Toyota Australia has unveiled a custom-built electric stage vehicle for The Wiggles, drawing design inspiration from the iconic FJ Cruiser. This unique creation, dubbed the 'Big Red Ute,' combines nostalgic styling with child-friendly features for the beloved children's entertainment group.
The Big Red Ute is a specially designed stage car that marks a new partnership between Toyota and The Wiggles. Built by Toyota's Australian Design team, this electric vehicle brings together retro-inspired design with modern entertainment features for stage performances.
Exterior Design:
- FJ Cruiser-inspired styling with distinctive front-end design
- Compact dimensions: 3120mm long and 1620mm tall
- 12-inch Rainbow Turbofan wheels with Toyota centre caps
- LED headlights programmed to work as 'eyes'
Interior and Comfort:
- Seating capacity for four Wiggles members
- Wiggles Yellow-colored front and rear bench seats
- Retractable seatbelts for safety
- Compact yet functional stage-ready design
Performance:
- Powered by a 48-volt DC electric motor
- Rear-wheel drive configuration
- Top speed of 20km/h
- Independent coil-over suspension
- Rear drum brakes
Technology:
- Commercial-grade bubble machine producing 6,000 bubbles per minute
- Programmable LED lighting system
- Rack and pinion steering system
Safety:
- Built-in safety features including retractable seatbelts
- Low-speed operation for stage use
- Sturdy construction for entertainment purposes
Practicality:
- Purpose-built for stage performances
- Compact dimensions for easy maneuverability
- Will tour with The Wiggles across Australia and worldwide
The Big Red Ute represents a creative fusion of automotive design and entertainment. By combining the rugged spirit of the FJ Cruiser with the playful essence of The Wiggles, Toyota has created a vehicle that's both functional for stage performances and visually captivating for young audiences.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, collaborations like this demonstrate how car manufacturers can think outside the box, creating vehicles that serve unique purposes beyond traditional transportation.
