HIACE 4x4 Off-Road FIRST IMPRESSIONS and PROJECT AIMS

#vanlife #overlanding #4x4
First drive of the Hiace 4wd off-road. First trial. FIrst impressions. Nothing more. And we reveals the project aims.
This is a starting point for a technology demonstrator by EGON.COM.AU
Support Andrew: www.4xoverland.com/support/
4XOVERLAND is the home of Andrew St Pierre White’s work. Andrew, AKA ASPW, is one of the world’s best-respected 4×4 writers, commentators and adventure-travel filmmakers. So much so that he is now commonly referred to by his audience as ’ The David Attenborough of 4WD’. His work includes:
ALSO . . .
Inspiring and teaching the world’s overlanders @ www.overland-workshop.com/
Teaching video storytelling @ www.beafilmmaker.com/
Building of remarkable 4wd exploration rigs @www.4xoverland.com/hero-build...
2024 and Andrew is celebrating 40 years of remote overland travel with two new 4wd builds in Australia and three expeditions that include Africa, Australia and Indonesia. 4xOverland is based in Western Australia.
SHOP: 4xoverland.com/shop
INSTAGRAM: / 4xoverland_com

[@joshhenchman9810]

Honestly, I wouldn’t worry about getting rid of the Troopy. This thing will look tough as heck with some off-road accessories, a paint job/ wrap and some different wheels/ tyres. Tired of seeing 70 series content all over KZbin (you were one of the originals and did it justice so you are forgiven) but I feel like this build, if done tastefully, will bring a far bigger and more enthusiastic audience than what you already have from Landcruiser content. A 4x4 bus is so refreshing to see and will undoubtedly be the envy on many 4x4 and travel enthusiasts. This WILL be the car you turn around and admire at your camp sites. Imaging the Ronny Dahl episode in the future on it too!

[@jaygatsby2790]

AGREE!

[@davidmilledge221]

If done correctly it's a massive game changer

[@cryptidhunter9901]

Real overlanders on a tight budget, often use old 4WD vans. This brand new troopy build thing is mostly done by wealthy secret society youtubers with lots of corporate connections.

[@drew5763]

Vans have always been noisy but kitted out should fix that

[@Alan.livingston]

And it’s not like he won’t get bored of this in a week once it’s done and sell it to start another troopy.

[@MrCheh]

Once you throw some gear in it and give it some weight in the rear it will be substantially better and have less rear wheel spin on the simple stuff. Articulation will also feel better.

[@Jacobtheunwise]

My thought to considering the 2wds are way better with weight in them in every aspect I can imagine this would be the same case

[@oggyoggy1299]

@@Jacobtheunwise In every aspect….besides acceleration, braking, cornering, fuel efficiency.

[@heathwellsNZ]

Wow, this ongoing project will be undoubtedly the best offroading/overlanding content on KZbin this year! Very very excited to follow along your journey!

[@johnvaneeden1455]

This will change the Taxi industry in South Africa for ever !

[@StuFrodsham]

Nah SA taxi's go anywhere already !

[@NathanDuP]

You won't be able to keep it in SA, will be stolen as soon as it's in your driveway and the insurance on it will be grossly over priced because of its steal-ability and use of parts in the taxi industry.

[@lancerutherford3933]

Previous generation of hiace came in 4wd, though

[@robvanzyl5017]

Lesotho have a lot of 4x4 taxi's for many years. Just getting on with the job and putting overlanders to shame.

[@erhardt1477]

So … to sum things up… Andrew : „I’m not doing a direct comparison, driving first the van and then the troopy“ Heiner : „Andrew is driving the same piece of road to do a direct comparison, between the van and the troopy“ Thx guys for clearing that up 😂😂😂 The van looks amazing, can’t wait to see the progress sir 👍

[@okaadventures3446]

Our OKA motorhome is running a 48v system, combined with a Victron RS 6000 Multi with 12Kw of stored energy & all electrical appliances are 240v. Cost savings in cable size & weight plus the cost savings of appliances over 12v. Very excited to see this project proceeding, great work guys.

[@derJackistweg]

but you will still loose roughly 15% by DC>AC, all day long. And again a part of that when charging AC>DC, like Phones, Cam, PC ect.

[@kopeducati]

@@derJackistweg 12Kw battery bank will take you a loooong way ... ( depending on solar array )

[@derJackistweg]

@@kopeducati ?

[@kopeducati]

@@derJackistweg yep .. ?

[@derJackistweg]

What are you talking about? I am talking about the bad efficiency of transforming AC into DC. Looks like you do nothing about that, go ahead and learn. Has nothing to do with the size of the battery as 15% is 15%, weather on 12KW or 3KW, or or or or

[@johnlee4681]

Screw all the negative comments, I was excited for this when you announced it, just the same now!

[@ToyBJ]

Love a new unknown Andrew, so many questions and trials to do. I look forward to watching this build with much interest.👍🍻

[@Wanderhirsch]

4 person 4 sleeper is what i am looking forward to see 😃 love the collab!

[@mildew4449]

Full salivation mode ON!!! As more of a van guy myself (vanlifer for over 15 years), this is gonna rock! This will totally do it out in the bush, no doubt about it. A pity we can't get anything similar in my side of the woods. Can't wait to see this epic build! Send it guys!!!

[@cch201992]

I'm new to van life and bruh what has the overland community been doing a van is the perfect overlander🤷🏼‍♂️lol Change my mind😅

[@TheWrongBrother]

In East Africa, hiaces do bus taxi services ferrying 12 passengers ... this is a load of at least 600kg - 800kg constant doing 300km daily. Its normal to see them hit 800,000 km on the odo. This is a great choice and is basically bullet proof stock ... and with those powertrain updates should last decades.

[@user-wq2on7ru6y]

В России , в Якутии очень популярны Hiace , предыдущего поколения(200) .И там они перевозят много груза и пассажиров , даже без 4 ВД....круглый год и в морозы -60C

[@taurota1554]

Like the variety of content on the channel.Thanks for sharing and taking us along

[@christopherkimbell3497]

It reminds me of my Sprinter 4x4. Momentum is important, each obstacle and dynamic demands a specific amount with specific timing as you cross the obstacle. It’s actually a fun drive, especially for a seasoned offroad driver. You will go to many wonderful remote places in that van.

[@jurgenkrebbekx4329]

Epic already,you two are so much fun to watch,I’m so looking forward to this build with you both, so much knowledge and the willingness to experiment and seeing no limits,fantastic ‼️

[@andrewhall4553]

Power line track and Pea gravel the perfect testing combo and all in your back yard!!!

[@Ben198809]

Super excited for this build - please keep the updates coming Andrew, no matter how small. Especially keen for Heiner's 48V plans, so awesome seeing new ideas come to life

[@djevlhelvete]

I am just so happy I found this channel right at this moment in time...That's a fantastic project!

[@equestrianalways6132]

My delica 4x4 would struggle for traction when empty. But when weight is added over the rear axle it becomes 4 x more capable

[@user-wq2on7ru6y]

Нету лучше велика (велосипед) , чем Митсубиси Делика😂

[@oliverstyant-browne8680]

Very excited to see how the van evolves. This is the most interested I have been in a series for some time. Can’t wait!

[@stephenfox8922]

The camaraderie between you two is a joy to watch it’s going to be a epic build.

[@iamgeoffandthisismystory]

Most exciting build in a looong time! Having Heiner involved brings a fresh dynamic to the channel too😆 Well done! Can't wait to see it on a trip💪🏻

[@johndunn5767]

I’m so excited for this new build. I think it’s going to be a game changer for the overland community in Australia. Great job fellas 👍

[@peterofnewcastle6602]

Why did you not have BUS4x4 install their underbody protection kit? It provides great shielding both under the engine and under the running gear. I have taken my Hiace 4x4 to the top of Cape York as well as Fraser Island and many other offroad adventures. The van performs better off road once it is loaded with a camper fitout. As usual, running the tallest tyres possible and adjusting tyre pressures assist greatly when offroad. Sadly the wheel travel is about the same as a commodore.

[@davidhammond5264]

I have been considering a Hiace 4x4 for myself so it is great to see Andrew testing it out for me. Sliding doors on a van are so practical in town.

[@Belldin_Ordi]

I am looking forward to see the outcome of this project as I have been thinking of a van to tour around Oz with the Mrs in a few years time.

[@andrewsharman4419]

Loving the content and the collaboration between you two. This will be epic!

[@seanchristie7150]

Fantastic to see something new, can't wait to see the fit out

[@AccFinEco]

Best 4WD review l have seen in years. Well done. Wish there were more reviews like this.

[@salahuddinkhan7694]

This VAN 4x4 has the ability to overcome almost all aspects of an actual overlanding vehicle,,,very good experiment and keep it up 🎉🎉🎉

[@petermcguinness8222]

I can't wait. Hurry up and build it immediately please.

[@JasonWh]

As I posted before, you taught me to drive in sand over the years. I know I mentioned I bought a fully configured PowerWagon and replaced the suspension with all King racing suspension, a goFastCamper and a TON more. I just bought another project, a '24 Subaru Outback Wilderness where I'll be lifting it 3 inches, installing coilovers with reservoirs, rear locker, 33's, full underbody protection and more! I will say the outback is really capable in sand from factory. Looking forward to the fun of a Subaru with lockers!

[@petrilabuschagne]

Looking forward to this build. Will definitely follow this.

[@steverichardson7462]

Hi Andrew... I couldn't help think that when you were chatting with Heiner there was a very strong resemblance to Ernie Wise 😂... No disrespect intended.

[@itslev4404]

I bloody love this idea. I look forward to the journey!!

[@JoshSinnott97]

I'm not sure if the demand is there for it, but a gap in the interior for a dirt bike would be unreal

[@petrbenda3406]

Definitely. I would like to see not only dirt bikes, but also normal bikes, e-bikes and other large things that are too impractical for pickup trucks and SUVs. The need to carry an e-bike (and charge it while on the move) made me to even consider vans for overlanding in the first place.

[@sumsija79]

Agree. Have been looking for something that will carry me, my 2 sons and our toys for a while now!

[@rawnature8148]

Heaps of people use vans as touring vehicles/houses.

[@stephanematis]

Dead on comment.

[@jmpersonal2402]

Looks a great truck, Andrew. I am tempted now!

[@josedarrylalano8356]

Can’t wait!! I will just follow your template gents 🎉

[@jordanhamilton2523]

You guys are classic! Great combo

[@aussievaliant4949]

Very exciting for sure! I look forward to each episode, but you have upped the ante in my anticipation.

[@anthonymorris479]

Excited for this build.

[@MarkRose1337]

This is an exciting project!

[@MacSaxe]

You've basically built a forward control troopy - love it

[@petrbenda3406]

Looking forward to more content with this rig and offroad vans in general!

[@Harleyglide03]

This is going to be an interesting build. Can’t wait to see it.

[@edstar81]

looking forward to this series

[@erikcele1604]

This Will be amazing thing to follow! Cool good luck! ❤

[@philipstrydomstrydom1821]

Great , thinking out the box.

[@motoface5984]

So excited to watch the rest of this series as I’m really leaning towards a HiAce conversion

[@lesklower7281]

Looking forward to the progress on the Hiace van by the way looks so cool l am so used to seeing the normal Hiace vans driving around but converting the Hiace to 4X4 puts it on another level

[@tiakontikiadventures1536]

Genuinely Impressed with the ground clearance seen on the Hiace. I have a 4motion VW Transporter SWB camper conversion for x4 (Pop top), and even with the 35mm lift, I still find cautious driving is the way to go. Looking foward to the future vlogs!

[@chappie143]

I'm very keen to see it with a wrap and a bull bar! That will make a break the look of this Kombi.

[@TechLuv]

Can't wait to see it after repainting with adventure/safari colours and offroad bullbar.

[@ulrichkristensen4087]

Looking forward to the build, interesting choice. When you presented the Iveco 4x4 i thought maybe that would be a future choice, but i understand your quarrels with getting in and out , this is going to be fun watching.

[@daves7104]

This is such an exciting build!

[@joshuabriggs7114]

Very exciting!

[@glennstatham960]

I love how you put our vehicle through a very good test. (The spare tyre is only creaking because it's not tight enough)

[@rubiconned]

I like this. This is an exciting project

[@roy_geebz]

Cant wait to see how it goes with 2 tonnes of 48volt wizardry in the back 👌 very cool project team.

[@rajeshramkawal8266]

Rear diff lock is an absolute must , front unit a nice to have . Especially in this configuration to give you best of breed tractability

[@gavinsmith28]

Good luck! Looks interesting….

[@oldage001]

Looks great!

[@DavidLeane-cp2lz]

So refreshing to see a driver that lifts there foot when it spins instead of flooring it digging great big holes and wrecking the track for everyone else. I have the extra long high roof version of the hiace. Been living in it for 3 years. I believe it's a better option than towing a caravan. 48 volts sounds interesting and to see how it's done.

[@outdooraussie6355]

I'm keen. Been talking for years about the lack of 4x4 van options in Oz... might be my next upgrade. Can't wait to see it come together... 👍👏

[@martintokau7326]

Great video guys was talking about this a hiace camper that was also off road capable also very well interested to see how this project turns out. Keep up the good work.

[@QLDPATTERSON]

I am so very keen to see how you do the 48v setup

[@andrewjones-productions]

Yes. Me too. I am not electrically minded AT ALL, but I am very interested in seeing what solutions and challenges 48v brings.

[@autoglassmike]

Great series guys looking forward to the build. I have an eseries ford van 4x4 here in USA and love it. I think the hiace is going to be awesome.

[@hoodyr6799]

Loving that 48V direction Heiner...! 👌

[@ee233]

This looks exciting.

[@Ed-wy2di]

Looking forward to this build. Something different for a change.

[@jarrod1687]

Very interested in the upcoming 4x4 hiace series

[@jmginthent651]

Keen to see the van in the hands of experienced 4x4 drivers 👍

[@eliwgreen]

Have known about the 4x4 bus conversion for some time. There are a few driving around Karratha where I live and I have always wondered what the possibility’s would be making one into a touring vehicle, I have many of the same questions. Can’t wait to follow this build. This project will be incredibly interesting. Hopefully in the future Toyota could do this from factory 🤷‍♂️ without sacrificing the troopy of course.

[@KL00100]

I love the A-Team reference. 😂👍

[@forsh3546]

Just waiting for the wrap to be black with a red stripe now! I love it when a plan comes together!

[@asimrc]

Very excited for these billed.Looking forward to the as p.Touch

[@harryhcs]

damn! cant wait for this truck to develop into a beast! so cool

[@DenisKz]

I'm exited, I want one.

[@-WondersofCreation]

Well done Lads👍

[@angusmurray6578]

As a new dad those 4X4 adventures and long term travel options do really change! You can't really do it in a wagon anymore for longer trips. Looking forward to this series. I am hoping this type of vehicle goes relatively remote...super interesting!

[@paulwatson2569]

I always loved the idea of a van as a overland vehicle Once you add some accessories and sort a few things out it will be a great vehicle I am seriously thinking about this for myself Love it

[@matthewlewis-zw3tf]

I like your new van! Love the 2.8L Turbo Diesel. Just bought a 2.8L Turbo Diesel for a project Nissan 4 door Frontier 4x4, with 5spd manual gearbox and 2 spd transfer case. Will put 35 inch tires on it and a 4 inch lift. I'm very excited.

[@grannieannie1371]

This has always been my dream. I came across the ibus conversions and thought yes this could be supercool for a proper off road camper. It will be cool to see how their version of the dream compares to mine.

[@MrC1N3]

Front Swaybar disconects for trails. Weight will help the flex as well. Nice project.

[@robertjohnston3099]

Totally agree! Front sway bar disconnect, estimate touring weight, tune shocks and springs to suit.

[@danieldvir6927]

This is the kind of video's I like

[@sasquatchfoote8235]

The Van will be a lot better with more weight in it. Can wait to see👍🏻

[@rcfp2006]

I love 4x4 vans! I'll miss my L400 Delica until my last breath.

[@johntanchong3166]

Wow getting very interesting.

[@garthfairfield]

Awesome guys wish I could have one

[@principal7819]

I’m more excited about this build than anything else since I saw your first Australia troops build. If this ends up being what we expect it to be, that’s what I’m going to buy.

[@salahuddinkhan7694]

GOD BLESS 🙌 🎉😊YOU BOTH ❤️ GENIUS AND KIND HEART HUMAN BEINGS 😊.

[@landcruisertroopytouringan2166]

You are pioneers… mark my comment….. as this will definitely become something big. Well done 👍

[@antonreyment8945]

This is going to be a fun ride.

[@sunshinecatcher8779]

Looks great fun

[@CampfireCruising]

Great video, that vantage point as a driver has to be spectacular, more like a UTV than most road vehicles.

[@lancerutherford3933]

Love it

[@michaelhermans4753]

Interesting project

[@waynesimmons2850]

Super interesting project

[@jacobusvanderlaarse2942]

Wooow Soooo existing to see the final product, especially with the 48v inverter system.

[@doron323]

Can’t wait for the 48V system development!!!

[@michaelwiechelmann1090]

I already want one!

[@chrisharris4047]

love the A-team comparison