Toyota introduces a new Land Cruiser 70 built for humanitarian missions

Toyota Gibraltar Stockholdings (TGS) has introduced the latest iteration of the Land Cruiser GDJ76, the United Nations’ vehicle of choice anywhere they go. This updated model is based on the refreshed Land Cruiser 70 Series, which was revealed shortly after Toyota's announcement of the US-bound Land Cruiser.

TGS operates as a specialized Toyota dealership, primarily dedicated to the assembly of these simplified Land Cruisers designed for export to humanitarian aid organizations. While the United Nations stands out as the most prominent client, other organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the World Food Program, also procure these vehicles.

At present, Toyota Gibraltar Stockholdings offers the HZJ76, which is the "wagon" model within the 70 Series range. It is specially designed to accommodate 10 passengers with troop seating in the rear. If you watch the news, you’ve probably seen this Land Cruiser on television, usually with UN personnel around it. 

Moving to the new GDJ76 model undergoes the same modern updates as the recently updated J70 Land Cruiser available in Japan. However, unlike the civilian version,  various conveniences are not found on the GDJ76, such as automatic high-beam headlights, a digital gauge cluster, and a touchscreen. On the flip side, it does come equipped with Toyota's Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) along with manually locking hubs for enhanced reliability and additional off-road ability. The iconic white paint and black snorkel from the HZJ76 model are also retained in this version.

The new GDJ76, supplied by Toyota Gibraltar Stockholdings, is powered by the 1GD-FTV engine, a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to the new engine, the GDJ76 has a 30 percent increase in fuel efficiency compared to the previous six-cylinder 1HZ engine. Moreover, the power output has surged from 129 horsepower to 201 hp. Additionally, emissions have been reduced by 30 percent, allowing the GDJ76 to conform to Euro 4 emissions standards, a requirement in many of the regions where this vehicle will be deployed.

Currently, the distribution of the GDJ76 to humanitarian organizations is scheduled to start in March next year. The first batch of these vehicles will be delivered to the world’s largest international organization, the United Nations.