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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The HiLux is fully kitted with KC HiLiTES lights, all supplied by Rugged USA Imports.

On the canopy sits a KC HiLiTES Flex Era 1, while the bull bar and pillar mounts are fitted with KC HiLiTES Flex Era 3s. Topping it all off, the roof hosts a KC HiLiTES Gravity Titan LED light bar. The combination not only looks tough but delivers serious performance for off-road adventures.

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

Australian travellers take to the road in everything from midsize utes to LandCruiser and Patrol wagons, and more recently full-size American pick-ups. 

Yet despite the variety, there’s still no one-size-fits-all solution. Many of us are looking for something bespoke – a rig built to suit our individual needs and carry the gear we can’t leave behind.

For many travellers, mainstream 4×4 utes feel too agricultural, while LandCruiser and Patrol wagons lack the load space and flexibility of a pick-up. Full-size US pick-ups have become a popular alternative, but despite their bulk, limited payload capacity often restricts their usefulness.

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ASG 4×4 has been addressing this conundrum since 2012 and, in that time, has converted more than 1000 LandCruiser 200 and 300 Series wagons into the ultimate touring-ready 4x4s.

The conversion process involves cutting the rear off the donor wagon and transforming it into a ute. In many cases this includes a chassis and wheelbase extension, positioning the rear axle correctly under the load area – whether that’s a tray or a custom canopy.

ASG 4×4 holds Second Stage Manufacturer (SSM) approval, which means if the conversion is carried out before first registration, it’s nationally certified and approved under the SSM program. ASG 4×4 also holds a Toyota Approved Redirect number, which means a new LandCruiser can be shipped directly to ASG 4×4 for re-engineering before it goes to the dealer.

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The re-engineering process starts before the vehicle even arrives at ASG 4×4. The team first sits down with the owner to understand exactly what they want from their build and how the vehicle will be used. Is the conversion aimed at boosting load capacity, adding a canopy or tray body, or improving towing performance? And if a wheelbase or chassis extension is needed, how much is right for the application?

Owners of LandCruiser 79 Series models can also benefit from a chassis extension, which repositions the rear axle under the load and makes room for a longer tray or canopy. ASG 4×4 offers extensions in either 300mm or 450mm lengths.

The same applies to GVM upgrades – how much capacity is required and how it can be increased legally to meet the owner’s needs. The ASG 4×4 team manages all these elements to deliver a fully re-engineered, drive-away package.

ASG 4×4 is fully equipped to manufacture and fit a tray or canopy to suit your converted vehicle – or any ute, for that matter. All work is carried out in-house, with custom dimensions to match the extended length and extra width of the converted LandCruiser (around 200mm wider than a standard dual-cab, so an off-the-shelf tray won’t fit). Trays can be built in steel or aluminium and optioned with toolboxes, water tanks, a choice of headboards and integrated lighting.

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The same goes for ASG 4×4’s aluminium canopies, which are available in 650mm, 850mm, 1500mm and 1800mm lengths. They can be built to take up the full tray or just part of it, providing a more versatile set-up tailored to your needs.

Just as ASG 4×4 can customise what goes on the back of your vehicle, its sister company, Touring Solutions Australia (TSA), can tailor the chassis to meet your GVM requirements. TSA works with leading suspension manufacturers and suppliers to deliver curated upgrade packages to suit both the capabilities and requirements of each vehicle. And it’s not limited to conversions – TSA also caters for LandCruiser and Patrol wagons, American pick-ups and other popular 4x4s.

Once again, if this work is carried out before first registration, it can be engineered and certified under the SSM scheme. This means the increased weight capacities are legal Australia-wide, while still retaining the factory braked towing limit. In many cases, larger wheels and tyres can also be included in the approval. If the conversion is done on a vehicle that’s already registered, it will need to be engineered in your state of registration – and ASG 4×4 ensures all work meets state compliance requirements.

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All of ASG 4×4’s re-engineering and manufacturing is carried out in-house at its facility in Toowoomba, Queensland. Touring Solutions Australia is also based in Toowoomba, with a network of approved fitters and suppliers located around the country. A full list can be found on the company’s website.

Over the years we’ve featured plenty of 4x4s that have received the ASG 4×4 and Touring Solutions Australia treatment – and we’ve been lucky enough to drive a few as well. Each time we’ve come away impressed by the quality of workmanship, the attention to detail and, most importantly, the way the finished vehicles perform.

After a brief and disappointing partnership with Recre8, ASG 4×4 and Touring Solutions Australia are now back in the hands of their original owners, free to focus on their core strength – re-engineering 4x4s to meet the needs of touring Australians.

More information

ASG 4×4

• Address: 31 Jones St, Harlaxton, 4350, Qld
• Phone: 0428 798 024

Touring Solutions Australia

• Address: 31 Jones St, Harlaxton, 4350, Qld
• Phone: (07) 4593 0076

BYD will expand its footprint in Australia later this year with the arrival of its premium Denza sub-brand, confirmed to launch in November 2025 with two plug-in hybrid SUVs aimed squarely at the off-road and touring market.

The first arrivals will be the Denza B5, a Prado-sized five-seater, and the larger three-row B8. Both are built on BYD’s DMO platform and feature ladder-frame construction with off-road hardware. Local pricing is still to come, but in China the B5 ranges from the equivalent of around $61,500-$75,000 and the B8 from roughly $80,600-$86,600.

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“This is a landmark moment in the Australian automotive industry,” said Mark Harland, Denza Australia COO. “Denza will offer a whole new range for consumers wanting a slice of luxury and the latest in innovation. It’s built for explorers, pioneers, and leaders. For those who see roads as invitations, not boundaries, we know Denza will be one of the most exciting premium brand launches to date.”

The Denza B5 shares its underpinnings with the BYD Shark 6, running a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with twin electric motors and a 31.8kWh Blade battery. On paper, outputs sit at 505kW and 760Nm, with a 0-100km/h claim of 4.8 seconds, though Australian specs are yet to be confirmed. The battery supports 100kW DC fast charging and provides about 100km of EV-only range. Off-road features include adaptive dampers, locking front and rear diffs, a simulated low-range function and eight drive modes.

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The larger Denza B8 is sized to compete with the LandCruiser 300 Series and Nissan Patrol, stretching 5195mm long with a 2920mm wheelbase. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit, twin e-motors and a 36.8kWh Blade battery, producing a claimed 550kW and 760Nm. Like the B5, it posts a 4.8-second 0-100km/h figure. Suspension is air-adjustable, offering up to 310mm of clearance, while front, centre and rear locking diffs are fitted.

Inside, both models take a tech-heavy approach, with the B5 offering a 15.6-inch rotating display and the B8 stepping up to a 17.3-inch unit backed by dual passenger screens, a 50-inch AR head-up display and high-end audio.

Dealer details and final specifications for Australia remain unannounced, but with right-hand drive testing already spotted locally, Denza is clearly preparing for a direct challenge to established 4×4 players.

For 4×4 and off-grid enthusiasts, the Next Generation Ultra Slim series from Custom Lithium takes compact, high-capacity lithium batteries to the next level. 

Building on the standard Ultra Slim range, these batteries are designed for improved performance, higher energy capacity, and enhanced durability in harsh off-road conditions.

The Next Generation Ultra Slim line-up covers a broad range of capacities, including 100 Ah, 200 Ah, 230 Ah, 280 Ah, 310 Ah, 400 Ah, 460 Ah, 560 Ah, and 620 Ah, providing options for everything from short weekend trips to extended overland journeys. Compared with the original Ultra Slim series, the next generation models offer higher usable energy, more consistent voltage output, and increased maximum continuous discharge, making them better suited for 4WDs, camper trailers, and off-grid systems running multiple appliances.

These batteries use upgraded LiFePO₄ cells with refined chemistry for longer life and enhanced thermal stability. Each unit also includes an advanced Battery Management System (BMS) with improved safety features, ensuring protection against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating even under heavy off-grid loads.

The slim, compact form factor remains a key advantage, allowing installation in tight spaces such as under seats, in canopy compartments, or behind storage panels, while still delivering more power than the original Ultra Slim range. This makes them ideal for fridges, lights, water pumps, winches, and other essential off-road accessories without compromising payload or vehicle layout.

For serious overlanders and off-road travellers, the Next Generation Ultra Slim series offers higher performance, more capacity, and improved reliability compared with the standard Ultra Slim batteries, making it a practical upgrade for any 4×4 or camping setup.

For 4×4 owners who spend time off the beaten track, a reliable dual-battery setup is essential. 

Custom Lithium dual-battery systems are designed to provide independent, high-capacity power for your vehicle’s accessories while keeping the starter battery fully charged and ready to go. These systems are particularly useful for powering fridges, lights, winches, water pumps, and other gear on extended trips or off-grid adventures.

Custom Lithium offers vehicle-specific dual-battery systems for a wide range of popular 4x4s, including:

• Ford Everest and Ranger
• Isuzu MU-X and D-MAX
• Jeep Gladiator
• Nissan Navara NP300 and Patrol Y62
• Toyota HiLux (N70 and N80)
• Toyota LandCruiser 79
• VW Amarok
• Mazda BT-50

Each system is designed for easy integration with the vehicle’s existing electrical setup and comes with LiFePO₄ lithium batteries for lightweight, high-capacity power. Integrated Battery Management Systems (BMS) ensure protection against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating, keeping both batteries safe and reliable in remote conditions.

Compared with standard lead-acid dual-battery setups, Custom Lithium systems offer more usable energy, longer lifespan, and consistent voltage output. The lithium batteries maintain steady power for accessories throughout the trip, reducing the risk of running out of energy for critical equipment.

For off-road enthusiasts and overlanders, these dual-battery systems provide a turnkey solution to power camping fridges, lights, and other accessories, while ensuring the starter battery is always ready to start the engine. Vehicle-specific designs make installation straightforward and maximise space efficiency within the engine bay or tray.

With Custom Lithium dual-battery systems, your 4×4 setup can handle extended off-grid trips with reliable, long-lasting power for all your accessories.

The Custom Lithium Compact series offers high-capacity lithium batteries in a slightly larger form factor.

This range is ideal for vehicles, camper trailers and canopy setups where the slightly taller Slim or Ultra Slim batteries may not provide enough capacity for extended trips or heavier setups.

The Compact series includes 200 Ah, 230 Ah, 280 Ah, and 310 Ah options, giving users flexibility depending on power requirements. Smaller capacities are suitable for weekend trips, running a fridge, lights, or a water pump, while the 280 Ah and 310 Ah models can support longer tours or rigs with multiple accessories.

Compared with the Ultra Slim series, Compact batteries are larger but provide higher total energy and can handle higher continuous loads. Compared with the Slim series, the Compact range trades a little extra physical space for increased capacity, making it better suited for vehicles with room for taller battery boxes or dedicated storage compartments.

All Compact batteries use LiFePO₄ cells, delivering stable voltage, consistent output, and long cycle life. Integrated Battery Management Systems (BMS) protect against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating, ensuring reliable performance in remote or off-road conditions.

For 4×4 and camping enthusiasts, the Compact series provides dependable, high-capacity power for fridges, lights, water pumps, winches, and other essential accessories.

By combining higher energy capacity with robust construction and protective systems, the Custom Lithium Compact batteries are a practical choice for overlanders, long-distance travellers and anyone looking to upgrade their off-grid power setup.

The Custom Lithium Slim series provides high-capacity power in a slightly taller format than the Ultra Slim range, offering more flexibility where space is available.

This makes Slim batteries well-suited for camper trailers, canopies and vehicles where under-seat or low-profile Ultra Slim units may not fit. The Slim range includes 100Ah, 200Ah and 230Ah models, allowing users to choose a battery that matches their power needs.

Smaller capacities are ideal for running fridges, lights, or water pumps on short trips, while the larger 200Ah and 230Ah units can support longer tours or setups with multiple accessories. Compared with the Ultra Slim series, Slim batteries trade a slightly taller profile for a practical balance of capacity and installation versatility, making them easier to integrate into mid-sized compartments or modular setups.

These batteries use LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) cells, providing stable voltage, long cycle life, and consistent output. Each includes an integrated Battery Management System (BMS) to protect against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating – features that are particularly important for off-road and remote use. For 4×4 drivers, campers, and overlanders, the Slim series provides reliable, consistent power for fridges, lights, water pumps, and other essential gear.

By offering a balance between size, capacity, and durability, the Slim range is a practical alternative to Ultra Slim batteries when a little extra space is available without compromising vehicle layout or payload.

For 4×4 owners, space and weight are often just as important as raw power. The Custom Lithium Ultra Slim series delivers high-capacity lithium batteries in a compact format, designed to fit into tight spots in vehicles, camper trailers, or canopies.

The range spans from 100 Ah to 310 Ah options, letting users choose the right size for their setup. Smaller capacities are useful for short trips or running a fridge and lights, while the larger batteries can support longer tours with multiple appliances.

These batteries use LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) cells, which provide long life, stable voltage, and consistent performance. Each unit has a Battery Management System (BMS) to protect against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating – features that are particularly useful for off-road conditions and remote campsites.

The slim design makes them easy to fit under seats, behind panels, or in canopy compartments, while the reduced weight frees up payload for gear and supplies. For 4×4 drivers, this combination of compact size, light weight, and reliable capacity makes installation simpler and setups more efficient.

In practical terms, the Ultra Slim batteries can run fridges, lights, water pumps, and other accessories without the usual limitations of older lead-acid batteries. They also maintain steady power throughout the discharge cycle, so your gear operates consistently until the battery is almost empty.

For anyone spending time off the beaten track, the Custom Lithium Ultra Slim series provides a dependable, space-conscious solution to power your 4×4, camper, or off-grid setup – keeping your gear running reliably no matter where the journey takes you.