Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series GVM upgrade announced by Australian firm
11/28/2024 05:00 PM
Australian company Lovells muscles up LandCruiser carrying capability with its new GVM package.
Australia's Lovells Automotive Systems has launched a GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) upgrade for the LC79 ute versions of the 70 Series Toyota LandCruiser.
Priced at $4500 (plus GST) fitted, the Comfort Series 3900kg package increases the LandCruiser 79 Series cab chassis and double-cab's standard 3510kg GVM to – as the name suggests – a more substantial, road-legal 3900kg.
That's more than the Toyota HiLux SR5 double-cab's factory GVM of 3050kg and even the significantly larger Toyota Tundra's 3536kg GVM – but not quite as much as the Ford Ranger Super Duty's 4500kg recently announced for local showrooms.
With a front axle weight of 1540kg and rear axle capacity of 2360kg, the 79 Series pack achieves the higher numbers while enabling the 79 Series to maintain its 3500kg braked tow rating.
MORE: Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series V8's perfect replacement could well be the 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty
Compatible with LandCruiser 79 Series models produced since January 2017, the components include front springs and parabolic twin-leaf rear suspension springs, which Lovells says not only enables the greater carry capacity but also brings a more supple ride.
They're teamed with Lovells suspension airbags, which enable the rear end height to be adjusted to suit the load being carried – or based on the down weight of a trailer or caravan being towed – enhancing safety through a more controllable, predictable mass management.
Lovells recently opened its new research and development centre in Edwardstown, South Australia, a 920-square metre facility to foster testing at The Bend Motorsport Park as well as inform manufacturing in New South Wales.
The package comes as experts call for greater driver education for towing caravans after a surge across Australia during the global pandemic.
While the boom has somewhat ended, small, more affordable caravans in particular remain popular in 2024.
As well as driver education, it included calls for a nationalised towing-endorsement for Australian drivers – instead of state-by-state based regulations and standards.
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