Patriot builds SEMA show-stopper

Queensland's Patriot Campers has done it again, unveiling its latest 4x4 mega-tourer that it plans to take over and display at the SEMA aftermarket show in Las Vegas later this year.

Combining a rusty 'rat rod' look with countless 4WD upgrades and latest electronics, the jacked-up Patriot FJ49 'Cruiser is described as a "powerful fusion between an immaculately restored FJ45 LandCruiser, with the full engine and driveline capabilities of Australia’s most reliable vehicle to date, a modern-day 79 Series LandCruiser". 

While building some of Australia's most desirable off-road tent trailers, Gold Coast based Patriot has a history of producing pumped-up off-road vehicles, from six-wheeler show-stoppers to high-flying trophy trucks.

The latest Patriot FJ49 is claimed to be a "world first", and started life as a clapped out FJ45 single cab long-wheelbase LandCruiser ute, before Patriot set to work and over a period of 18 months made hundreds of changes and improvements including dropping in mechanicals from a more modern 79 Series LandCruiser.

The long list of off-road add-ons include Harrop Eaton Elockers, a PWR Performance radiator and intercooler, JMACX diff upgrade, stainless steel exhaust, custom barwork, PCOR wheels with BFGoodrich rubber, a Warn winch, XRay Vision LED lightbars, and Redarc electronics to power a 55L Dometic fridge, while a Patina paintjob with matching Maxtrax planks and custom interior fit-out complete the unique look.

The old-meets-new custom 'Cruiser is also set up for towing one of the latest Patriot campers with all the required attachments and wiring including a Redarc TowPro brake controller.