Toyota’s first-ever battery electric Hilux will be available for New Zealand customers to pre-order towards the end of May, marking a significant milestone in the company’s electrification strategy.
The Hilux battery electric vehicle (BEV) joins the newly launched ninth-generation Hilux range and has been designed to reduce tailpipe emissions for fleet and private buyers while maintaining Toyota’s signature quality, durability and reliability.
Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis says the arrival of the Hilux BEV represents a crucial step in providing consumers with powertrain choice.
“Offering both Kiwi businesses and private buyers the choice of a Hilux with zero tailpipe emissions is a crucial step forward in providing consumers the right powertrain for the right application, at the right time,” Davis says.
The electric ute will be available exclusively in double-cab configuration with either cab chassis or wellside variants, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain in mid-specification SR or premium SR5 trim levels.
Target applications
Davis says the Hilux BEV would be ideal for everyday operational roles and predictable routes, particularly where charging is easily accessible and daily travel distances are less than 200km.
“From patrolling airport runways, moving equipment around a vineyard or orchard, to regional highway inspections, the Hilux BEV would fit seamlessly into many working environments. But don’t underestimate its capability – it certainly holds its own on rugged terrain too,” he says.
The zero-emissions ute would suit infrastructure and construction companies, farmers, horticulturists, trades, eco-tourism operators and local government contractors operating within defined areas where charging takes place at base locations. The lack of emissions and minimal noise provides advantages when working with livestock or in orchards.
Technical specifications
The Hilux BEV features a newly developed 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery paired with a dual-motor AWD system producing combined system output of 144kW. Torque distribution is variably controlled between front and rear axles during on-road driving to provide high-traction full-time AWD.
For off-road use, Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select traction control system offers six different drive modes, adjusting wheel slip to maintain traction in challenging conditions. The vehicle maintains the same 700mm wading depth as the standard Hilux.
The battery offers DC charging capability, replenishing from 10 to 80 percent charge in as little as 30 minutes. The 10kW three-phase AC charging capacity can charge from 10 to 100 percent in approximately 5.5 hours.
Driving range for the cab chassis variant is rated at 245km on the NEDC cycle, while wellside variants achieve 315km. When fitted with a Toyota Genuine Accessories towbar, the Hilux BEV can tow a maximum 2000kg braked and 750kg unbraked.
Testing and development
To ensure the Hilux BEV can handle New Zealand conditions, Toyota conducted comprehensive testing in collaboration with leading Australian mining fleets. The vehicles were trialled in real-world, high-demand environments from hot temperature remote outback operations to off-road terrains.
Since arriving in New Zealand, the Hilux BEV has been tested against its diesel counterpart in challenging off-road situations, according to Davis.
The electric ute features a uniquely developed suspension system with frame reinforcements, enhanced MacPherson strut front suspension and a De-dion rear leaf spring setup accommodating the rear electric motor while retaining the live axle configuration.
Safety features include Toyota Safety Sense with Pre-Collision System with motorcycle detection, Intersection Collision Avoidance, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beam and Lane Tracing Assist. The SR Wellside and SR5 variants add Panoramic View Monitor, four front and rear sensors and Parking Support Brake.
The Hilux BEV is distinguished by its closed-off upper front grille and aerodynamically enhanced 17-inch alloy wheels. Two exterior paint colours will be available: Glacier White and Ash.
Pricing will be announced later this month.
