Australian automotive first – TJM launch bull bar to equipe the electric Ford F-150 Lightning 4X4 for Aussie terrain

The Ford F-150 Lightning’s new steel bull bar was designed and built in Brisbane by TJM’s engineers. TJM in the 1990s produced the world’s first airbag compliant bull bar, now turning their attention to the ever-growing EV market, they have achieved another industry first. The company has produced the first electric 4WD vehicle compliant bull bar, making the F-150 Lightning the vehicle of choice for anyone looking to take an EV offroad or for an environmentally friendly workhorse.
Brisbane, Australia – (9 December 2024) – This latest TJM innovation was developed in partnership with AUSEV, importer and distributor of the F-150 Lightning into Australia. The collaboration has led to ground-breaking EV protection solutions, further cementing TJM’s role as a leader in off-road and vehicle safety.

The engineering team at TJM needed to meet stringent EV safety regulations, to do this they completed extensive testing included charging station compatibility assessments, comparative testing, and electronic modular reprogramming to guarantee that the vehicle operates seamlessly. Together, TJM and AUSEV have engineered, designed, developed, and rigorously tested the product to meet some of the highest standards in the world and purpose built a bull bar for Aussie terrain. This rigorous testing regime will ensure the F-150 Lightning remains both robustly protected and fully functional in all conditions.
The partnership also has plans to expand to encompass additional light weight products, including the new Aeroklas Aluminium Modular Canopy, providing a comprehensive range of accessories for everything Aussies need to go offroad or build up a workhorse that will tread lightly on the planet.
“We’re immensely proud to be the first to bring a bull bar to Australia’s EV market, particularly in a four wheeled drive as advanced as the Ford F-150 Lightning,” said Darren Piper, Group Head of Product at Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group, TJM’s parent company. “This project has set a new benchmark in vehicle safety innovation, and we’re excited to contribute to the future of 4WD protection by expanding our offerings to electric vehicles without compromising on performance or safety.”
Beyond the steel bull bar, Alan Brady, Chief Commercial Officer at AUSEV was excited for the future, expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership.

“This collaboration with TJM has enabled us to bring advanced protection solutions to electric vehicle owners in Australia, an area that was previously underserved. By combining AUSEV’s knowledge of American vehicles with TJM’s engineering prowess, we’re paving the way for safe, reliable, and innovative EV accessories that Australian drivers can trust.”
“We’re excited to partner with TJM, this bull bar is a great first step and we are looking forward to introducing the Aeroklas Aluminium Modular Canopy to F-150 Lightning owners. This will enable our customers to enhance their vehicle’s utility and versatility. The canopy, is known for its lightweight durability and modular design, adding an extra layer of functionality to the vehicle,” concluded Mr. Brady.
Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group Managing Director Sally Vitoorapakorn was pleased with the partnership and committed to building innovative accessories to serve the growing need to customise electric vehicles to cater to the needs of all Australians wanting more from their vehicle.
“TJM’s commitment to pioneering high-quality, innovative products aligns seamlessly with AUSEV’s mission of introducing American vehicles and accessories that cater to Australia’s rugged landscape,” she said
“Together, we not only meeting but exceeding expectations of what’s possible in vehicle protection and utility for a growing EV market.”

TJM ‘Take the Lead’
TJM ‘Take the Lead’ by equipping four-wheel drives with premium quality 4×4 accessories and have been doing so for the past 50 years. We’re part of the Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group, an international manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket accessories and home to other great 4×4 accessories businesses such as Tough Dog and Aeroklas Fitment Centres.
Our gear is engineered to withstand Australia’s harshest conditions and specifically designed for those that thrive on a 4×4 and outdoor lifestyle. TJM’s product range includes engineered bull bars, additional vehicle protection, snorkels, suspension, winches, recovery equipment, diff locks, air compressors, camping gear and more.
With over 80 stores and stockists across Australia, TJM is where your journey begins.
Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group (AAPG)
We specialise in designing, producing and selling four-wheel drive automotive accessories across a variety of markets. Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group is part of the Eastern Polymer Group of companies, an international producer of automotive accessories.
AAPG acquired TJM 4×4 Accessories in 2015, which has a national network of retail stores and a rich history in Australia that dates back to 1973. The company also owns both Flexiglass and Bocar, both of which produce high-quality ute canopies, trays and accompanying accessories. The product arm of Aeroklas, has also been producing light weight automotive accessories for over 35 years.
AAPG manufacture both within Australia and overseas. Within the Australian facilities they have invested in inhouse R&D capability and dedicated design labs. They are constantly creating innovative new products specifically designed for SUVs in rugged Australian conditions.
With a growing portfolio of recognisable brands and a wealth of experience within each of its divisions, Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group are quickly becoming a dominant force in the four-wheel drive automotive accessories industry.
AUSEV
AUSEV, a subsidiary of the BOSSCAP Group, is a leading Australian-owned distributor of commercial electric vehicles (EV’s). Established in 2021, AUSEV is committed to accelerating the supply of commercial EVs into the Australia market, providing sustainable and innovative transportation solutions tailored to the unique demands of the region.
Guided by a mission to accelerate the transition to zero-emissions transport, AUSEV takes pride In producing locally made EV’s that deliver reliability and adaptability for both urban, rugged and heavy industry conditions. From advanced battery systems to intelligent design features, the company’s solutions are tailored to meet the diverse needs of consumers, businesses and fleets.
AUSEV’s dedication to sustainability and sovereign capability is evident in its significant investments in research and development. They collaborate to higher education and assist industries in onshoring their manufacturing processes, committed to creating local jobs and strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability and education standards.