Toyota Aiming for All-Electric Hilux in 2025
Toyota is getting into the electric game, revealing plans to make an electric version of their popular Hilux by 2025. The move puts Toyota alongside rivals like Isuzu, who also plan to launch an electric version of their D-Max around the same time.
The big news came from Noriaki Yamashita, who heads Toyota’s operations in Thailand. This step marks a major move for Toyota towards making electric vehicles.
Before they start churning out the electric Hilux on a large scale, Toyota wants to see how it performs in the real world. So, they’re going to test twelve of them in Pattaya, Thailand, to see how they hold up as public transport. This trial run will help Toyota figure out any kinks before they go full steam ahead.
A Glimpse into the Future
They’re keeping mum about exactly what the production model of the electric Hilux will look like and what it can do. But they did give us a hint with the Hilux Revo BEV Urban Taxi Concept, which is electric and has a single-cab design.
Toyota isn’t just stopping at electric though. They’re also looking into using hydrogen fuel-cell technology in the Hilux and have even made a mild-hybrid version of the current turbo-diesel engine for Australia.
People were skeptical at first about how well an electric utility vehicle like the Hilux would perform. But Toyota says their prototype handles just fine, with enough torque to do the job.
This move by Toyota isn’t just about one car though. They’re aiming to electrify nearly all their models by 2030. It’s all part of the wider trend in the car industry towards more eco-friendly options.
By adding an electric version of the Hilux to their lineup, Toyota is stepping into a crowded market. But it’s a move that shows they’re serious about embracing the future of cars.