Nissan is bringing back a couple of popular designs of its trucks from the 1980’s. The trucks are not full production trucks you can buy from the factory, merely concept vehicles by Nissan Design America.
Project 72X is a modern take on one of Nissan’s most popular trucks, the Datsun 720. The 720 was introduced in the fall of 1979 and became the first vehicle assembled by Nissan in the United States, rolling off the Smyrna, Tennessee Vehicle Assembly Plant in 1983. The truck was nicknamed “Lil Hustler” as it was a bare-bones affordable truck designed for fun and marketed towards outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, racers loved it, modifying it for off-road races across the United States and Baja. The 2022 concept version features Pro-4X tires, a lift kit and adjustable upper suspension arms along with the signature sport bar behind the cab.
The Project Hardbody pays homage to one of Nissan’s most iconic trucks ever, the D21 Hardbody. These trucks were also found at various Baja races entered in Class 7. The Hardbody won multiple championships. You can still find some of the original models racing at vintage events such as the NORRA Rally. The Chicago Auto Show concept model is built on a 2022 Frontier Crew Cab 4×4. It has a 3-inch lift kit with adjustable upper control arms.
The trucks will be on display at the Chicago Auto Show until February 21st.
