Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Gets a Green Makeover with Electric Power

The 1960s Land Cruiser FJ40
Equipped with an electric powertrain
Returned with a modernized look

A British company called Inverted, famous for its projects to modernize classic vehicles, has unveiled a new project to restore the 1960 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40. This project involves replacing the FJ40’s existing gasoline engine with an electric powertrain.

Inverted revived the 1960s Land Cruiser FJ40, a trailblazer among off-roaders, with a modern twist. This new version allows buyers to select from various wheelbase lengths to suit their preferences. Additionally, Tesla’s electric motors are now an option for those interested in an electric powertrain, offering enhanced power and efficiency.

The manual shifter remains intact
Tesla electric powertrain can be used

The gasoline engine of the classic off-roader Land Cruiser FJ40 was replaced with a single electric motor that produces 215 horsepower and 34 kgf.m of torque. The FJ40’s manual shifter has been retained, and drivers can easily switch between 2WD and 4WD using the optional electrically operated locking differential.

Tesla’s electric powertrain option is also available for those who want more power, delivering 320 horsepower and 42 kgf.m of torque. However, it is only available in 4WD and mated to an automatic transmission. “The biggest change in the FJ40 is the ability to start smoothly with varying torque levels in all gears,” said the FJ40 modernization project manager.

A 53kWh battery pack has been installed
allowing a maximum driving range of 150 miles

The modernized FJ40 has a 53 kWh battery pack and can provide a driving range of up to 241 km (150 miles). Additionally, it is said to be compatible with CCS chargers of up to 75kW, enabling charging from 25% to 80% in just 25 minutes. Additionally, the chassis was upgraded, and the Old Man Emu suspension was installed. A new large disc brake chassis from Toyota or Wilwood was installed.

For consumers, Inverted offers short wheelbase (FJ40), medium wheelbase (FJ43), and long wheelbase (FJ45) versions. Consumers can also choose between left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD). It can be built in various body styles, including hardtop, softtop, station wagon, or pickup truck.

Infotainment, touch screen, etc.
Equipped with modern convenience features

The modified FJ40’s interior is covered in new Bridge of Weir leather. New floor mats and a customized center console were installed. The interior features have been upgraded with modern conveniences, such as an infotainment touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, a rearview camera, A/C, and LED lighting.

Harry Millington, founder of Inverted, said, “People who want a modernized FJ40 will have their vision, such as whether they want to have big wheels or maintain the classic look, and we have been modifying the vehicle to reflect the needs of consumers as much as possible.” Meanwhile, the starting price of the Land Cruiser FJ40 with an electric powertrain is expected to be approximately $225,000.