Buckle up, off-road warriors and eco-conscious drivers! Toyota has officially announced plans to unleash a fully electric version of their legendary Hilux pickup truck. This exciting news, revealed at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show, positions Toyota as a major contender in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) pickup segment.
Thailand: A Hub for Electrified Pickups
The Land of Smiles is fast becoming a hotspot for electric truck development. Thailand boasts a robust automotive manufacturing industry, with pickup trucks at the forefront of both domestic production and export. Recognizing the growing demand for sustainable transportation, Toyota joins Isuzu, another Japanese automaker, in capitalizing on the electric pickup truck craze.
Isuzu D-Max EV: Setting the Stage
Just last week, Isuzu unveiled their first-ever electric vehicle – a powerful BEV based on the D-Max platform. This impressive offering boasts the same towing and payload capabilities as its gasoline-powered counterpart. Built on the familiar D-Max V-Cross ladder frame chassis, the Isuzu D-Max EV is slated for a 2025 launch in Europe, with other markets to follow. Isuzu is also introducing a mild-hybrid D-Max, a move that directly challenges Toyota’s existing mild-hybrid Hilux variant.
Toyota Hilux EV: Arriving in 2025!
Noriaki Yamashita, a prominent figure at Toyota’s Thai division, confirmed the development of the much-anticipated Hilux EV. This electric beast is scheduled for a grand debut by the end of 2025, although the exact production location remains under wraps. Thailand’s burgeoning EV market, fueled by significant investments from Chinese EV giants like BYD, Changan, and Great Wall Motors, makes it a strong contender for Hilux EV production.
Specs Still Under Wraps, But Excitement Brews
While Toyota remains tight-lipped about the Hilux EV’s technical specifications, we can glean insights from the recently revealed Isuzu D-Max EV. The D-Max EV boasts a robust full-time 4WD system with innovative “e-Axles,” a 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and a powerful electric motor setup. The front axle features a 53 hp and 108 Nm motor, while the rear boasts a 121 hp and 217 Nm powerhouse. Combining these forces delivers a total system output of 174 hp and 325 Nm, surpassing the capabilities of the standard 1.9L diesel-powered D-Max.
The Future of Off-Roading is Electric!
The arrival of the Toyota Hilux EV marks a significant shift in the off-roading landscape. Adventure seekers and eco-conscious drivers can now experience the thrill of conquering challenging terrains without compromising on environmental responsibility. With Toyota’s proven track record of reliability and performance, the Hilux EV is poised to become a game-changer in the electric truck segment. Stay tuned for further updates as we inch closer to the official reveal of this electrifying pickup truck!
