Building a 1-of-1 SEMA Truck: 2022 Lifted Toyota Tundra Hybrid 

Christopher Butler 

2022 Lifted Toyota Tundra Hybrid 

Instagram: @myplaytoys 

Photographer: Spencer Shroud

Instagram:  @thejdmphotography

Performance Stats:3.5 liter 437 horsepower with 583 pounds of torque 

Introduction: Christopher Butler’s Unique SEMA Truck Journey

Christopher Butler, a former golf pro from Fort Worth, Texas, turned his passion for vehicles into an incredible build—a 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid with a 12-inch bulletproof suspension, the first of its kind. From golf courses in Ireland and Scotland to the world of custom truck building, Christopher’s journey is inspiring. He transformed his love for cars into a craft, creating a head-turning, SEMA-worthy truck that redefines expectations for hybrid builds. With a 3.5-liter engine generating 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, this Tundra is not just about looks but power too.

The Road to SEMA: Learning the Craft

Christopher’s journey into the world of SEMA trucks began with a desire to learn something new. Moving away from his previous career, he ventured into the realm of custom vehicle builds, focusing on something unique—a hybrid truck. With the guidance of friends like Terry Payne of RDMBUILDS, Christopher quickly adapted to the custom truck scene. Terry introduced him to Cris Payne of Truck Guru, who would help take the project to new heights. Under Cris’ mentorship, Christopher learned the intricacies of designing and executing a build worthy of the SEMA spotlight.

The Vision: Crafting a Unique Build

Christopher didn’t just want to build any truck—he aimed to create something unseen. His vision was to break away from the countless Ford and Dodge builds dominating the market. Instead, he decided to focus on a Toyota Tundra, an import truck, and take it to the next level. This approach is what makes his Tundra stand out—a hybrid engine paired with a massive 12-inch Bulletproof suspension.

Christopher’s idea wasn’t just to stand out but to challenge the norms of truck building. "I wanted to build something people haven't seen yet," says Christopher. And that’s exactly what he accomplished.

A Build Unlike Any Other: Specs and Modifications

The 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid build Christopher Butler has crafted is filled with custom modifications, each adding to the vehicle's overall uniqueness and performance.

Performance and Exterior Modifications

The Tundra's most impressive modification is the 12-inch Bulletproof Suspension, which sets it apart from any other hybrid build on the market. Combined with Amp 37x14x24 tires and Cali Off-Road wheels, this Tundra is as tough as it is visually striking.

The custom modifications extend beyond just performance. The truck features a custom grill and frame plates made by Remschel Customs, along with FCK Lightbars wheel and rock lights. The Avery Dennison Rugged Green wrap ensures that the Tundra grabs attention wherever it goes, making it the perfect balance of form and function.

To add to the aesthetic appeal, Prismatic Power Coating was used for the lift, creating a standout look that compliments the Katzkin Custom Leather Seats and the truck’s overall design.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior also got a full upgrade with Katzkin custom leather seats, adding comfort and luxury to the powerful build. The attention to detail in the interior, combined with the rugged exterior, makes for a build that is as enjoyable to drive as it is to look at.

The customizations extend from the exterior to the finer details within the vehicle. The Gen-Y Hitch, Remschel Customs grill and body plates, and Bolt Locks all work together to ensure the build maintains its high-quality standards.

Build List for the 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid

• Suspension: 12-inch Bulletproof suspension

• Tires: Amp 37x14x24 tires

• Wheels: Cali Off-Road wheels

• Lights: FCK Lightbars rock and wheel lights

• Interior: Katzkin Custom Leather

• Wrap: Avery Dennison Vinyl Wrap (Rugged Green)

• Exhaust: Gibson Exhaust

• Other Mods: Gen-Y Hitch, Prismatic Power Coating, Main Event Emblems, Pistol Pete’s Racing Liquids for detailing

Who Did the Work?

Building a truck of this caliber requires teamwork and skilled professionals. While Christopher was the visionary behind the project, several skilled hands brought the vision to life.

• Lift: Texas Tires

• Grill and Body Plates: Remschel Customs

• Seats: Southside Trim

These teams were integral in transforming the Tundra into the monster build it is today.

Future Plans for the Tundra

Christopher’s 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid may already be a standout vehicle, but he’s not done yet. His goal is to take the Tundra to even greater heights, pushing boundaries and showing what’s possible with a hybrid vehicle.

Christopher has hinted that his next build will be "bigger than anything done today." His aim is to continue breaking the mold by focusing on unique, out-of-the-box designs for Toyota vehicles. His future plans for the Tundra may include even more customization and possibly exploring larger, more complex builds.

The Importance of Creativity: Standing Out in the Car Scene

When asked why he chose to focus on a Toyota Tundra Hybrid, Christopher replied, "There are a lot of Ford and Dodge builds out there, but not many import builds. So why not change the game?"

Christopher’s approach to vehicle builds reflects his philosophy on creativity and individuality. He believes in creating builds that are not just a reflection of current trends but pushing boundaries. His Toyota Tundra Hybrid serves as a testament to his belief that you can build something different from the rest and still make an impact in the car scene.

Shout Outs

Christopher’s build wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support of several key individuals and companies. He would like to extend his thanks to:

• Cris Payne (@truckguru) - Build Manager

• Terry Payne (@rdmbuilds)

• Moe at Texas Tires Fort Worth

• All sponsors - FCK Lightbars, Avery Dennison, Prismatic Power, Katzkin, Gen-Y Hitch, Main Event Emblems, Remschel Customs, Amp Tires, Cali Off-Road Wheels, Gibson Exhaust, PSD Inc, Bolt Locks, Effenfast Covers, Next Level Mats, Pistol Pete’s Racing Liquids, Body Armor

Dream Car: Bugatti

While the Toyota Tundra Hybrid is Christopher’s current pride and joy, he still dreams of owning a Bugatti one day. For now, he’s content with pushing the limits of his Tundra build and challenging the car scene with every new project.

Conclusion: A Build That Redefines Expectations

Christopher Butler’s 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid is not just another SEMA truck; it's a trailblazer. By combining a hybrid engine with a 12-inch bulletproof suspension, Christopher has redefined what’s possible in the world of custom truck builds. His philosophy of going against the grain and pushing boundaries is evident in every detail of his build.

For Christopher, this is just the beginning. As he continues to push the envelope, the car community can only expect bigger and better things from him.

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