Discover the new Toyota Hilux electric truck – a 59.2 kWh BEV with four‑wheel drive, off‑road mode, and reduced payload. Learn its specs and future plans. Read more now.
The legendary Toyota Hilux – long celebrated for surviving mud, floods, and even crane drops – is entering a new era. At the Brussels Motor Show, Toyota unveiled the 9th‑generation Hilux for Europe, offering two electrified powertrains: a 2.8‑litre diesel mild‑hybrid and, for the first time, a pure‑electric BEV version.
Why an Electric Hilux Matters
European regulations are tightening emissions standards, and fleet operators are increasingly looking for lower‑running‑cost vehicles. The Hilux BEV is Toyota’s answer, aiming to keep the truck’s renowned off‑road DNA while delivering zero‑tailpipe emissions.
Powertrain Details
The BEV is equipped with a 59.2 kWh lithium‑ion battery and dual electric motors – one on each axle – providing permanent four‑wheel drive. The front motor delivers 205 Nm of torque, while the rear motor offers 268 Nm, giving the vehicle instant torque across the full speed range.
According to WLTP testing, the electric Hilux can travel about 258 km on a single charge, extending to roughly 380 km in city driving where regenerative braking is most effective. While respectable for a pickup, the range is modest compared with passenger EVs, which may limit its appeal in markets that demand long hauls.
Payload and Towing Trade‑offs
To accommodate the battery pack, the BEV’s payload drops to 715 kg, and its maximum towing capacity falls to 1,600 kg – a noticeable reduction from the diesel’s 1,000 kg payload and 3,500 kg tow rating. For many commercial users, the diesel mild‑hybrid (2.8 L, 201 hp) will remain the workhorse, especially in the UK and other EU nations where the 48‑V system continues to be offered alongside a non‑hybrid diesel option.
Design Language – “Cyber Sumo”
Both the hybrid and electric models adopt Toyota’s new “Cyber Sumo” aesthetic, developed by the Australian design team. The styling emphasizes bold, linear forms and a muscular silhouette that signals a modern, large‑size pickup. The BEV can be identified by its closed front grille and revised bumper design.
Off‑Road Capability Retained
Despite the electric drivetrain, the Hilux BEV keeps key off‑road attributes: a ladder‑type frame, 212 mm ground clearance, and water fording depth up to 700 mm. An exclusive off‑road drive mode harnesses the instant torque and regenerative braking for enhanced traction on challenging terrain.
Interior Technology
The cabin receives a high‑tech refresh, featuring a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen that mirrors the layout of the latest Land Cruiser. Physical buttons remain for frequently used functions, blending familiarity with modernity. Advanced driver‑assist systems are standard across the lineup.
Future Powertrain Plans
Beyond the BEV, Toyota confirmed ongoing development of a hydrogen‑fuel‑cell version of the Hilux, with prototype testing already underway. This multi‑path strategy showcases the brand’s commitment to offering diverse zero‑emission solutions during the transition period.
Vietnam Market Outlook
Given the reduced payload and range, the electric Hilux is unlikely to be introduced in Vietnam in the near term. The new generation will debut locally later this month in a diesel‑only configuration, catering to the region’s demand for conventional powertrains.
Pricing and Availability
Sales of the new Hilux will start in the United Kingdom from June. Official pricing – expected to be higher than the outgoing model – will be announced in the coming months.
With its blend of rugged heritage and electrified performance, the Toyota Hilux BEV marks a significant step toward a cleaner future for one of the world’s most iconic pickups.