The Nippon Automotive College (NATS) is known for its extravagant vehicle conversions, and the latest example created for the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon is no exception to that rule. The NATS Jimny J1 is a wild replica of the Hummer H1, with a wide body made of two conjoined Suzuki Jimnys and an air suspension eliminating any sign of ground clearance.

Japan already has its own Hummer H1 alternative – the Toyota Mega Cruiser – but NATS students didn’t take the easy road of modifying an existing vehicle. Instead, they chose to create a fully custom exterior and interior, using the underpinnings of an old Suzuki Vitara (known as the Escudo in Japan) and sacrificing two examples of the Suzuki Jimny.

More: Toyota Alphard Minivan Converted Into A Dually Pickup For Tokyo

Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1
Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1
Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1
Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1
Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1
Two Conjoined Suzuki Jimnys Create A Slammed Hummer H1

Tokyo Auto Salon

With a width of 1,395 mm (54.9 inches), the second generation of the Suzuki Jimny is no match for the monstrous Hummer H1 which measures 2,197 mm (86.5 inches) wide. This is why the team bought two examples of the little offroader – one of them was cut in half, and the other was used for the middle section. As a result, the nine-slot grille has two sets of headlights on each side, with an equal number of indicators, and a split windscreen.

More chopping was required for the significantly longer profile of the bespoke SUV that features four doors and Hummer-style boxy windows. At the back, the side-hinged tailgates of the Jimnys are repurposed as barn doors, providing access to a massive cargo space. The latter appears to be fully occupied by a multi-speaker audio system which is not unusual in Japanese show cars.

As a final touch, the students added roof-mounted bike carriers, which are easily accessible given that the belly of the Hummer lookalike nearly touches the ground.

The slammed looks are courtesy of an air suspension, with a new set of aftermarket wheels snugged under the wheel arches. The ladder frame chassis of the Vitara was chosen for its larger size compared to that of the tiny Jimny. Under the bulged hood lies the stock 2.5-liter V6 engine of the donor car, allowing room for the wide tires on either side.

Whether you like it or not, the NATS Jimny J1 is nothing short of a head-turner. The entire development process is highlighted in a series of YouTube videos, proving that joining three vehicles in one is not an easy task. The students were rewarded for their hard work by winning the Excellence Award (SUV Category) at the Tokyo International Custom Car Contest.

https://youtu.be/NgoQdGlwnUk?si=gTjOYHf9AEoBhuOo