the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems

SMT Scharf Africa has taken one of the country’s most beloved bakkies, the Toyota Land Cruiser 79, and converted it to run on pure electricity.

However, the company made clear that its Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) is not the next competitor to Tesla’s Cybertruck.

The bakkie is built mainly to operate in mines – where noise, vibrations, and emissions in tight underground spaces are the main issues it’s addressing.

It’s also doing this quite successfully, with left-hand-drive units currently being assembled for customers as far away as Canada, said Scharf.

The company designed and hand-built the electrical underpinnings on local soil, and it kindly invited TopAuto to its premises in Johannesburg to have a look at its impressive operations and find out more about this Toyota.

Under the hood

The Scharf LEV looks like a standard beefed-up Land Cruiser from the outside – until the bonnet is popped.

Under here, what you see is a huge orange battery pack and plugs and sleeves going in every direction, instead of a diesel motor.

Scharf’s lead design engineer explained that they remove the diesel engine, along with components that are traditionally powered by the motor such as the alternator, steering pump, and airconditioner – and replace these with electrically-powered parts.

A “permanent magnet synchronous” electric motor is positioned where the driveshaft would usually be, whereas the battery pack is installed on the existing engine mounts.

Scharf said it imports its electric drivetrain components from reputable brands that meet stringent safety requirements.

The 40.24kWh lithium-ion battery features “premium NMC cells” that meet high standards, and the onboard charger accommodates larger power ratings than those on conventional electric vehicles (EV), leading to minimal downtime for charging during operating hours.

Operators can expect 100% charge to be reached in 6 hours and 30 minutes on a standard 220V wall socket, 2 hours and 30 minutes on a 3-phase 380V wall socket, and 43 minutes on a 120kW DC fast charger.

For battery protection, Scharf makes use of its proprietary liquid-cooled casing that it said offers industry-leading protection in case of an accident.

“Having good expertise, we built up our own design and quality standards for our batteries, which is much more comprehensive [than the current commercial standards],” it said.

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems

Furthermore, the electric motor in this Land Cruiser is generally used for trucks and buses, and therefore provides sufficient power, robustness, vibration protection, and ingress protection for underground use.

The motor also connects straight to the Toyota transfer case, allowing it to still provide 2H, 4H, and 4L modes of operation.

At peak, the electric powertrain puts out 100kW and 1,000Nm – whereas during normal operation it provides a continuous 60kW and 600Nm.

Brake energy recuperation is another ability of the system. The electric motor perceptibly brakes the vehicle on downhills – of which there are many in a mine – and feeds power back into the motor for increased range and lower brake wear.

Finally, Scharf installs its own Electronic Control Unit (ECU) alongside the Toyota-made ECU to permanently monitor all its systems.

When all is said and done, the Scharf LEV weighs around 2.5 tonnes and offers a driving range between 150-180km, a top speed of 145km/h, and a maximum incline scaleability of 45 degrees.

Barring the reduced range, the noiseless LEV offers improved occupant comfort and enhanced off-road abilities compared to its standard siblings, and Scharf said it’s just as competent as before in doing its daily duties, if not more so.

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems

Inside

Inside the cabin, Scharf kept almost everything standard except for the centre console and driver’s display, which are custom for the LEV.

Additionally, the floor is rubberized and metal plates are bolted on the door sills to enhance robustness.

In line with mining regulations, there’s also a fire suppression system installed between the front seats, an emergency ignition lock that kicks in as soon as a door opens, and a roll bar that sees the height of the roof lifted by a few centimetres.

However, interior space and comfort are equal to that of the standard bakkie.

Scharf said the double-cab model we test drove is usually reserved for shuffling executives and businessmen up and down deep mines, and we don’t think they’ll complain about amenities anytime soon.

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems

Cost of conversion

Currently, Scharf does electric conversions for both the Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux, and for commercial and private clients alike.

The company has been stockpiling parts since the start of the pandemic to ensure availability, as the biggest hurdle it’s currently facing is supply-chain constraints and component shortages, it said.

Clients looking to convert their Toyota will pay around R1.5 million, excluding the price of the vehicle.

It can also be customised to tailor-made specifications to suit even more niche purposes.

“Although this initial conversion cost seems massive, similar to solar generation systems, the investment is extremely attractive over a long term, with a worst-case (<100 km/day) break-even point of 48 months compared to the high operating costs of equivalent diesel Land Cruisers,” said Scharf.

“With the increasing oil prices, we calculated a 96% decreased operating costs compared to the equivalent 4.5L V8 engine.”

The company is already busy building a number of LEVs for a customer who wanted to give their old mine bakkies new life instead of decommissioning them.

“Our target market is the global underground mining market, where clean ventilation air is a major aspect of any operation,” said Scharf.

Scharf said its zero-emission conversions will allow businesses to reduce ventilation expenses, improve underground conditions for employees, and decrease their overall carbon footprint.

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems

How it drives

The Scharf LEV drives almost exactly like a standard Land Cruiser 79 – that is, tractor-like.

However, it’s surprisingly nimble and effortless, and thanks to the electric motor it’s so quiet that pedestrians must be hooted at before they notice you’re there.

We took it around an empty parking lot as well as over a small dirt track in Scharf’s backyard to get a rough idea of what the LEV can do, and it didn’t seem like it was any less capable than its petrol and diesel siblings.

The 600Nm of torque is delivered generously and you only need light inputs on the throttle to make it crawl over steep obstacles or through deep ruts.

It also doesn’t do break-neck accelerations like EVs are generally known for, but has a decent jump in its step and gets up to legal speeds rather easily.

The heavy-duty suspension installed by Scharf makes the ride stiffer than normal, but not by much – and although the substantial weight is noticeable when turning a corner, the big dampers do well to manage the pitch and yaw of the body.


Scharf LEV

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems


Scharf LEV assembly

the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems
the electric toyota land cruiser that solves mining problems


Keyword: The electric Toyota Land Cruiser that solves mining problems

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Here’s Everything You Get In The Base 2024 Toyota Tacoma

The steel wheels say “work truck,” but adaptive cruise and push-button start were the stuff of luxury cars only a few years ago.

View more: Here’s Everything You Get In The Base 2024 Toyota Tacoma

Toyota to sell massive $4.7B stake in top supplier as it looks to catch up in EV race

Toyota is securing substantial funding as it looks to catch up in the EV race. Sources close to the matter say Toyota and its affiliates will sell a stake of around $4.7B in Denso, the second-largest global auto supplier. Toyota plans to sell around 10% (roughly $4.7 billion) of ...

View more: Toyota to sell massive $4.7B stake in top supplier as it looks to catch up in EV race

The Crown Signia Is A Wagon Regardless Of What Toyota Says

Image: Toyota American car buyers, for the most part, are not fans of wagons. The long roof body style has almost disappeared from the U.S. car market with only a few models remaining. There is the ever-popular Subaru Outback, and some more expensive options from Audi, Mercedes, and Volvo. ...

View more: The Crown Signia Is A Wagon Regardless Of What Toyota Says

Five most affordable automatic cars in South Africa

Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL Auto – R188,900 Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen Auto – R212,999 Proton Saga 1.3 Standard Auto – R224,900 Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL Auto – R225,900 Toyota Vitz 1.0 XR Auto – R239,900 When it comes to city driving, an automatic gearbox is one of the best ...

View more: Five most affordable automatic cars in South Africa

2024 Toyota Tacoma First Drive: A Sure Bet Remains So

•    Auto123 gets in a first drive of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. Toronto, ON – This past May, Toyota unveiled the new generation of its Tacoma pickup truck. That happened in Hawaii, an exotic locale to be sure, but it happens to be where the model has been the best-selling ...

View more: 2024 Toyota Tacoma First Drive: A Sure Bet Remains So

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $32,995

It’s still one of the most affordable trucks in the segment.

View more: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $32,995

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Adds Some Polish But Keeps The Fun

Thanks to a torquey, 270-hp four-cylinder and an available six-speed manual, the new Taco is a charmer.

View more: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Adds Some Polish But Keeps The Fun

Toyota Selling Shorty Land Cruiser 70 For $46,000 But There’s A Catch

The Land Cruiser 70 Series will turn 40 next year but it's still going strong.

View more: Toyota Selling Shorty Land Cruiser 70 For $46,000 But There’s A Catch

Exclusive: Toyota group companies plan $4.7 billion sale of Denso stake

How I ended up buying a Cooper S Clubman instead of the BMW M2

2024 Toyota Camry NASCAR Cup Series Contender Gets The Road Car's New Looks

The Only New Toyota Camry That Won't Be A Hybrid Is Racing In NASCAR

New Toyota Hilux Champ – Engines and interior revealed

Britain hopes to attract investment from Chinese carmakers - minister

You Can Buy Toyota's Tiny $13,000 Work Truck But Not In The US

Stromer’s ST3 Urban E-Bike Goes Fancy With Minimalist Design, Modern Tech

Italy, Saudi Arabia discuss investments in automotive, mining, oil

Kia Sonet Vs Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Price, Engine Specs & Dimensions Comparison

The Toyota Corolla GR Sport - Unassuming, Uncompromising Thrills

Affordable hatchbacks with the best warranties in South Africa

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel