Brisbane, Australia – (9 December 2024) – This latest TJM innovation was developed in partnership with AUSEV, importer and distributor of the F-150 Lightning into Australia. The collaboration has led to ground-breaking EV protection solutions, further cementing TJM’s role as a leader in off-road and vehicle safety.
The Ford F-150 Lightning’s new steel bull bar was designed and built in Brisbane by TJM’s engineers. TJM in the 1990s produced the world’s first airbag compliant bull bar, now turning their attention to the ever-growing EV market, they have achieved another industry first. The company has produced the first electric 4WD vehicle compliant bull bar, making the F-150 Lightning the vehicle of choice for anyone looking to take an EV offroad or for an environmentally friendly workhorse.
The engineering team at TJM needed to meet stringent EV safety regulations, to do this they completed extensive testing included charging station compatibility assessments, comparative testing, and electronic modular reprogramming to guarantee that the vehicle operates seamlessly. Together, TJM and AUSEV have engineered, designed, developed, and rigorously tested the product to meet some of the highest standards in the world and purpose built a bull bar for Aussie terrain. This rigorous testing regime will ensure the F-150 Lightning remains both robustly protected and fully functional in all conditions.
The partnership also has plans to expand to encompass additional light weight products, including the new Aeroklas Aluminium Modular Canopy, providing a comprehensive range of accessories for everything Aussies need to go offroad or build up a workhorse that will tread lightly on the planet.
“We’re immensely proud to be the first to bring a bull bar to Australia’s EV market, particularly in a four wheeled drive as advanced as the Ford F-150 Lightning,” said Darren Piper, Group Head of Product at Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group, TJM’s parent company. “This project has set a new benchmark in vehicle safety innovation, and we’re excited to contribute to the future of 4WD protection by expanding our offerings to electric vehicles without compromising on performance or safety.”
Beyond the steel bull bar, Alan Brady, Chief Commercial Officer at AUSEV was excited for the future, expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership.
“This collaboration with TJM has enabled us to bring advanced protection solutions to electric vehicle owners in Australia, an area that was previously underserved. By combining AUSEV’s knowledge of American vehicles with TJM’s engineering prowess, we’re paving the way for safe, reliable, and innovative EV accessories that Australian drivers can trust.”
“We’re excited to partner with TJM, this bull bar is a great first step and we are looking forward to introducing the Aeroklas Aluminium Modular Canopy to F-150 Lightning owners. This will enable our customers to enhance their vehicle’s utility and versatility. The canopy, is known for its lightweight durability and modular design, adding an extra layer of functionality to the vehicle,” concluded Mr. Brady.
Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group Managing Director Sally Vitoorapakorn was pleased with the partnership and committed to building innovative accessories to serve the growing need to customise electric vehicles to cater to the needs of all Australians wanting more from their vehicle.
“TJM’s commitment to pioneering high-quality, innovative products aligns seamlessly with AUSEV’s mission of introducing American vehicles and accessories that cater to Australia’s rugged landscape,” she said
“Together, we not only meeting but exceeding expectations of what’s possible in vehicle protection and utility for a growing EV market.”
