Could this fully-electric Toyota Hilux serve as a reprieve to those crying at the cost of diesel today?
Coming at just about the right time with diesel prices going through the roof, Toyota has recently launched an all-electric variant of its Hilux in Malaysia. This tailpipe-less pickup incidentally marks the first local appearance of the all-new ninth-generation model, and it incidentally arrives as part of a trio of Toyota BEVs that includes the bZ4X and Urban Cruiser.
Now starting with the big news regarding its lack of an engine under its hood, the Hilux EV is instead driven by a dual-motor setup, with one motor on each axle. Up front sits a unit producing 111 hp and 206 Nm, while the rear motor delivers 175 hp and 267 Nm, for a combined output of 196 hp.
Battery-wise meanwhile, this fully-electric Hilux packs a 59.2 kWh NMC unit, which unfortunately translates to a rather modest WLTP-rated range of 257 km. Thankfully however, the battery supports up to 125 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10 to 80% top-up in around 30 minutes. AC charging in turn tops out at 10 kW, with a full 10 to 100% charge taking approximately 6.5 hours.
Elsewhere along the truck, the Hilux EV continues to ride on Toyota’s Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) ladder-frame platform, first introduced on the seventh-generation model. There are nevertheless some key changes underneath, namely a new de Dion rear suspension with leaf springs to accommodate the rear motor. A first-for-Hilux electric power steering system also comes as standard, promising improved precision while being lighter for easier low-speed manoeuvring.
Unfortunately here, it has to be said that the Hilux’s utilitarian ability does take a hit from the switch to electrification. Payload capacity drops to 750 kg, down from the usual one tonne, while towing capacity is reduced to 1.6 tonnes, less than half of the typical 3.5 tonnes. That said, it retains a respectable 212 mm ground clearance and up to 700 mm of water wading capability.
Moving on to its exterior aesthetics, Toyota’s ‘Cyber Sumo’ design language is on full display with this ninth-generation Hilux. Up front sits a slim set of LED headlights with C-shaped DRLs, connected by a black bar bearing the Toyota script. The absence of a traditional grille further highlights its EV nature, while aero-optimised 17-inch alloy wheels help claw back some aerodynamic efficiency for this otherwise boxy truck.
Down the side meanwhile, it is worth noting that the ninth-generation Hilux retains much of its familiar centre cab profile. The rear bed has nonetheless been subtly updated, with it now featuring new T-shaped taillights and a redesigned rear bumper with integrated side steps.
Turning towards the inside, the cabin design has borrowed heavily from the rugged Land Cruiser. Twin 12.3-inch displays handle both instrumentation and infotainment duties, the latter supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other kit includes a Qi wireless charger, an electronic parking brake, an eight-speaker audio system, a front dash cam, and a 360-degree camera with Multi-Terrain Monitor off-road view.
On the safety front, the addition of electric power steering and an electronic parking brake enables Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centring assist. These are complemented by the usual suite of aids such as autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, parking AEB and auto high beam. Seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, and stability control also come as standard.
And for those who actually plan to take this EV pickup off the beaten path, the Hilux BEV also debuts a Multi-Terrain Select system, a first for a Toyota EV. It features five selectable modes: Rock, Sand, Mud, Dirt and Mogul, the latter designed for uneven, bumpy surfaces. The system actively manages drive force, braking and torque distribution to maintain traction across varying terrains.
Finally here, to touch on the elephant in the room, while this Hilux EV may no longer need to guzzle increasingly expensive diesel, it is unlikely to immediately dethrone its popular combustion-powered counterpart… And big part of that comes down to price, with this all-electric pickup retailing at a whopping RM 226,300, which for context is nearly a Myvi more than the range-topping GR Sport Hilux, which currently sits at RM173,280.
In any case, for those who still are interested in an EV Hilux, three exterior colours are available: Super White 2, Ash, and Platinum White Pearl, with the latter commanding an additional RM 800. The Hilux EV also comes with a five-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty, alongside an eight-year unlimited mileage battery warranty, extendable by a further two years for RM 5,700.
