Dakar - South African crews dig deep as second week begins
The 2026 Dakar Rally roared back into action on Monday with Stage 8, a gruelling 481km loop around Wadi Ad Dawasir.
- Industry News
- 12 January 2026
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is introducing Hilux Custom Builds, a fully integrated conversion programme that adds professionally engineered, purpose-built solutions directly to the Toyota product offering.
Developed entirely in-house, tested to OEM standards and delivered through the national dealer network, these conversions eliminate the traditional reliance on aftermarket fitments and give customers a seamless, factory-backed alternative.
Each build begins with a dedicated flat-deck Hilux 2.4 GD-6 (4X2 or 4X4) base unit. Working within Toyota Motor Corporation’s CVPP (Conversion Vehicle Partner Programme) framework, Toyota engineers have developed a range of configurations from first principles, ensuring structural integrity, compatibility and long-term durability.
All builds are evaluated under South African conditions to ascertain that they meet the same quality, reliability and performance expectations as the vehicles themselves.
Customers can select from conversions such as steel or aluminium dropsides, cargo rails with optional dropsides, full or field-technician canopies, and drybox solutions for secure equipment storage for different applications, whether in agriculture, mining, construction, field service or logistics.
Conversions can be ordered with the vehicle and delivered as a complete, ready-to-work unit, removing the delays and uncertainties associated with third-party installations. Because the conversion is invoiced with the Hilux itself, its full value is recognised in future resale, offering customers a more transparent and predictable ownership cycle.
Hilux Custom Builds are now available through Toyota’s official accessories and fleet dealer network. For pricing, compatibility details or assistance in configuring a solution suited to your operational needs, customers can engage directly with their nearest Toyota Fleet or Accessories representative.
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