Transformation is done in Thailand and can also be used in models from other brands, such as Triton and Ranger; There is even a 6x2 option
In Brazil, pickup trucks have gained the status of passenger vehicles and, in many cases, are used more in the city than in heavy work. But in Thailand, these models follow a very different path: there, it is common for pickup trucks to be transformed into true mini-trucks, with a much higher load capacity than the original.
While in Brazil the adaptations usually respect the technical limits defined by manufacturers and legislation, as with single-cab pickup trucks used by energy and sanitation concessionaires, in Thailand some specialized companies go further and even modify the suspension structure to significantly increase the load capacity.
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One of the companies that make this conversion, RRS Rungrueng Group 101, works with the manufacture of implements in general, but for pickup trucks, they go further and even change the load capacity and make them go from conventional one ton to up to five tons, especially in versions with a tipper bed.
According to the company’s website, for the model to reach five tons, with the tilting implement, the suspension, which originally has five spring beams, now has ten, in addition to reinforced clamps are installed. New shock absorbers are also installed, in a basic way, the model gains a whole new suspension. The rear axle next to the differential is also changed, to support all the weight. Finally, another change is the wheels and tires.
The tipper versions use an electro-hydraulic system similar to that of conventional trucks. An electric power take-off activates the hydraulic pump, which sends oil to the piston responsible for lifting the bucket.
Of the most common models for this conversion, it is the Toyota Hilux Travo, single cab and the champion. The model costs, according to the automaker’s website in Thailand, 767,000 Thai Baht, which in direct conversion, is 126,900 thousand reais. However, the company offers conversion for the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Frontier and Isuzu MAX. The modification can cost from 100,000 baht, something close to R$ 16 thousand.
In addition to the dump beds, there are other configurations available. Some pickup trucks receive larger bodies to increase the volume transported, while others can be equipped with cranes
Recently, the company also presented an even more unusual version: a pickup with a 6×2 configuration and a suspension rear axle. As the model is new, there is still no detailed information about load capacity or technical specifications.
These transformations show how the pickup can take on very different functions depending on the market. While in Brazil it is getting closer and closer to a luxury car, in Thailand it continues to be a work tool, in some cases, even replacing small trucks.
