Hilux-Based Camper is a Killer Take on the Classic Chinook
While not US-spec, this Hilux-based rig offers another intriguing look at how to turn a Toyota truck into a go-anywhere camper.
Back in 2021, Toyota brought a modern version of the beloved Chinook to SEMA, and the TacoZilla quickly became the talk of the show. Unfortunately, like many of the vehicles on display at the big show in Sin City, it was a one-off build, and there are currently no plans to put it into production. But we’ve just discovered another take on the classic camper, courtesy of our friends at CarSccops, and it looks fantastic. Meet the Direct Cars BR75.
Now, since Direct Cars is a Japanese company, this rig is based on the Toyota Hilux, which isn’t available in the States. So don’t get your credit cards out just yet. That said, the smart money says that the next-generation Tacoma, which is due to be announced any day, will share many of the same hard points as its international sibling. Which means the idea of a US-spec version of the BR75 might not be as far-fetched as it might currently seem.
Like the original Chinook, there’s a pop-up roof and a pass-through from the cab into the living quarters. According to the Direct Cars site, there’s room to sleep two adults and two children, and since the truck retains its Double Cab, there will be more than enough room for everyone when it’s time to get moving. Unlike the TacoZilla concept, there’s no toilet on board, though the waterproof “bathroom” does feature a drain and a showerhead.
While there’s no proper kitchen, there is a refrigerator, and the BR75 features a supplementary air conditioner to keep everything cool. There’s also a deep cycle 200Ah battery to provide power for various devices, which can be recharged via both the truck’s alternator and a roof-mounted solar panel. Depending on how it’s optioned, the BR75 can carry over 27 gallons of water for drinking and is equipped with a 12-gallon gray water tank.
With all of that kit, not to mention the killer design, the BR75 isn’t cheap. Prices start at around $85,000 for one based on a basic Hilux and climb to $94,000 for one based on the beefier Z-GR Sports model. Now, that’s hardly chump change, and there’s no mention of any mechanical reinforcements to help handle the extra weight of the camper. But it’s not outrageous to see well-heeled Overlanding enthusiasts ponying up, particularly given the truck’s off-roading capabilities. Let’s just cross our fingers that a domestic company sees a market for something similar…
Photos: Direct Cars