As avid Rugby fans, we learned early on that traveling overland will often conflict with important matches and planned weekends away. A difficult choice had to be made: head out or stay home to catch the game.
Nissan has unveiled the Project Trailgater, a one-of-a-kind custom build based on the refreshed 2025 Frontier, showcasing a high-tech, off-road-ready tailgating experience so you can get out there and explore and enjoy the game from the comfort of your camp chair. Set to debut at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 5–8, the Project Trailgater is a collaboration with PowerNation TV’s “Music City Trucks.” The build, documented over three episodes airing on October 14, 21, and 28, is designed to offer an innovative tailgating setup for outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans alike.
Eric Smart, co-host of “Music City Trucks,” emphasized the concept’s goal of blending the time-honored tradition of tailgating with modern outdoor living.
“Tailgating has been a staple in the sports community for generations. Combining that with people’s love for the outdoors and Nissan’s decades-long legacy with the off-roading scene makes this a truly one-of-a-kind concept that magnifies the Frontier’s versatility and capabilities.”
The Project Trailgater is outfitted with not one but two 43-inch TVs and a powerful soundbar, all mounted on a NISMO Off-Road overlanding rack. The setup allows fans to stream games from almost anywhere (just do us all a favor and enjoy the game far from earshot). A Dakota Lithium custom battery pack, folding solar panel, and Starlink connectivity enable streaming in off-the-grid locations; provided there’s a satellite or mobile hotspot signal.
For ultimate convenience, the Project Trailgater includes a Dometic cooler, a fold-out kitchen station, and a propane grill mounted on a custom CargoGlide slide-out, ensuring all the essentials for a day of tailgating are close at hand. The cooking station, which includes a sink and additional storage, allows tailgaters to prepare food and stay hydrated no matter the environment.
The Project Trailgater is not just a mobile tailgating hub but also a capable off-road vehicle, thanks to a suite of NISMO Off-Road components. The customizations include:
- A suspension lift kit;
- Forged upper control arms;
- High-performance rear shocks;
- Front coilovers.
For traction, the vehicle is equipped with 17-inch Axis beadlock wheels paired with Yokohama Geolandar M/T tires, while a performance cat-back exhaust system boosts its capability on rugged terrain.
Other enhancements include a roof rack and an array of additional lights for nighttime visibility. A suite of off-road lights, including 6-inch driving lights and rear-facing fog lights, help illuminate the campsite, while a high-mounted NISMO rack accommodates the two 43-inch TVs and outdoor soundbar for a comprehensive viewing experience.
The Project Trailgater is based on the Pro-4X model of the 2025 Nissan Frontier, which brings several updates for the new model year. The 2025 Frontier’s design refresh includes a new front fascia and wheels, and the model is now available with a 6-foot bed configuration in both Pro-4X and SL trims. Interior enhancements include a standard telescoping steering wheel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system for higher trim levels.
The 2025 Frontier offers increased ratings across all grades for towing needs, maxing out at 7,150 pounds. The Pro-4X grade, which underpins the Project Trailgater, is equipped with a locking rear differential, Bilstein off-road suspension components, and standout styling features such as Lava Red tow hooks and over fenders.
To accommodate the tailgating equipment, the interior has been customized with a custom-fabricated floor, allowing ample space for a Dakota Lithium battery bank with three 320 amp-hour batteries, a 1500-watt inverter, a 40-amp DC-DC charger, and a battery monitor. This setup powers the TVs, soundbar, and other amenities, with solar charging capability for prolonged off-grid operation. Inside the vehicle, a Dometic NRX refrigerator provides additional storage for drinks and snacks.
Beyond the vehicle itself, the Project Trailgater includes a portable camp setup with a SeaSucker-mounted kitchen station, cupholders, and trash bag holders. Other camp accessories include a Dometic GO Hydration water jug with a powered faucet, a Dometic camp table and chairs, and a portable fire pit from Front Runner Outfitters.
The Project Trailgater will be one of five Nissan custom builds displayed at the 2024 SEMA Show. More details on the remaining vehicles are expected closer to the event. This project underscores Nissan’s continued commitment to creating tailored solutions for adventurous drivers who want to combine off-road exploration with outdoor activities like tailgating.
If this concept appeals to you, please remember that with great (audio) power comes great responsibility.
Read More: Van Conversion Companies :: Buyers Guide
Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.
