Viral photos of a customised Toyota Prado TX 95 modified into a pickup elicited debate regarding the vehicle's unique design and functionality.
Much of the debate online was based on the Prado's frame design and long-wheelbase capabilities and how it could serve the purpose of a pickup in terms of transporting goods.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, car expert Miller Kyalo pointed out that three key factors had to be considered when assessing such modifications: the cost of the vehicle, the cost of conversion and the practicality factor.
In terms of chassis, he noted that the pickup is divided into two parts for flexibility purposes: Cabin (the inside space in a truck where the driver is seated) and the cargo beds which are available in different lengths depending on the vehicle.
He added that overloading the modified vehicle would compromise the chassis of the entire vehicle as it lacked the capacity to hold weight.
Further, according to the expert, pickups have lower horsepower and torque ratings, but with higher fuel economy potential.
Kyalo also questioned the purpose of spending all the money on the Prado's maintenance coupled with the high cost of conversion to a pickup.
"If the owner wanted a pickup, he would have gotten a better deal by trading the vehicle and acquiring a pickup," he indicated.
The expert added that the entire modifications generally lowered the value of the vehicle as he questioned how many motorists would purchase it.
On the hand, he commended the creativity of the owner to innovate - highlighting that it would be the future of automobiles.
Kyalo noted that for such modifications, the owner is required to change the type in the logbook to a commercial vehicle and book the vehicle for inspection.
Currently, with the new rules issued by Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen, all Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) are subjected to a mandatory inspection before the renewal of their driving licences.
