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WATCH | Is this the toughest Toyota Hilux bakkie in SA, or just plain ridiculous?

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<i>Image: Maqhawe BhakaNinja Ndaba/Facebook</i>
<i>Image: Maqhawe BhakaNinja Ndaba/Facebook</i>

Water and a combustion engine is never a good mix and will most certainly mean serious damage if the two come in contact with one another.

A Facebook user, Maqhawe Ndaba, uploaded a video clip showing how a seventh-generation Toyota Hilux bakkie makes its way through strong river currents, and then up an embankment as if its the norm. The driver clearly does this often as he seems to have perfected the stint. Ndaba is impressed by the bakkie's capabilities and thinks the automaker should use the clip for its next TV ad.

Of course, the automaker will never condone this kind of behaviour as it can only be detrimental for the vehicle's engine and many other components. And, it will most certainly void any warranty, and be a very costly consequence. So be careful where you might tread, no matter how tough you might think your bakkie is. 
WATCH | How to drive in floods and stay safe on the roads this holiday

Tough or ridiculous

Driving in water this high, or in a shallow river, is never a good idea and will almost certainly put anyone's life at risk, let alone the vehicle. One strong current tide and things can take a turn for the worst in mere seconds.

SA bakkie sales | The Toyota Hilux rules the bakkie segment, again

In this case though everything ends well with the Hilux utilising its robust strength and torque, making it to the other side safely. 

Watch the video below:

Here are a few tips to keep in mind

• Flowing water applies pressure to contact areas. The higher the speed the higher the pressure.

• With water that is 1m high it will flow out at a speed of 4.47 meters per second or 16km/h.

• Water that has fallen only 0.4m reaches a speed of 3.2km/h and can sweep a car off a road bridge.

• When water touches the underside of a vehicle, depending on the strength of the flow, it can lift a vehicle and even carry it away.

• A water depth of only 0.6m can float a car.





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