New Toyota Hilux
Even when Hilux has multiple PHEV rivals, there are no immediate plans to introduce a PHEV variant
PHEVs have become hugely popular across global markets. Toyota has good options in this segment such as the RAV4, Prius and Lexus NX 450h+ & RX 450h+. However, in the case of workhorses like the Hilux, Toyota is currently not considering a PHEV powertrain. Toyota believes that the current PHEV technology may not meet the heavy-duty requirements of the pickup segment.
No PHEV for Hilux
Toyota is not currently planning a PHEV version of Hilux, even when there are multiple rivals. From the consumer’s perspective, PHEV pickup options include Ford Ranger, GWM Cannon Alpha, BYD Shark 6 and Nissan Frontier Pro. There are new products as well such as the upcoming Chery Stockman. Toyota has significant experience in building HEVs and PHEVs, but is not pursuing the strategy for Hilux.
New Toyota Hilux
Toyota’s main concern is that a PHEV version will reduce the towing and payload capabilities of Hilux. Toyota understands that performance expectations with the Hilux are quite different in comparison to pickups from other brands. This is especially true for real-world conditions, where users have to tackle a variety of challenging situations.
A PHEV will require Hilux to use a heavy high-voltage traction battery. When combined with a full mechanical 4WD system, it significantly increases the vehicle’s kerb weight. This in turn reduces the vehicle’s max payload and towing capability. Packaging the PHEV setup could also be a challenge, considering the classic, rugged ladder-frame architecture of Hilux. A PHEV version is likely to result in reduced rear passenger legroom and cargo bed depth.
New Toyota Hilux
Hilux towing and payload capability
Hilux is currently available with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine that generates 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. This engine is also available with a 48V mild hybrid setup in select markets. Hilux is also available in BEV format with a dual motor AWD setup in markets like Europe. The diesel version has a payload capacity of 1,000 kg or 1 ton and towing capacity of 3,500 kg. With the BEV version offering just 2,000 kg of towing capacity, a PHEV variant is unlikely to match the diesel variant’s towing and payload capabilities.
Hydrogen powered Hilux under development
While avoiding strong hybrids and PHEVs for Hilux, Toyota is working on a Hydrogen Fuel Cell (FCEV) version of the pickup. This could work since hydrogen is around 150 times more energy dense than lithium-ion batteries used in PHEVs. Hydrogen powered Hilux will be using lightweight carbon-fibre high-pressure tanks. This setup will also include a fuel cell stack and a tiny electric buffer battery.
Hydrogen powered Hilux will have a lower dry weight in comparison to a PHEV version. As such, it will have a higher payload and significantly better towing capacity. Also, the Hilux FCEV is expected to have a range of over 600 km. A Hilux FCEV can refuel in around 3 to 5 minutes, which will be another major benefit for users and fleet operators.
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