including onsite and online events. 4x4s are a core focus, with LandCruisers, Hiluxes, Patrols and Rangers attracting strong interest. Classic and vintage models such as early LandCruisers, Defenders, Pajeros and G-Wagens are also increasing in popularity.

Beyond auctions, Slattery provides valuations and advisory services, assisting banks, financiers, and private clients with asset assessments, disposals, and capital recovery decisions. Its tailored fleet rationalisation programs and expanding online remarketing platform extend its reach beyond traditional auction days.

JAC is expanding its T9 range with four new variants, which are scheduled to arrive in Australian dealerships from November 2025.

The Chinese marque will add two new cab-chassis models – the Tradepro CC and Oasis CC – both featuring 1165kg payload capacities (excluding the tray). JAC will also release the Osprey and Osprey X, which build on the T9 Haven’s specification but add a power sunroof and premium suspension tune.

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In addition, the Osprey X includes a black exterior styling package covering the grille, alloy wheels, roof bars, wing mirrors, door handles, and side-vent surrounds. Both Osprey variants have a 980kg payload, keeping them under the one-tonne novated leasing ceiling.

All four new models use JAC’s 125kW/410Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The T9’s 4WD system includes a dual-range BorgWarner transfer case and a locking rear differential.

All models come with the JAC All Roads Assurance (JARA) package, which provides a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance for seven years, capped price servicing, and a warranty loan vehicle program.

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“The success of our T9 dual-cab 4×4 has shown that Australians appreciate the combination of safety, capability, reliability and great value that JAC delivers,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, JAC Motors Australia’s Managing Director. “These four fantastic new T9 family members expand the T9’s appeal for customers with specific requirements – whether that’s the ultimate work platform or a desire for enhanced daily comfort.”

The T9 is currently available in Australia in two variants: the base Oasis ($39,990) and premium Haven ($43,990). The T9 received a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2024.

Pricing and final specifications for the new T9 variants will be confirmed closer to release.

Yakima’s MOD System is about to land in Australia, giving 4WD owners a practical, modular solution for hauling gear. 

The system will be available from late October 2025 through authorised dealers, with the HomeBase starting at $1079, MOD Topper from $749, and accessories from $25.

“This is the gear-hauling solution Aussie drivers have been waiting for,” said Tracy Schweitzer, Senior Brand Manager for Yakima Australia. “The MOD System is built tough for serious off-roaders, but it’s just as at home with busy families juggling school runs, weekend sports, and spontaneous getaways. From campfires to commutes, it’s ready for whatever life throws in the back.”

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At the core is the MOD HomeBase, the base unit of the drawer system. It installs in minutes with no drilling or modifications required. Built from sturdy aluminium, it carries 45kg in the drawer and 113kg on top. Heavy-duty slides and solid construction give a quiet, premium feel on- or off-road, while internal dividers and built-in attachment points allow connection of MOD Toppers, stretch nets, or an additional HomeBase. Drawers can also be locked with Yakima SKS Lock Cores (sold separately).

The MOD Topper is a half-side drawer add-on that attaches securely to the HomeBase in seconds using Yakima’s torque-limiting tool, no extra tools required. Its aluminium construction handles tough use, while heavy-duty slides ensure smooth operation on any terrain. Rated for 23kg, it’s ideal for tools, spares, or everyday gear, and also compatible with SKS locks.

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The Australian MOD System includes robust drawer units, heavy-duty fridge slides, and stretch nets to keep gear secure over corrugations, bush tracks, and repeated loading. Already praised as a game changer in the USA, MOD has been tailored for Australia and built to withstand dust mud, and coastal spray.

Pricing

• HomeBase: From $1079 
• MOD Topper: From $749 
• Accessories: From $25

The all-new MGU9 dual-cab ute has achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with ANCAP applying the 2024 test results of the LDV eTerron 9 to confirm the rating for all MGU9 diesel variants sold locally.

The MGU9 and LDV Terron 9 are essentially the same vehicle, both built by SAIC Motor Corporation, but with key differences in suspension and tuning. They share the same platform, 2.5-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and BorgWarner 4×4 system with 2H, Auto, 4H and 4L modes, plus front and rear electronically locking differentials.

The main distinction between the pair is in the rear suspension: the Terron 9 uses a leaf-spring, live-axle setup; the MGU9 features a multi-link, coil-spring design. The MGU9’s payload ranges from 770kg to 870kg, towing capacity is 3500kg, ground clearance is 220mm, and wading depth is 550mm.

ANCAP testing recorded scores of 91 per cent for adult occupant protection; 89 per cent for child occupant protection; 84 per cent for vulnerable road user protection; and 85 per cent for safety assist features.

The MGU9 is offered in three grades:

Explore ($52,990): 18-inch alloys, LED headlights, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment, cloth/vegan leather seats, basic safety and off-road modes.

Explore X ($55,990): 19-inch alloys, additional safety systems, Amazon Music/iSmart connectivity, 360° camera, leather upholstery, heated front seats, electric passenger seat, roof rails, tub slide rail, and extra lighting.

Explore Pro ($60,990): 20-inch alloys, JBL audio, suede headliner, panoramic sunroof, leather seats with massage/ventilation, 64-colour ambient lighting, Smart Hatch, optional Electrically Foldable Rear Cabin Access Panel, and Turnover End Gate with built-in step and cupholders.

The MGU9 is backed by a seven-year warranty, with 12-month/15,000 km service intervals and capped-price servicing, supported by a network of over 100 dealers across Australia.

Ford Australia has introduced a limited-edition upgrade for the MY26 Ranger Raptor, dubbed the Desert Pack.

The package, priced at $5990 fitted, includes a purpose-built ARB sports bar, four ARB Nacho Quatro roof-mounted lamps, Ford Performance all-weather mats (front and rear), and exclusive Desert Pack decals that can be removed for a cleaner look.

Developed in partnership with ARB, the kit draws on the Raptor’s success in the Finke Desert Race, where Ford’s “Stock Class” Ranger Raptor has claimed multiple victories. It’s a nod to that endurance racing experience, designed for owners who regularly head into rough country and want factory-backed gear.

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Just 500 Desert Pack units will be offered across Australia, but the ARB Sports Bar and Nacho Quatro lighting setup will stay exclusive to this run before being released later as standalone accessories through Ford dealers.

“The Ranger Raptor has proven itself in the toughest conditions imaginable, setting records at Finke in the Stock Class competition and demonstrating genuine, real-world, desert racing capability,” said Ambrose Henderson, Marketing Director at Ford Australia.

“The Desert Pack celebrates that racing heritage while delivering the authentic off-road enhancements that our most enthusiastic customers have been asking for. By partnering with ARB, we’re bringing that same spirit of extreme performance to customers who demand that little bit extra capability and style from their Raptor,” Henderson added.

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The factory Power Roller Shutter isn’t compatible with the pack, but the Real Truck Power Roller Shutter can be fitted instead through Ford Accessories. Orders for the 2026 Ranger Raptor Desert Pack are open now, with production beginning in October 2025 and deliveries expected soon after.

This launch follows the release earlier this year of the limited-edition Ranger and Everest Black Editions.

There’s a particular satisfaction in building a vehicle exactly how you want it – not how the aftermarket says you should, or how Instagram trends dictate.

Bri Voto, the force behind YouTube’s Driven Garage, has done exactly that with her graphite Toyota Hilux, producing a touring rig that challenges conventional wisdom about what makes a true Australian 4×4.

Best known for her gold Nissan GU Patrol builds, Voto has shifted both literally and philosophically toward something “a little bit more reliable,” as she puts it. But reliability here doesn’t mean predictable – this Hilux is a masterclass in purposeful modification, where every upgrade has a functional role and street legality is the foundation of the build.

Street-legal lift: SSM done right

The story starts with paperwork, not horsepower.

Voto prioritised Second Stage Manufacturing compliance (SSM) before registration – a move most builders overlook. This early planning unlocked modification pathways that would otherwise be complex or impossible post-rego.

Partnering with Superior Engineering, Voto executed a full suspension overhaul. The Hilux now features coil conversions front and rear, upper control arms, remote reservoir shocks, braided brake lines, and chassis bracing capable of handling her touring weight.

The result: a four-inch lift running 295-section tyres, fully street legal, with a GVM upgrade to support heavy camping gear. “There aren’t many Hilux you can do that post-rego,” she notes – a rare combination of lift, rubber, and payload compliance in today’s regulatory environment.

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Turbo punch: 160kW and 730Nm on tap

With the chassis sorted, Voto focused on the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel.

She fitted a G-Turbo G300, paired with a full tune and a Radius Fabrications airbox feeding a stainless steel snorkel. Dyno results: 160 kW and 730 Nm. More important than peak numbers is drivability. “It’s really sharp and snappy,” Voto says, with throttle response transformed and lag eliminated – even under heavy load or steep climbs. Fuel efficiency remains impressive: around 10 L/100 km unladen and roughly 12.5 L/100 km fully loaded.

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Modcap Family Camper by Alu-Cab

Voto’s approach to camping diverges from the mainstream.

Instead of a traditional canopy or rooftop tent, she opted for the Modcap Family Camper by Alu-Cab – a modular aluminium structure converting the tray into a full standing-height living space.

Sleeping capacity for four, full standing height, 360-degree ventilated windows, MOLLE panels for gear organisation, a rear galley with pantry and drawers, and a 60 L water tank are all included. Voto is developing a 12‑volt electrical system for lighting, refrigeration, and device charging.

The layout prioritises usability: cook from the rear galley, store essentials logically, sleep comfortably, and stand upright to dress or organise gear. Daily five-seat usability remains, while touring capability rivals dedicated camper vehicles.

Protective film from Bushwrapz covers vulnerable panels, keeping scratches and chips at bay during real-world off-road use. ROH Assault wheels in polished finish, paired with 295-section Nitto Trail Grapplers, balance GVM compliance with visual appeal and on‑off-road performance.

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Purpose-Built Pragmatism – No Compromises

Voto’s Hilux isn’t about chasing extremes – it’s about a holistic, use-driven build.

Street legality, extended touring comfort, reliable power, and functional camping take priority over rock-crawling suspension or oversized tyres. The Alu-Cab ModCAP embodies this philosophy: unconventional for Australia, but perfectly suited to her needs. This build proves that questioning norms and designing around actual requirements often produces the most capable, practical rigs.

Follow Bri Voto’s full build and adventures on Driven Garage, where real-world testing separates meaningful modifications from Instagram props.

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Specs

Torsus has launched the new Terrastorm Ambulance, designed to operate where conventional emergency vehicles cannot. 

Built on the Volkswagen Crafter platform with MAN’s TGE 4Motion drivetrain, it is engineered for off-road conditions and can be configured for patient transport, rapid response or intensive care.

The ambulance comes in three lengths up to 7.4 metres, offering up to 15.5m³ of usable space. High-roof models provide 2.18 metres of standing height, giving paramedics room to work inside. Large rear and sliding side doors allow quick and safe loading of patients and equipment, while flexible seating with proper harnesses ensures security even over rough terrain.

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Power comes from a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel producing 410Nm, paired with a 4×4 system that includes locking differentials and an optional low-range transfer case. Reinforced suspension, heavy-duty tyres and full underbody protection provide durability and traction in demanding conditions, while a winch is fitted for self-recovery in remote areas. Ground clearance is 250mm.

Recent upgrades improve flood and extreme-weather capability. A factory-fit snorkel, watertight door seals and a custom breather kit allow wading up to 520mm. The underside also receives a corrosion-resistant coating, and suspension refinements enhance stability on rough terrain.

“From mountain rescue support, flood response rural and off-road emergencies to natural disaster relief and the provision of medical support in the event of major incidents and accidents in extremely remote areas, the Torsus Terrastorm Ambulance can go virtually anywhere any time,” said Yuliya Khomych, Chief Strategy Officer at Torsus. 

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“It offers far more space and medical capability than a pickup, while remaining lighter and more agile than a heavy truck,” added Khomych. “ This balance of capacity and maneuverability makes it the ultimate emergency vehicle for tough terrain and in situations where the topography, weather conditions or other obstacles such as power lines make access and rescue by helicopter or other means difficult or impossible.”

Inside, the Terrastorm can be fitted with stretchers, ventilators, oxygen systems and other medical equipment as required. Externally, LED beacons, sirens, loudspeakers and high-output headlights provide visibility and authority in any environment. 

Pricing starts at €130,000 (approx. $230,000), with service and warranty support available through Volkswagen and MAN dealer networks worldwide.

Get a bunch of mates around a campfire and ask about the best camp chair and you’ll get a dozen different answers. Comfort is king, but things like build quality, how often it’ll be used, packed size and ease of setup all come into play.

There’s a new player in the camp-chair game – Tuff Arse. The Aussie brand focuses solely on designing chairs built for our conditions, and it’s quickly earning a reputation among outdoor enthusiasts for combining durability, comfort and practicality.

Durability is where Tuff Arse chairs really shine. Built with reinforced steel and aluminium frames, they’ll cop plenty of weight without bending or breaking. The fabric is a tough 600-denier polyester with a padded insert, designed to shrug off sun, rain and rough handling without fading or tearing. It’s the sort of construction that’ll see these chairs last through years of camps and trips, making them a solid investment for anyone chasing long-term gear.

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Tuff Arse doesn’t dabble in a broad catalogue – it sticks to a specialised line-up of camp chairs. The full-size Trunk is the heavy-duty option, boasting a 200kg-plus load rating. The Low Ryder sits just 20cm off the deck, perfect for the beach or outdoor concerts. For hikers, the G-Banger weighs under a kilo and packs small enough to stash in a backpack. The Sling Shot is a lightweight director’s chair built with recycled polyester canvas, while the Flamingo stands out in hot pink – a cheeky alternative for anyone sick of bland beige.

My go-to is the Trunk 2.0, which has copped a fair hiding on recent trips. It’s built heavy-duty and packed with features that make it one of the best camp chairs around. The quad-leg frame is a chunky 22mm rust-resistant powder-coated design with internal reinforcing, heavy-duty fittings and cast-alloy feet, giving it a rock-solid 200kg load rating. The 600D fabric is padded for extra comfort, while the armrests are height-adjustable and house organisers, a wine glass holder, a stubby holder and even a cast-alloy bottle opener. At $139 with a two-year warranty, it’s a chair I reckon will last plenty of outback adventures.

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The rest of the range – Flamingo, Low Ryder, G-Banger and Sling Shot – all share the same Tuff DNA, with sturdy frames, 600-denier polyester fabric, high weight ratings and handy storage pockets. The Sling Shot stands out for its eco-cred, with the canvas made from 100 per cent recycled PET sourced from plastic bottles, ocean waste and discarded textiles. Each chair saves around 86 bottles from landfill, and the fabric is fully ratified and certified.

For those chasing something a bit special, Tuff Arse will even customise your chair and carry a bag with your name, and there’s merch and gift cards on offer too. Still a relatively new player, the brand is focused purely on building better, longer-lasting camp chairs – designed to a spec, not a price point. That single-minded approach sets Tuff Arse apart from the big camping chains and puts it firmly in the running as Australia’s premium camp-chair specialist.

Tuff Arse camping chairs tick all the boxes – tough, comfortable and built to last. Whether you’re a seasoned tourer or a weekend camper, they’re a solid investment that’ll make life around the fire a whole lot more comfortable.

• RRP: $139 (Trunk 2.0)
• Website: www.tuffarsecampchairs.com.au