In the past our features have been based on hypothetical fit-outs. This time, it is based on a very much real vehicle.
To find out what went into the build, and why, we asked Grant Doull, head of commercial vehicles at VW NZ and the man ultimately responsible for the built, to tell us about what went into Rokky and why.
Q) First things first. On which particular production model is Rokky based?
A) Rokky is based on the popular TL Amarok which is a mid to high specification Amarok that’s been developed as the ideal cross over between hard work and recreation. Key data is 132kW/420Nm twin turbo engine, 4motion (full-time 4WD) drivetrain and class leading 8-Speed automatic transmission.
Q) What was the overall ‘design brief’ for Rokky? In other words, what were you trying to achieve? Also what were your must-haves/i.e. bull bars, winch, lift kit etc?
A) The team at the Red Stag Timber Hunters Club wanted the best of both worlds; a do-anything/go-anywhere off-road vehicle, but they also had to do huge mileage and the producer and chief cameraman Dave Shaw, has a young family so they needed a vehicle with the highest safety ratings and one which was hugely comfortable to travel the length and breadth of New Zealand in because Dave lives in the Far North and parts of the show are filmed in the lower South Island.
Functionality, of course, is one thing, but if the truck doesn't turn heads and make mouth’s water on TV then we haven't done our job. Rokky is not just a tool to get places, but an advertisement for the show itself so appearances also count for a great deal, you’ll see this by the fantastic graphic design over body work of the Amarok.
Q) Finally, who came up with the final spec?
A) It was a combination of everyone involved but the process had been hugely steered by the Red Stag Timber Hunters Club team and they were a no-compromise bunch and knew what the needed.
To read the full story in the June 2015 issue of NZ4WD go to Zinio.com (on sale May 18) or purchase your own hard copy at the Adrenalin store.
