Toyota's legendary Hilux pick-up goes electric

The Toyota Hilux, a global symbol of toughness and reliability, is finally plugging in. The Hilux name has been forever synonymous with diesel engines and go-anywhere durability. Now, Toyota has unveiled its all-new, ninth-generation pick-up, and the biggest news is a model that runs on batteries.

The new electric Hilux BEV is part of Toyota's "multipath" strategy. Unlike some companies betting everything on batteries, Toyota is offering choices. The new Hilux line-up will also include a 48V hybrid (expected to be the big seller in Western Europe) and traditional gasoline and diesel engines (for Eastern European markets). Toyota even confirmed that a hydrogen fuel cell electric Hilux is planned for 2028.

Toyota built the BEV model on the same tough, body-on-frame foundation as its gas-powered siblings. This is good news for durability. Tucked under the floor is a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This battery powers two motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear. These "eAxles" give the Hilux permanent all-wheel drive with the front motor delivering 151 lb-ft of torque, and the rear motor pushing 198.1 lb-ft.

The truck has been designed to be tough, with special measures to protect the battery from rocks, bumps, and water. The company claims the electric Hilux has the same wading depth as the standard diesel model, so it should still handle flooded roads or river crossings. It also features a Multi-Terrain Select system, which uses the brakes and motors to find grip on tricky surfaces, mimicking a traditional 4x4 low-range gearbox.

The big question for any pick-up, especially an electric one, is: can it still do truck stuff? Toyota has released some early, approximate figures for the BEV model, confirming it is targeting a payload capacity of around 1,576 lb, and a towing capacity of 3,527 lb.

These are modest numbers at best. A 3,527 lb towing capacity is not going to worry competitors or impress contractors who haul heavy equipment. This suggests Toyota is aiming the first electric Hilux directly at fleet customers. These are businesses that need a zero-emission truck for city deliveries or light-duty work, not a heavy-duty workhorse.

Then there is the range. Toyota estimates the new Hilux will travel approximately 149 miles on a full charge (based on the WLTP cycle). This is not a long-distance champion. That 149 miles figure will almost certainly drop significantly if the truck is loaded with its 1,576 lb payload or is pulling a 3,527 lb trailer. This short range confirms the truck is best suited for predictable, local routes. To make up for the small battery, Toyota says it is "targeting best-in-class charging capabilities" to minimize downtime, but it did not provide specific charging speeds or times.

The entire ninth-generation Hilux range gets a new "Tough and Agile" design. The BEV model stands out with a unique front end. Because it doesn't need a traditional radiator grille to cool an engine, it has a smooth, aerodynamic panel and dedicated alloy wheels. Toyota has also decided to offer the new Hilux only as a Double Cab, dropping other body styles.

Inside, the cabin gets a major upgrade inspired by the new Land Cruiser. The old, plasticky dashboard is gone. In its place is a modern, horizontal layout featuring a 12.3-inch digital display for the driver and a large central multimedia touchscreen that is also available up to 12.3 inches. The BEV model gets a simple, space-saving shift-by-wire drive selector. New tech includes a wireless device charger, rear USB ports, and a new rear deck step for easier bed access.

Toyota is also boosting the truck's safety technology. The new Hilux will feature the Toyota T-Mate package, which includes an upgraded Toyota Safety Sense. This adds new functions like Proactive Driving Assist and an Emergency Driving Stop System. The truck will also be capable of receiving over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Toyota plans to begin the market rollout of the new Hilux, starting with the Hilux BEV, in December 2025.

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