Manic Mechanic Creates Cybertruck Wannabe From Crashed Toyota Prius

Much to the disappointment of Tesla fans, the long-awaited Cybertruck has suffered repeated delays. According to the automaker, production of the futuristic electric truck has been pushed back to 2023. Those hoping to get their hands on one must be despondent, especially as both Rivian and Ford customers are enjoying their battery-powered pickups.

But one crafty Californian has found a solution to the problem, making a Cybertruck of his own. YouTuber Cyber Hooligan doesn’t describe his creation as a replica, but rather as a “Cybertruck wannabe.” In the video below, the owner explains the unusual name stems from its compact dimensions.

“I can’t make it look like a Cybertruck because the wheelbase is short.” It’s the bluff front end and modern light bar which draws inspiration from the upcoming EV, with the rear facia also borrowing from the boxy design.

Despite the ludicrous appearance, the Cybertruck wannabe is based upon rather humble underpinnings. The owner says he purchased a wrecked Toyota Prius to serve as the foundation – the 1.5-liter engine and hybrid setup remains, giving this tribute the ability to run in EV mode.

The inspiration behind the intriguing build stems from another love – hunting. Cyber Hooligan remarks that the hybrid setup is well-suited to his second hobby. “This car is front heavy and front-wheel drive. When you’re driving in the woods it’s super quiet…you come across a lot more deer that way.”

To help the Prius-based off-roader tackle rough paths, he increased the front ride height by one inch and fitted larger diameter off-roading tires with 14-inch wheels for improved grip. It seems to have done the job; the Cybertruck wannabe moves over loose surfaces and tough terrain with the ease of a mountain goat.

Best described as a rolling project, the owner notes several things are yet to be completed. The front-end lighting, for example, still needs to be adjusted and secured but plenty of work has already gone into this creation. Cyber Hooligan describes how he transformed the wrecked Prius into his dream off-roader.

“I had to shorten the frame…by about three inches, bring it back, and then cut the lower control arms [before moving] them forward two-and-a-half inches.” The front of the vehicle was positioned further forward as there was too much overhang. Despite appearances, there’s no roll cage.

Remarkably, the project hasn’t cost its owner much. “I bought this car for $800 and when all is said and done, this thing cost me $2,800 [in total].” Interestingly, the wheels and tires cost more than the donor Prius. What’s on the horizon? The owner is hoping to do something very similar, only this time with a wrecked Tesla Model 3. Best stay tuned.