Toyota revives FJ Cruiser as The Wiggles' new stage car

12/06/2024 02:00 AM

The Toyota and The Wiggles team-up is now official with the former building a new 'Big Red Ute' for the latter to use on stage and tour around the country.

According to Toyota, the Big Red Ute stage car's design is "based off a Toyota FJ Cruiser" – a retro-themed rugged off-roader that was on sale in Australia from 2011-2016 – and allows for full functionality while on show.

Measuring 3120mm long, 1620mm tall and with a 1937mm wheelbase, the stage car features seating for four, meaning the other four members of the band, as well as Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog, and Henry the Octopus will have to walk.

Powered by a 48-volt electric motor, the Big Red Ute stage car sends drive to the rear wheels, and features a top speed of 20km/h.

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However, Toyota has ensured a degree of comfort and compliance thanks to independent coil-over suspension, as well as rear drum brakes.

Filling out the wheel arches are 12-inch turbofan wheels, finished in a multitude of colours and Toyota centre caps.

However, the most noteworthy feature of the Big Red Ute is its rear-mounted bubble machine, capable of expelling 6000 bubbles per minute.

This new stage car joins the HiLux with The Wiggles colours, which was revealed in October as part of the group's new song, Big Red Ute, and confirmation that the band will be at the Toyota-sponsored Tamworth Country Music Festival in early 2025.

Developed by the Toyota Australia Product, Planning and Development department, headed up by lead designer Michael Mills, the new Big Red Ute stage car will make its debut at The Wiggles Wiggle and Learn Big Show in Melbourne on Saturday, December 7.

Speaking on the project, Mills said the approach to the Big Red Ute stage car is the same as any other new model from Toyota.

"From the initial creative ideation process to the final, functional model build, every step has been an adventure filled with fun and excitement," Mills said.

"We were thrilled when we were approached to design and develop the Big Red Ute stage car, and the team wanted to ensure every detail of the vehicle captured the fun and vibrant spirit of The Wiggles."

Meanwhile, founding member and Blue Wiggle Anthony Field said he expects the new set of wheels to resonate with kids around the world.

"Thanks to Toyota, this new addition is packed with fun, moveable gadgets and gizmos, and is sure to fuel excitement for Wiggles fans for years to come," Field said.

"Buck up – it's going to be a Wiggly ride."

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