Tacoma Beast: A Truck That Inspired a Community

The Tacoma Beast, a Flagship Rig That Gets Driven … Hard

If you know anything about Tacoma beast, you know the company is way more than a truck. It’s more than a suave guy from South America behind a phone posting videos to his Instagram account. And, it’s way more than a one-stop-shop, all-things-Tacoma website. It’s all of those things—and then some.

Mateo Ianotti was inspired to start Tacoma beast back in high school when he bought his first Tacoma. But what inspired Mateo? A story about a guy and his truck would be easy, but the story of Tacoma beast and Mateo’s truck goes way back before he even had a driver’s license. The story of Tacomabeast might even go back to a time before Mateo was even born.

Roots of the Beast

At a young age, Mateo got his first taste of overlanding with his father in South America. Mateo’s father, Miguel, was the president and CEO of a successful multi-national company. Miguel was a man who loved and respected nature and he impressed that value on his children. But sadly, the overlanding adventures didn’t last long. The Ecuadorian government stepped into Miguel’s company, dismantled it, and essentially took everything from the family.

With only $6,000 to his name, Miguel, a non-English speaking immigrant, relocated his two sons to Florida. Eventually, Miguel rented a small space and started importing and selling automotive friction materials (brakes, clutches, and so on). Miguel was a master at negotiating, but the language barrier impaired his business’ growth. So, he relied on Mateo to help him craft emails, talk to customers and vendors over the phone, and ultimately, negotiate deals as his proxy.

With Mateo growing up around the automotive industry it’s really no surprise he started his own company centered in the same space. However, that was never the plan. In fact, owner of Tacoma beast is miles away from what Mateo was supposed to be.

The Turning Point

Back in high school, Mateo faced a difficult life decision; one of those “the fate of mankind is on the line” kind of decisions … get a Jeep or a Toyota? Pressured from his classmates and friends, Mateo opted for a Toyota Tacoma over a Jeep Wrangler. That’s where it all started.

As most would agree, entering into this space can be daunting from both a financial and a “Where the hell do I start?” perspective. Mateo found the entry into overland building intimidating and wanted to create a safe place for other people to share their builds, post the newbie questions, get help and guidance, and, ultimately, start a true Tacoma overlanding community. So, that’s what he did. It didn’t come easy and he poured his heart into this project, which had no intentions of becoming a real business. He truly had a desire to share information within the community and inspire others. Eventually, the Tacoma beast page morphed from being just Mateo’s build to featuring other rigs. The likes, followers, comments, and shares started to amass, and this “project” grew legs very quickly.

Decisions Bigger Than a Truck

Mateo eventually graduated from high school and started working on his college degree. He couldn’t wait to get to class every day and decided he would pursue a degree in finance with a minor in business logistics. He kept up with Tacoma beast during his college years. The community started growing and his obsession with it grew even more.

He also started working with his father and the two grew even closer. Mateo knew that as he neared graduation, he was going to have to decide: pursue a career in finance or work side-by-side with his father. Fortunately, Mateo was offered an internship with a large financial institution, and he was excited. Mateo put on his suit the next day, looked in the mirror, and realized he actually had a third option: make Tacoma beast a real company.

Pursue a career in finance, work alongside his father, or pursue his passion? Concerned about letting his dad down, Mateo still made the decision to go with the least secure of his options and officially launch Tacoma beast. While Miguel was disappointed he would no longer be working with his son, and likely concerned that he’d be throwing away a great opportunity in finance, he gave his support.

Building an Empire

With his degree in finance and background in the automotive industry, Mateo officially launched Tacoma beast in 2012. His website, which initially was cobbled together just enough to sell one product, needed some significant maintenance. Keychains, patches, stickers, and shirts were being added to the page and the traffic was growing. His friend, Marcos, who initially helped him build the page, was now managing the website almost on a full-time basis, without pay.

“THE STORY OF TACOMA BEAST MIGHT EVEN GO BACK TO A TIME BEFORE MATEO WAS EVEN BORN.”

Mateo quickly grew tired of selling apparel and really wanted to get into creating that one-stop shop environment for all things Tacoma. He saw lots of small business owners in the market who were struggling to reach their target audience and saw an opportunity to network together. Mateo approached lots of different manufacturers and fabricators and pitched the idea of becoming partners with Tacoma beast, airdropping orders, and creating that Tacoma ecosystem his followers wanted. He was rejected—a lot. That was until he connected with Mike from CBI OffRoad.

Almost immediately, CBI signed with Tacoma beast and to this day they’re still partners. In fact, Tacoma beast now partners with tons of different fab shops, including C4 Fabrication, Fab Fours, and Relentless Fabrication. The company sells a wide range of first- through third-gen Tacoma-specific and universal off-road and overlanding gear, all in Mateo’s dream ecosystem.

What About the Flagship Rig?

Mateo is now on his second Tacoma, a 2018 third-gen. The truck has taken approximately two years to build, but as we all know, our builds are never really done. Lots of organizations contributed to the current Tacoma beast flagship rig, including Prinsu Design Studio, Heretic Studio, Goodyear, Decked, Spyder Auto, Nitro Gears, and, most recently, Magnuson Superchargers.

This is not your average flagship rig and it certainly doesn’t sit in some office lobby space collecting dust. The Tacoma beast gets driven … hard. In fact, Mateo just finished a trip with Ken Hoglund on the Pony Express where he spent every night sleeping in his CVT Mt. Shasta Stargazer Summit tent. The two beastly Tacomas covered 673 miles of pure off-road terrain from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe. The longest trip this rig has seen so far was 6,281 miles from Miami to Idaho, then to California, then back to Miami. So yes, this truck gets driven hard.

The truck sits on 2.5-inch King shocks, 16-inch Stealth Custom Series F5 wheels, and 315/75-16 Goodyear Wrangler MT/Rs with Kevlar. While the install is pending, the rig will also benefit from a Stage 3 Deaver leaf pack, supported by Locked Off-Road bumpstops. All this finely tuned suspension makes for a perfect ride on and off the trails.

Of all the mods, Mateo says his favorite is his Dometic fridge. While it serves the obvious purposes, it serves an even greater need for Mateo: ice cream in the desert.

Giving Back

In 2019, Tacoma beast became a stewardship partner with Tread Lightly and in one month they raised $13,000 for the organization’s trail cleanup efforts. Mateo hopped back into his truck and drove from Austin, Texas, to Salt Lake City with an oversized check, ensuring to take and post pictures of the check at each state line. The two organizations collaborated on a meet-up at Four Peaks Wilderness Area that same year and helped remove 10,000 pounds of garbage.

What scares Mateo is that with the current quarantine measures in place, organizations like this could lose funding. That’s why he’s made it a part of his business model to continue giving back to Tread Lightly and organizations alike. Tacoma beast now sells a collaborative Tread Lightly patch and T-shirt on their website where 100 percent of the proceeds are donated to the organization.

This event and business venture had a significant effect on Mateo, the direction of Tacoma beast, and without question, the many, many others involved in the trail cleanups. If you’re not involved, Mateo urges everyone to pick up a Trasharoo or something similar, help preserve nature and the trails we use, and leave no trace behind.

Great Things to Come

Led by Mateo, Tacoma beast now comprises of 10 full-time staff, and soon to join the team is Miguel. The company is venturing into designing and manufacturing some of their own products, with lots of projects already in the pipeline. What was once an Instagram page with a cool skull for a logo is now the growing organization widely known in the Tacoma world.

And while Mateo continues to grow the business and keep the Tacoma appeal alive for the younger generations out there, he will still be doing his own fair share of exploring. One day Mateo hopes to cross over the border to South America where they plan to drive down to Tierra de Fuego, Argentina. Driving back down to South America, where it all started, would be just the thing to see how his overlanding roots grew a tree of life.

Specs

Tacoma beast 2018 Toyota Tacoma

Engine:

• 3.5L
• 278 hp with Magnuson supercharger

Suspension:

• 2.5-inch King shocks

Wheels & Tires:

• Stealth Custom Series F5 16-inch with -25 Backspacing in front and rear
• Goodyear Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar 315x75x16

Interior Accessories:

• PRP seat covers
• Expedition Essentials 3 TPAM
• Yaesu Dual-Band Analog/Digital Mobile Transceiver System Fusion
• 4×4 sPod Bantamx

Exterior Accessories:

• DB Customz Drop in TCMBST grille
• Alpha Rex Nova Series headlights
• Spyder Auto taillights
• Heretic Studio roof rack and front bumper
• Warn VR Evo 8-S
• Jerricans and Roto Pax (42 gallon)
• Decked drawer system
• CBI 3T front bumper, High Clearance rear bumper,  bolt-on sliders with kickout
• Roam Rugged Cases
• Prinsu roof rack
• CVT Mt. Shasta Standard Stargazer Summit
• Locked Off-Road bumpstop

Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared in the Winter 2020 issue of YOTA Magazine. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of a rear bumper for Toyota Tacoma?

The Tacoma shows off the CBI Off road rear bumper with spare tire carrier, jerrican holder, and HiLift jack, while the bedrack holds his RTT and Tred Pro. This rugged rear bumper isn’t just for looks. It serves multiple purposes essential for off-road enthusiasts:

1. Protection: The bumper provides robust protection against rear-end collisions and off-road obstacles.
2. Utility: With integrated features like a spare tire carrier and jerrican holder, it enhances the vehicle’s utility, allowing for additional storage and essential gear.
3. Recovery: The HiLift jack mount ensures you’re prepared for on-the-go repairs and recovery situations.

By combining functionality with durability, this rear bumper is a key upgrade for anyone serious about off-roading adventures.

What does embracing the off-road journey with the TacomaBeast entail?

Embracing the Off-Road Journey: A TacomaBeast Adventure

Taking on the off-road lifestyle with a formidable vehicle like the TacomaBeast involves more than just the drive. It’s a comprehensive experience that blends adventure, skill-building, and environmental consciousness.

1. Plan Your Adventure

Start with identifying off-road trails and trips that align with your preferences and expertise. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weekend escape or plotting a multi-day trek, there’s an adventure tailored for every enthusiast.

2. Develop Your Off-Road Skills

Enhancing your ability to tackle diverse terrains is crucial. Enroll in specialized off-road driving classes or workshops. These will equip you with techniques to navigate tricky landscapes, handle unexpected situations, and carry out basic repairs while in remote areas.

3. Stay Environmentally Conscious

Adopting the off-road lifestyle means riding responsibly. Always stick to established pathways, minimize your environmental impact, and ensure you leave no trace of your presence.

4. Relish the Entire Experience

Off-roading is as much about the journey as the destination. Take in the spectacular vistas, enjoy the process, and appreciate the unique challenges along the way. The sense of achievement and the unforgettable experiences make every twist and turn worthwhile.

By immersing yourself fully in each of these aspects, the off-road journey becomes a fulfilling and exhilarating adventure.

How can you benefit from the knowledge and experience of fellow TacomaBeast owners?

Owning a TacomaBeast is more than just having a powerful vehicle; it’s about joining a vibrant community. Here’s how connecting with other owners can be advantageous:

Join the Conversation

1. Engage in Online Communities: Tap into forums and social media groups dedicated to TacomaBeastenthusiasts. These platforms are treasure troves of information, where you can ask questions, share experiences, and gain insights.
2. Local Meetups and Clubs: Participate in local gatherings of TacomaBeast owners. These events provide face-to-face interactions where you can exchange tips and see modifications firsthand.

Learn and Discover

• Off-Roading Tips: Experienced owners often share invaluable advice on tackling various terrains. Learn from their successes and mistakes to enhance your off-roading skills.
• Hidden Trails: Discover exciting new trails that you may not find in guidebooks, courtesy of recommendations from seasoned adventurers.

Tackle Modifications and Repairs

• DIY Guidance: Whether you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance or style, fellow owners can offer step-by-step advice on mods and customizations.
• Problem Solving: If you encounter issues, there’s a good chance someone in the community has faced and solved the same problem. Tap into their expertise to troubleshoot and resolve issues faster.

By engaging with other TacomaBeast owners, you not only learn but also contribute to a collective pool of knowledge that makes owning this vehicle even more rewarding.

What are some ways to plan and embrace off-road adventures with the TacomaBeast?

Planning and Embracing Off-Road Adventures with Your Truck

Embarking on an off-road adventure is an exhilarating way to explore nature and test your vehicle’s capabilities. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Craft Your Adventure

Start by designing off-road excursions that match your personal interests and experience. Whether you prefer a quick day trek or an extensive road expedition, planning is key. Check out forums and guides specific to off-roading to discover routes and destinations that cater to your desired level of challenge.

2. Master Essential Skills

Hone your off-roading abilities by enrolling in specialized courses or workshops. Acquiring skills in navigating rough terrains, devising strategies for unforeseen situations, and learning basic vehicle repairs will enhance both your confidence and safety while adventuring.

3. Practice Environmental Stewardship

Respect for nature is an integral part of off-roading. Ensure you follow designated pathways to avoid damaging the ecosystem, and always remember the principle of leaving no trace. This not only preserves the beauty of the trails but also ensures their availability for future adventurers.

4. Enjoy the Experience

The essence of off-roading extends beyond just reaching your destination; it’s about the journey itself. Revel in the impressive landscapes, relish the accomplishment that comes from overcoming obstacles, and immerse yourself in the distinctive challenges and joys each adventure brings.

Final Preparations

Before setting off, ensure that your truck is equipped with the necessary gear and equipment — think recovery tools, first-aid kits, and adequate supplies for your trip. By preparing well, you’ll ensure a rewarding and unforgettable off-road experience.

What customization options are available for the TacomaBeast to suit different off-road needs?

Customization Options for Your TacomaBeast: Tailor Your Off-Road Experience

When it comes to creating your perfect off-road vehicle, customization is key, and the TacomaBeast offers plenty of options to help you craft your ideal ride. Here are some of the customization choices available to match your diverse off-road needs:

1. Suspension Upgrades
   Tackle any terrain by choosing from a variety of suspension upgrades. Whether you’re looking to conquer challenging rocks or seeking a smoother ride on rugged trails, these enhancements will provide the support and resilience your Tacoma needs.
2. Winches and Recovery Gear
   Prepare for any off-road scenario with the right winch and recovery tools. Essential for pulling your vehicle out of tough spots, these accessories ensure you’re rarely stranded when adventure calls.
3. Bumper and Skid Plates
   Add heavy-duty bumpers and skid plates to protect your vehicle from rocks and other obstacles. This layer of defense allows you to explore rough terrains without fear of damaging vital components.
4. Lighting Solutions
   Illuminate your path with advanced lighting systems. LED bars and auxiliary lights improve visibility during night-time excursions, keeping you safe and on track, no matter the conditions.
5. Roof Racks and Storage Options
   Expand your cargo capacity with roof racks and storage solutions. Perfect for long-distance journeys or camping trips, these additions ensure you have room for all your necessities.
6. Tires and Wheels
   Enhance your grip and control by selecting the right tires and wheels for different terrains. Whether you’re crawling over rocks or driving through mud, there’s a tire to match your adventure.

The beauty of the TacomaBeast lies in its adaptability. With these various options, you can transform it from a rugged off-road warrior into a dependable overland traveler, and everything in between. As your off-road experience evolves, so too can your TacomaBeast, allowing it to grow with your skills and aspirations.

How does the TacomaBeast enhance the off-road lifestyle experience?

Mateo found the entry into overland building intimidating and wanted to create a safe place for other people to share their builds, post the newbie questions, get help and guidance, and, ultimately, start a true Tacoma overlanding community. So, that’s what he did. It didn’t come easy and he poured his heart into this project, which had no intentions of becoming a real business. He truly had a desire to share information within the community and inspire others. Eventually, the Tacomabeast page morphed from being just Mateo’s build to featuring other rigs. The likes, followers, comments, and shares started to amass, and this “project” grew legs very quickly.

But what makes this community, and the TacomaBeast itself, so pivotal in the off-road lifestyle? It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a canvas for adventure and a tool for unlocking new experiences. With the TacomaBeast, enthusiasts can:

• Plan Epic Adventures: Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a multi-day expedition, the TacomaBeast is equipped to handle them all, turning every journey into an unforgettable experience.
• Develop Core Skills: The community encourages learning essential off-roading techniques through courses and workshops. This ensures drivers are prepared for diverse terrains and know how to handle emergencies and perform basic repairs.
• Respect and Preserve Nature: Emphasizing responsible off-roading, the community advocates for sticking to designated trails and minimizing environmental impact, ensuring these beautiful landscapes remain pristine for future explorers.
• Embrace the Full Experience: Off-roading with the TacomaBeast isn’t just about reaching a destination. It’s about enjoying the scenic views, celebrating the small victories along the way, and appreciating the unique challenges that come with the territory.

Mateo’s vision not only brought together a community but also enhanced the off-road lifestyle by promoting a spirit of adventure, learning, and respect. The TacomaBeast is more than a vehicle—it’s a passport to a world where every path leads to new stories waiting to be told.

How does the TacomaBeast handle challenging terrains and inclines?

The truck sits on 2.5-inch King shocks, 16-inch Stealth Custom Series F5 wheels, and 315/75-16 GoodyearWrangler MT/Rs with Kevlar. While the install is pending, the rig will also benefit from a Stage 3 Deaver leaf pack, supported by Locked Off-Road bumpstops. All this finely tuned suspension makes for a perfect ride on and off the trails.

Master Challenging Terrains with Confidence

The robust setup ensures that every adventure is met with ease. The King shocks absorb rough impacts, providing a smooth ride over rocky paths and uneven surfaces. Whether you’re charging up steep inclines or navigating tight trails, the truck’s engineering ensures stability and control.

• Approach with Ease: The precision of the suspension system allows for impressive approach angles, enabling you to tackle steep climbs without hesitation.
• Clearance and Maneuverability: With the Deaver leaf pack and Locked Off-Road bumpstops, you can confidently crawl over obstacles while maintaining optimal clearance, preventing any potential hang-ups.

Unyielding Performance Across Terrains

These features are not just components but a cohesive system that transforms challenging terrains into thrilling adventures. The combination of wheels and Kevlar-reinforced tires provides the grip and durability needed for both mud and sand, ensuring you’re prepared for any landscape. Whether cruising through desert dunes or forest trails, this setup delivers the muscle and finesse required to conquer it all.

How can off-roaders minimize their impact on the environment while using the TacomaBeast?

Mateo urges everyone to pick up a Trasharoo or something similar, help preserve nature and the trails we use, and leave no trace behind. As passionate off-roaders, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our adventures don’t harm the environment.

Start by sticking to designated trails. This simple act helps protect untouched areas and maintains the natural landscape. While on the trails, be mindful of your impact—drive gently and avoid creating new paths that could lead to erosion or disturb wildlife habitats.

In addition to collecting your trash, consider the principle of minimizing your footprint. Bring along tools to manage waste and repair any minor trail damage you might encounter. By practicing these habits, we can continue to enjoy the great outdoors without compromising its beauty for future explorers.

What makes the TacomaBeast a reliable companion for off-road adventures?

“The Tacomabeast gets driven … hard. In fact, Mateo just finished a trip with Ken Hoglund on the Pony Express where he spent every night sleeping in his CVT Mt. Shasta Stargazer Summit tent. The two beastly Tacomas covered 673 miles of pure off-road terrain from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe. The longest trip this rig has seen so far was 6,281 miles from Miami to Idaho, then to California, then back to Miami. So yes, this truck gets driven hard.”

But what truly makes the TacomaBeast a steadfast companion on such grueling adventures? It’s not just the miles it covers but how it’s built to endure them.

• Meticulous Craftsmanship: The TacomaBeast is designed with precision, utilizing top-quality materials that are made to last. This ensures that whether you’re navigating rocky trails or muddy paths, the vehicle stands resilient.
• Durable Construction: Its robust frame and durable suspension are crafted to handle the rigors of off-road exploration, providing a ride that’s as smooth as it is sturdy.
• Legendary Reliability: With a reputation for being unfailingly reliable, the TacomaBeast allows you to focus on the journey ahead without the worry of unexpected breakdowns. This legendary reliability gives you the confidence to tackle any trail with peace of mind.

Mateo’s extensive trips are a testament to this reliability. The TacomaBeast isn’t just about surviving the trip; it’s about thriving in every mile, every terrain, proving it’s built to go the distance.

How is the TacomaBeast constructed to endure tough conditions?

The TacomaBeast is engineered for the ultimate off-road adventure, crafted with precision and top-tier materials to face the harshest terrains. Its robust design ensures longevity, from the sturdy frame to the resilient suspension system, every element is purpose-built to conquer the wilderness.

The truck sits on 2.5-inch King shocks, 16-inch Stealth Custom Series F5 wheels, and 315/75-16 Goodyear Wrangler MT/Rs with Kevlar. While the install is pending, the rig will also benefit from a Stage 3 Deaver leaf pack, supported by Locked Off-Road bumpstops. All this finely tuned suspension makes for a perfect ride on and off the trails.

This meticulous construction means the TacomaBeast isn’t just prepared for off-road challenges; it thrives in them. Every component, from the ground up, is chosen for its ability to endure and excel in tough conditions, ensuring that adventurers can push boundaries with confidence.

What type of armor and protective features does the Tacoma Beast have for off-road use?

The Tacoma Beast is built for rugged off-road adventures, equipped with a range of protective features to tackle any terrain with confidence. Up front, it’s fitted with a robust off-road bumper that provides essential protection against impacts and obstacles. At the rear, a durable bumper comes fully equipped with a swing-out gate, complete with a tire carrier and an integrated table for added utility.

To shield the vehicle’s undercarriage, the front skid plate adds an extra layer of defense against rough terrain. For additional security, this beast features a battery cage and a fuse block bracket, ensuring the electrical components are safeguarded.

Beneath the doors, reinforced sliders with kick outs offer both protection and functionality, guarding the sides while providing a step for easier cabin access. These carefully selected features make the Tacoma Beast a formidable presence on any off-road path.

What storage or carrying solutions have been added to the Tacoma Beast?

For additional storage and carrying capacity, a Prinsu Roof Rack has been installed, along with a Rotopax gasoline container for extra fuel storage during extended trips.

What lighting enhancements have been implemented on the Tacoma Beast?

The vehicle’s lighting has been upgraded with products from Rigid Industries and Heretic, ensuring superior illumination for off-road adventures.

What specific upgrades have been made to enhance the Tacoma Beast’s electrical system?

The Tacoma Beast’s electrical system has been enhanced with an Optima Marine Battery, providing reliable power, and a Switch Pro power panel system, which offers streamlined control over all added accessories.

What suspension upgrades were made to the Tacoma Beast for off-road performance?

While the install is pending, the rig will also benefit from a Stage 3 Deaver leaf pack, supported by Locked Off-Road bumpstops. This addition is just part of a comprehensive upgrade aimed at conquering tough terrain with ease.

The Tacoma Beast boasts a meticulously crafted suspension setup designed for serious off-road challenges, including:

• Total Chaos Upper and Lower Control Arms: These components enhance stability and control.
• King Coilovers in Front with Remote Reservoirs: Delivering superior shock absorption for a smoother ride.
• King Rear Remote Reservoir Shocks: Offering exceptional durability and performance on rugged paths.
• Dakar Rear Leaf Springs: Ensuring robust support and flexibility for varying loads.
• Bed Stiffeners: Adding structural integrity to handle rough conditions.

All this finely tuned suspension makes for a perfect ride on and off the trails. With these upgrades, the Tacoma is not just ready to tackle the trails—it’s ready to dominate them.

What type of shocks and coilovers were installed?

The vehicle is equipped with advanced front coilovers and rear shocks, both featuring remote reservoirs for enhanced performance and heat management.