Tesla Swapped Toyota Hilux

Electrifying Classic: John Garcia’s 1972 Toyota Hilux EV Conversion

John Garcia has transformed his 1972 Toyota Hilux, fondly named “Luxi,” into an electric marvel. With a weight of 2,777 pounds and a five-month conversion timeline, this classic pickup now boasts cutting-edge EV technology while retaining its vintage charm.

Power and Performance

At the heart of this electrified Hilux lies a 2017 Tesla Model S rear small drive unit, delivering an impressive 335 horsepower and 357 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a T2C motor controller and an iPad dash, Luxi can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. The battery pack, a 90ah 33kwh unit sourced from a BMW i3, is encased in its factory box, ensuring reliability and safety. To handle the higher amps, a modified contactor setup was employed, and charging duties are managed by a stock Tesla Model S 10kw charger, complemented by its DC-DC converter.

Chassis and Suspension

J5 Dynamics handled all the fabrication work, including the custom DeDion straight axle. The meticulous mounting of the motor, battery pack, DC-DC, and charger demonstrates their expertise. Braking is straightforward, with manual, non-boosted stock brakes in the front and Honda Accord discs in the rear, featuring a custom E-brake linked to the factory Hilux handle. The rear hubs are borrowed from a Model 3, and the axles are stock Model S front left axles. Rear leaf springs from a straight axle front 4X4 Toyota pickup and the stock front suspension complete the setup.

Wheels, Tires, and Aesthetics

Luxi rides on BFG 31-inch Mudders, wrapped around Bezos Speed and Machine steel wheels. The exterior maintains its classic appeal with stock Hilux patina paint, protected by Poppy’s patina matte finish coating. The roof and grille are painted black, adding a touch of modern contrast to the vintage body.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 1990 Toyota pickup carpet kit provides a snug fit, while Home Depot MDF door cards and sun visors add a DIY touch. A carbon fiber panel blanks out the dash, and an MPI steering wheel ensures a firm grip. Kirkey aluminum seats, Bezos Speed and Machine boat cup holders, a Pioneer radio, Alpine speakers, and a Hino heater box with a smart car heater core complete the interior, blending functionality with style.

John Garcia’s 1972 Toyota Hilux is a beast that perfectly marries old-school charm with new-school tech. This ride isn’t just about preserving history; it’s about pushing the envelope and proving that even classic iron can pack a modern electric punch. Luxi is a testament to what’s possible when you mix innovation with a passion for the past—showing that the future of hot rodding is electrifying.