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When it comes to Aussie automotive icons, the Toyota Ute is as legendary as they come—a true symbol of toughness and versatility on the road.
On the flip side, when it comes to cultural icons, few can hold a candle to The Wiggles—who, after three decades, are still toot-toot chugga-chugging their way to the top of Spotify Wrapped as Australia’s most-streamed local artists in 2024. But have you ever thought about what happens when the two Aussie heavyweights join forces? In what might possibly be Toyota Australia’s most iconic partnership yet, the automotive giant teamed up with The Wiggles to unveil a show-stopping addition to the brand’s legacy: The Big Red Ute – a fully custom creation by Toyota Australia that’s as whimsical as it is wiggly.
From Big Red Car to Big Red Ute
For over 30 years, The Wiggles’ Big Red Car has been the stuff of childhood dreams (and probably a few earworms for parents). But it’s 2024, and even The Wiggles need a ride upgrade. Here’s where Toyota stepped in.
Earlier this year, The Wiggles released a country-inspired banger called Big Red Ute, with lyrics celebrating the Ute’s quintessential Aussie charm (and a cheeky nod to its features like leather seats and cup holders). When the song dropped, Toyota saw the perfect opportunity to collaborate with the group and create something truly unique: a custom Big Red Ute that could roll right onto the stage.
“The idea felt like a natural fit,” said Vin Naidoo, Toyota Australia’s Chief Marketing Officer. “We loved the concept of combining The Wiggles’ nostalgia and playfulness with the rugged, iconic design of a Ute. From there, it was all about bringing the Big Red Ute to life.”
Appearing on stage at the official handover at Toyota’s Centre of Excellence in Altona, Melbourne, Red Wiggle Simon Pryce was brimming with excitement about the latest upgrade to their iconic ride. “The Big Red Car doesn’t have bubbles—and most of the time, we’re the ones pushing it around ourselves. But what’s under the hood here? Who knows—it’s a big secret! But as you can see, it’s working absolutely beautifully.”
Features That Will Make You Wiggle
Let’s get one thing straight: the Big Red Ute might look like a playful gimmick, but there’s some serious automotive design behind the bubbles and LED eyes. While it’s not your average Toyota HiLux, this custom stage car is built on the Toyota FJ Cruiser platform, giving it the rugged versatility of a classic off-roader, with a generous side of Wiggly fun.
Toyota’s Senior Designer, Michael Mills, said: “We didn’t design this for speed or practicality—we designed it for smiles. The bubble machine, the LED eyes, the rainbow rims—it’s all about bringing The Wiggles™’ joy to life in a way only a car like this could.”
Specs at a Glance
Engine
Forget petrol or hybrids —this fully electric Ute runs on bubble power: “6,000 horsepower of bubbles” (according to Anthony Wiggle). With its built-in bubble machine, it’s the cleanest (and most entertaining) vehicle to ever grace a stage.
Speed
At a top speed that could almost outpace a determined toddler (8kmp/h), the Big Red Ute is built for the stage, not the speedway. It’s just fast enough for a dramatic entrance but slow enough to keep things comfortably Wiggly.
Headlights
Yes, they wink. Yes, they will haunt your dreams. The expressive animated LED headlights can blink and flash heart eyes at you, giving the Big Red Ute its signature personality. They’re less about illuminating roads and more about lighting up faces.
Entertainment System
No need for Apple Car Play, The Big Red Ute’s in-car sound panel plays Wiggles hits like Big Red Ute on repeat, while its exterior comes alive with a dynamic, pulsating light show perfectly synced to the music.
Seating
It seats four: two in the cabin and two rear-facing in the tray. With fully operational seatbelts, it’s the safest way to let the Wiggles roll onto the stage while staying true to their roots.
Body
Built on the tough Toyota FJ Cruiser platform, the fully functional Big Red Ute screams rugged durability with its bold red paint, rainbow accents, and custom rims for a playful, stage-ready look.
Interior
Yellow leather seats with lumbar support, electric windows, and enough cup holders to keep the team hydrated between Hot Potatoes and Fruit Salad.
The Perfect Aussie Collab?
The partnership between Toyota and The Wiggles feels as natural as fruit salad and hot potatoes. Toyota has long been synonymous with Aussie Ute culture, while The Wiggles are a cornerstone of Australian childhoods. Together, they’ve created something that bridges generations.
“Toyota is excited to partner with such an iconic Australian children’s music group,” said Vin Naidoo, Toyota Australia’s Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s not every day the team develops a vehicle with a bubble machine and LED headlights as its main features.”
Where to See the Big Red Ute
The Big Red Ute will make its grand debut at The Wiggles’ Melbourne Big Show on December 7, 2024, before hitting the road for a nationwide tour. It’ll also make a star appearance at the Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival in January 2025, cementing its place as a uniquely Aussie creation.
While the Toyota Big Red Ute takes center stage at Wiggles shows around the country, fans can also catch a glimpse of its roadworthy sibling—the Wiggles-wrapped HiLux, announced last month.
