Product R&D Time - 6th Gen Cargo Platform

[AmericanAdventureLab]

We are continuing the R&D process for our 6th‑generation 4Runner MASS+ storage platform. The 6th‑gen platform will build on our 5th‑gen 4Runner platform, which uses 1/8″ steel mounting rails and lightweight 5052 aluminum top plates. That combination of steel and 5052 aluminum offers an ideal balance between strength and weight. We plan to keep the system lightweight, strong and modular, with powder‑coated and Mil‑Spec‑liner finish options similar to our other MASS products.

Our current 4Runner MASS platform provides numerous additional mounting points for gear such as folding chairs, totes, and water tanks. It can also be configured with our 7×5 MASS drawers and fridge slides for organization. To get a sense of where we’re heading, please look over our 5th‑gen 4Runner MASS platform. Another useful reference is our Lexus GX‑460 rear platform, which shows how a laser‑cut 1/8″‑thick 5052 aluminum base uses factory holes to create a level platform when the third‑row seats are removed.

You all have already been extremely helpful with feedback and suggestions while we develop products for this market. We know cargo platforms are not for everyone, but if this is something you would use, please let me know your use case and what features would make it work better for you. We plan to develop new accessories and mounts to complement the system.

Examples of the design can be seen on these product pages:

• 5th Gen 4Runner MASS Platform
• GX460 MASS Platform

We will also develop accessories, mounts, etc. that work with this product. Here's what we were working on recently as an example some of you may have seen it in a recent post. I just didn't wanted to create a formal place for the conversation.

Note -- This was version 1. The production version will have an access door with a locking latch on each panel for access to the lower storage area.

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[Gastan]

We are continuing the R&D process for our 6th‑generation 4Runner MASS+ storage platform. The 6th‑gen platform will build on our 5th‑gen 4Runner platform, which uses 1/8″ steel mounting rails and lightweight 5052 aluminum top plates. That combination of steel and 5052 aluminum offers an ideal balance between strength and weight. We plan to keep the system lightweight, strong and modular, with powder‑coated and Mil‑Spec‑liner finish options similar to our other MASS products.

Our current 4Runner MASS platform provides numerous additional mounting points for gear such as folding chairs, totes, and water tanks. It can also be configured with our 7×5 MASS drawers and fridge slides for organization. To get a sense of where we’re heading, please look over our 5th‑gen 4Runner MASS platform. Another useful reference is our Lexus GX‑460 rear platform, which shows how a laser‑cut 1/8″‑thick 5052 aluminum base uses factory holes to create a level platform when the third‑row seats are removed.

You all have already been extremely helpful with feedback and suggestions while we develop products for this market. We know cargo platforms are not for everyone, but if this is something you would use, please let me know your use case and what features would make it work better for you. We plan to develop new accessories and mounts to complement the system.

Examples of the design can be seen on these product pages:

• 5th Gen 4Runner MASS Platform
• GX460 MASS Platform

We will also develop accessories, mounts, etc. that work with this product. Here's what we were working on recently as an example some of you may have seen it in a recent post. I just didn't wanted to create a formal place for the conversation.

Note -- This was version 1. The production version will have an access door with a locking latch on each panel for access to the lower storage area.

Love this type of open book development process. Nothing breeds confidence in a product like following through the development to production process.

Please design this in a way that maximizes the storage space underneath. Will the finish options include ones that are "grippy" enough where we won't need a rubber cargo liner?

And I assume hybrid version is coming?

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

Love this type of open book development process. Nothing breeds confidence in a product like following through the development to production process.

Please design this in a way that maximizes the storage space underneath. Will the finish options include ones that are "grippy" enough where we won't need a rubber cargo liner?

And I assume hybrid version is coming?

Thanks Mark! I agree.

The plan will be 3 finishes.

Raw: For those that dig the aluminum look or are planning to do drawers/slides that will stay in there for the long term and don't need to pay the money to coat it.

Textured Black Powder Coat: Our most commonly chosen option. Attractive and more durable than paint.

Mil-Spec: Comparable to LineX bedliner, our most durable, and in my opinion, best looking. For those that plan on the platform only, or bringing drawers in and out occasionally. This is my favorite. It looks the most finished, and durable. From groceries to dogs, it'll hold up.

Yes! Once I can get this one released and rolling, I will try and locate a hybrid to begin the same concept for the hybrid guys. I preferred the non-hybrid when I bought this one, so that's why it was easiest to start here.

 

[RogueWarrior65]

So, here's an idea. I built my own setup for search and rescue which is essentially a pair of Home Depot Husky storage containers and a framework made from 80/20 with a platform on top. In expensive, in general. I didn't want a drawer system per se because all of that structural stuff takes up a more space than it should. Every cubic inch is important. The one downside thus far is that when you pull out the containers, there is nothing to keep them from falling out. Previously I used a Gen 1 4Runner which has a tailgate. I also don't want a drawer because the decking it too high and I wouldn't be able to easily see into the container. Not everyone is between 5'8" and 6'2", thank you so much. So, some sort of articulated mechanism would be cool so the drawer could pull out and tip down. I'm considering a low-tech solution which amounts to a piece of webbing tied to the inside frame rail to keep the container from coming all the way out.

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

So, here's an idea. I built my own setup for search and rescue which is essentially a pair of Home Depot Husky storage containers and a framework made from 80/20 with a platform on top. In expensive, in general. I didn't want a drawer system per se because all of that structural stuff takes up a more space than it should. Every cubic inch is important. The one downside thus far is that when you pull out the containers, there is nothing to keep them from falling out. Previously I used a Gen 1 4Runner which has a tailgate. I also don't want a drawer because the decking it too high and I wouldn't be able to easily see into the container. Not everyone is between 5'8" and 6'2", thank you so much. So, some sort of articulated mechanism would be cool so the drawer could pull out and tip down. I'm considering a low-tech solution which amounts to a piece of webbing tied to the inside frame rail to keep the container from coming all the way out.

See this is what I love about talking to everyone about this. I'll keep my gears turning about this one. Its looking more and more like some type of raised platform would be the ticket, and in your case, with some type of tab or stop at the front edge that could catch the back lip of a tote so it could tilt downward. Maybe even pair it with a particular tote that can be sourced anywhere, (Husky, Craftsman, Rubbermaid) and make a corresponding piece that attaches to the tote and mates with our system?

 

[RogueWarrior65]

I posted photos of my setup in a different thread.

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

I posted photos of my setup in a different thread.

I'll go check it out!

 

[M&M]

What is the ETA for this product? This is exactly what I'm looking for!

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

What is the ETA for this product? This is exactly what I'm looking for!

Soon! I'll be cutting out what I hope to be the production version next week. If everything fits nicely, we'll get them on the website ASAP!

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

Here is a little CAD teaser of what should be the production version of the Non-Hybrid 6Gen MASS Platform. It shows the internal structure, access doors, and provisions for accessory mounting trays.

4R6 MASS Platform - Non-Hybrid

Let me know if you have any questions! This is on schedule to be cut, formed, and coated this coming week. I'll surely post pictures and video when I get it all in there.

 

[Mich3113]

Thanks Mark! I agree.

The plan will be 3 finishes.

Raw: For those that dig the aluminum look or are planning to do drawers/slides that will stay in there for the long term and don't need to pay the money to coat it.

Textured Black Powder Coat: Our most commonly chosen option. Attractive and more durable than paint.

Mil-Spec: Comparable to LineX bedliner, our most durable, and in my opinion, best looking. For those that plan on the platform only, or bringing drawers in and out occasionally. This is my favorite. It looks the most finished, and durable. From groceries to dogs, it'll hold up.

Yes! Once I can get this one released and rolling, I will try and locate a hybrid to begin the same concept for the hybrid guys. I preferred the non-hybrid when I bought this one, so that's why it was easiest to start here.

 

[Mich3113]

I wish I could offer my hybrid Trailhunter for your designing process! We live in Ohio but our jeep is full of AAL products.

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

I wish I could offer my hybrid Trailhunter for your designing process! We live in Ohio but our jeep is full of AAL products.

That's awesome! I will you were closer, that would be a great plan! What part of Ohio, I have a bunch of family between Cinci and Cleveland.

 

[AmericanAdventureLab]

We’re excited to share the first photos of the production version of our M.A.S.S. Platform designed specifically for the non-hybrid 6th Gen 4Runner!

This system is built to handle real-world use and offers a ton of flexibility for different adventure setups. Here are some of the key features:

• Steel Framework – provides durability and strength where it matters most.
• 3mm 5052 Aluminum Panels – lightweight but strong, featuring multiple threaded tiedown points (perfect for use with our bungee cord loops).
• Lockable Access Doors – secure your gear in the under-floor storage area.
• Integrated M.A.S.S. Mounting Pattern – ready to accept any of our M.A.S.S. System modules.
• Finish Options – available in Raw, Textured Black Powder Coat, or Mil-Spec Bed Liner.
• Lower Accessory Trays – optional add-ons at launch to expand your under-floor organization featuring provisions for Air Compressor mounting, as well as AUX power.

We’re also debuting a brand-new module with this release: a raised tote cubby/sleeping platform, giving you even more versatility for longer trips.

We’re aiming to have the 6th Gen M.A.S.S. Platform live on our website by the end of this month, and we’ll be offering an exclusive 4Runner6G coupon code when it goes live.

We’d love to hear what you think! Feedback from this community has been huge in shaping how we build our Toyota line.

...and if you get it in raw, I promise it won't come scratched by my dog....​

 

[Brian Day]

If I order one that's per-scratched is there a discount ? LOL

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