Extreme-Environment Tundra Ready for Debut

Even if the global economic crisis has increased the demand for fuel-efficient cars providing lowered fuel consumptions, recently-unveiled concepts prove that some carmakers are still in love with large trucks capable of facing the most extreme environments. Toyota’s TForce Motorsports 2007 Tundra Support 3 was especially designed to “demonstrate the ability to highlight an off-the-dealership floor vehicle for use in extreme environments with only minor additions and modifications,” as the Japanese company said in a press statement.

Basically, Toyota aimed to install only a few yet high-performance parts that would be able to boost Tundra’s features but at the same time, to prove that Toyota’s model would be able to face the most extreme challenges.

And since we were talking about features, this concept is powered by the 2007 5.7-liter V8 iForce Toyota Tundra engine but enhanced with a TRD exhaust system. The standard wheels were replaced by BFGoodrich 33-inch All Terrain T/A radial tires combined with 18-inch Toyota rims. The suspension system is now based on a Fox Race Shock kit on both the front and the rear,

In terms of on-board technology, Tundra Support 3 integrates a Dual Kenwood TK 790H Radio System plus a Iridium Satellite Phone System and Firestone’s Airbag Rear Ride Control System.

“Toyota Tundra Support 3 began work for the team in 2007 in prelude to the 40th Baja 1000. Support 3 continues in 2008 as the team adds a second Trophy Truck to its stable. The team tasked Support 3 with duties that would include transporting spare fuel and tires in emergency situations for the no. 33 and 34 TForce Trophy Truck class vehicles,” Toyota’s representatives said about the new vehicle.

“In addition, Support 3 will also be used as a tow vehicle for both the no. 33 and 34 Toyota Trophy Trucks as well as the specially prepared TForce Motorsports Pre-Runner vehicles for use before the race event to learn the long, demanding off-road courses that SCORE and BITD use for their events.”