Toyota has only just revealed one of the most revolutionary things to ever happen in pickup trucks, announcing that for the first time, it is going electric in its legendary HiLux brand, which is going to get an electric engine in the ninth generation of this line of vehicles that is a totally different concept from what is generally known in the automotive world, but what is even more important to understand in this revolutionary step is this.
The electric HiLux retains a legendary level of off-road performance
The HiLux BEV retains the body-on-frame design characteristic of Toyota vehicles, as well as features to protect the electric batteries from damage. Engineers at Toyota have also ensured that even in the electric model, water wading depth capacity is retained as in other models of this brand, signifying Toyota’s dedication to upholding this truck’s legendary off-road capabilities. The electric truck is equipped with dual electric motors for all-wheel drive systems, producing 205Nm of torque at the front wheels, as well as 268.6Nm of torque at the rear wheels.
A lithium-ion battery capacity of 59.2kWh supports a range of approximately 240 kilometers based on WLTP, although Toyota aims for fastest-in-class charging times to keep downtime to a minimum when using this model. The Multi-Terrain function features brake control designed for varying types of off-road surfaces, which is similar in range to standard L4 vehicles but provides electric support to this model as well.
Key electric powertrain specifications include:
- Battery capacity: 59.2 kWh lithium-ion system
- Range: Approximately 240 km WLTP cycle
- Payload: 715 kg maximum carrying capacity
- Towing: 1,600 kg braked trailer capability
The multipath strategy provides an unprecedented level of engine diversity
Toyota’s multipath philosophy acknowledges that no single solution is available to deal with different customer needs, which is why this latest version of HiLux is the most diversified Toyota model available in the market to date. Varieties of this model include those that run on battery electric, 48V hybrid, diesel, as well as gasoline, but Toyota has also unveiled another fuel source in hydrogen cells to be available by 2028.
The 48V hybrid range is established as the volume seller in Western Europe, as it comes equipped with a lithium-ion battery positioned below the rear seats to maintain a spacious interior. This range is accompanied by the 2.8-liter engine for a refined driving experience, along with a payload capacity of a tonne and towing of up to 3,500 kg, in addition to those of internal combustion engine models in Eastern Europe, which provide coverage of customer needs in this region via differentiated range offerings.
Launches in the market in December 2025, positioned as a premium brand
The launch of the completely fresh HiLux range starts in December 2025, with the BEV offering, which is followed by hybrid models in spring 2026. Price expectations in the UK market indicate that the electric offering is likely to be priced at £60,000 (including VAT) to compete in the premium segment of the commercial vehicles category, as of now. The inside of the car is also completely overhauled, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, wireless device charging, and an increased set of connectivity options via Toyota’s MyToyota app.
Toyota’s official verification of its all-electric HiLux lineup is more than just another electrification launch, as it is also an indication of a revolution in one of the most beloved commercial vehicles in the world. As Toyota continues to cater to legendary durability, it simultaneously pursues ambitious zero-emission technologies, ensuring that electric vehicles possess capabilities to honor demanded commercial performance expectations in terms of speed, capabilities, and mechanical durability standards. Launching in 2026, Toyota leads an electric pickup truck revolution in this industry.
