The Van Daryl War Truck is a stunning reimagination of the rugged U.S. Army jeeps left behind in Vietnam after the war. Under the visionary leadership of Daryl Villanueva—best known for his futuristic Bandit9 motorcycles—these battle-hardened vehicles have been transformed into modern automotive masterpieces, blending military heritage with contemporary luxury and performance.
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. Army deployed thousands of jeeps across Southeast Asia. Many of these vehicles were left behind after the conflict, scattered across Saigon and beyond. Instead of letting these war machines rust away, Villanueva saw an opportunity to breathe new life into them. Through his new venture, Van Daryl, he has meticulously restored and refined these jeeps, turning them into high-performance, made-to-order War Trucks.
Each War Truck is built from an actual U.S. Army jeep that saw combat, preserving its rich history while infusing it with modern craftsmanship. These vehicles are not just restorations; they are entirely reimagined with reinforced steel and aluminum chassis, independent coil suspension, and a range of powertrain options.
The War Truck retains its original 2.3L 4-cylinder engine, producing 71 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, but customers have the option to upgrade to more powerful configurations, including an all-electric drivetrain. Both the combustion and electric models offer a 300-mile range, ensuring these modernized machines are as practical as they are striking.
Despite its rugged military roots, the War Truck is far from antiquated. With nearly 10 inches of ground clearance and a lightweight steel-aluminum chassis, it delivers a balanced combination of strength and agility. The truck rides on custom-forged alloy wheels with a nod to classic steelie designs, complemented by LED lighting that seamlessly integrates retro aesthetics with modern functionality.
True to the Van Daryl design philosophy, the War Truck blends old-school toughness with a sleek, minimalist approach. The boxy, utilitarian bodywork is enhanced with ultra-high-strength steel and aluminum, flared fenders, and a bespoke front bumper featuring a tow-hook and winch cutout. The retro-inspired all-LED headlights and taillights contribute to its distinctive neo-military look.
Low-cut doors with handcrafted wooden handles add a refined touch, while the side-mounted exhaust exits just ahead of the rear wheels, reinforcing the truck’s aggressive stance. The rear cargo area takes inspiration from yacht design, featuring teak-style wood decking that adds both functionality and sophistication.
The interior of the War Truck is where military grit meets high-end craftsmanship. Instead of a spartan, utilitarian cabin, Van Daryl has infused the vehicle with luxury and modern technology. Hand-stitched calf leather seats provide comfort, while a panoramic LED instrument display brings futuristic functionality to the dashboard.
Bespoke metal switches, a modern infotainment system, air conditioning, and a custom steering wheel enhance the driving experience. Every element of the interior is fully customizable, allowing owners to tailor their War Truck to their exact specifications.
Villanueva describes the War Truck as more than just a restoration—it’s a complete reinvention. “They’re made from real Vietnam War jeeps that served in the U.S. Army and saw actual combat. To call it a ‘restoration’ would be an oversimplification. It is reimagined, rehabilitated, revived, and refined. The War Truck honors its predecessor’s DNA but has modernized proportions, a handcrafted and fully customizable interior, updated instruments, and upgraded handling and performance.”
Each War Truck is a bespoke, made-to-order creation, ensuring that no two vehicles are exactly alike. It’s a bold statement piece that pays homage to the past while embracing the future of automotive craftsmanship.
With the War Truck, Van Daryl has proven that history can be preserved without being stuck in the past. This vehicle is a testament to ingenuity, bridging the gap between war-time resilience and modern-day luxury with unparalleled attention to detail. Whether on the road or in a collection, the War Truck stands as a remarkable blend of heritage and innovation.
