The automotive world occasionally delivers builds so bizarre they demand your attention. The latest example? A Utah entrepreneur’s “Cybercop” – a heavily modified 2004 Toyota Prius masquerading as a Toyota Cybertruck-inspired police vehicle that looks like it escaped from a dystopian sci-fi film.
Johnny Lange, owner of a specialty vehicle transportation business, created this attention-grabbing tribute to mock Tesla’s Cybertruck without breaking the bank. Starting with a humble Prius boasting over 200,000 miles, Lange transformed the hybrid into something nearly unrecognizable, sparking conversations about automotive innovation and the electric vehicle revolution.
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Engineering Marvel or Automotive Madness?
The transformation process took four months of meticulous work. Lange stripped the Prius of its bumpers, hood, and various exterior components before constructing an angular exoskeleton using square steel tubing. This framework mimics the Cybertruck’s distinctive silhouette while maintaining the original vehicle’s mechanical integrity.
Flat aluminum panels were attached using an unconventional combination of double-sided tape and rivets – a fastening strategy that blends necessity with creative engineering. The result? A vehicle that retains almost nothing of its original Toyota exterior beyond mirrors and glass.
Technical Specifications and Modifications
The Cybercop features several noteworthy modifications that highlight both creativity and functionality:
| Component | Original Toyota | Modified Cybercop |
|---|---|---|
| Body Panels | Standard Prius Steel | Flat Aluminum Sheets |
| Lighting | Halogen Headlights | Slim LED Light Strips |
| Wheels | Factory Alloys | Black Aftermarket Alloys |
| Stance | Stock Width | Widened with Spacers |
| Power Source | Hybrid System | Unchanged Hybrid System |
The Police Parody That Serves a Purpose
Beyond its eye-catching appearance, the Cybercop serves a meaningful purpose. The vehicle is currently listed on eBay with no reserve, with all proceeds benefiting Utah’s 10-33 Foundation, a nonprofit supporting families of fallen officers. This charitable aspect transforms what could be dismissed as an automotive joke into something genuinely impactful.
The build features authentic police-inspired elements including roof-mounted strobes, additional LEDs, decorative weaponry, and a small push bar. “Space Patrol” decals run along the sides, while “Not A Cop Car” warnings ensure legal compliance while maintaining the vehicle’s comedic appeal.
Interior Authenticity vs. Exterior Fantasy
Interestingly, the interior remains completely stock Toyota Prius, creating a jarring contrast with the futuristic exterior. Only the headrests received modifications, fitted with alien-style masks that add to the vehicle’s otherworldly theme. This design choice raises questions about automotive safety standards and modification regulations.
Industry Implications and Future Considerations
The Cybercop phenomenon highlights several important trends in automotive culture. First, it demonstrates the growing influence of Tesla’s design philosophy on mainstream automotive enthusiasm. Second, it showcases the maker movement’s impact on vehicle modification culture.
The build also raises regulatory questions about vehicle modifications and their compliance with federal safety standards. While the Cybercop maintains its original hybrid powertrain, the extensive exterior modifications could potentially impact safety systems and crash protection.
The Broader Tesla Effect
This project represents one of many Tesla Cyber truck-inspired builds worldwide, suggesting the vehicle’s cultural impact extends far beyond its actual sales numbers. The trend reflects changing consumer expectations about automotive design and the growing acceptance of unconventional vehicle aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Cybercop street legal?
A: Yes, it maintains the original vehicle’s mechanical systems and compliance features.
Q: How much did the transformation cost?
A: Specific costs weren’t disclosed, but materials included steel tubing, aluminum panels, and LED lighting.
Q: Can I buy the Cybercop?
A: It’s currently available on eBay with proceeds supporting law enforcement families.
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