Destination pickup, once a staple of European automakers, has been a rare breed in Japan until now. With Flex Automotive's latest venture, buyers can now travel straight to the factory to collect their new JDM-spec vintage Land Cruiser, complete with modern Toyota underpinnings and a retro-look pickup based on the Tacoma. This unique experience offers a chance for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the heritage of Japanese performance ownership. By decal-ing up the back window with all the places they've been, owners can create a personalized story that will last a lifetime.
Flex Automotive's San Diego dealership has been the gateway to this innovative program, which has already gained traction among car enthusiasts. With over 50 dealerships in Japan, Flex has established itself as a major player in the country's automotive industry. The company's business model is simple: take classic Land Cruisers and backdate them to their heyday, offering customers an affordable and unique ownership experience.
For those willing to travel across the Pacific, Flex now offers the Japan Delivery Experience, a seven-day adventure that begins with introducing buyers to their new Land Cruiser in Yamanashi, just east of Tokyo's sprawl. From there, they'll embark on a scenic drive through rural Japan, culminating in a guided tour at the Toyota Auto Museum.
Once the keys are relinquished, Flex prepares the vehicle for shipment back to the United States, and buyers hop on a flight to Hokkaido. There, they'll receive a factory tour and spend a couple of days driving Toyota Land Cruisers or Hiace vans through the wilderness, staying in peaceful cabins along the way.
Despite the hefty price tag of just under $18,000 for two people, which includes internal airfare, accommodation, and vehicle rentals, this experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for car enthusiasts. The cost is relatively low considering the comprehensive nature of the delivery program.
The Japan Delivery Experience is not only a unique ownership experience but also an immersive cultural adventure. Buyers will get to explore rural Japan, visit museums, and experience the country's rich automotive heritage firsthand. This program has the potential to redefine the way car manufacturers interact with their customers in Japan.
Flex Automotive's bold move may just inspire other Japanese manufacturers to follow suit. With the success of this program, it's possible that we'll see more mainstream brands offering destination pickup experiences in the future. Imagine being able to fly out, collect your new roadster at Mazda's headquarters, and hit the roads immediately.
The best vehicle ownership experiences are all about creating lasting memories and stories. The Japan Delivery Experience ensures that the first chapter of ownership is a memorable one, setting the tone for years of adventure and exploration. For car enthusiasts, this program is a dream come true.
As Flex Automotive continues to expand its dealership network in the United States, it's clear that this innovative program is here to stay. With its unique blend of automotive heritage and cultural immersion, the Japan Delivery Experience is an experience that will leave buyers with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for Japanese performance ownership.
