Toyota Australia formally confirmed that the present era of the Hilux will get a mild-hybrid choice beginning within the first half of 2024, based mostly on the present turbodiesel powertrain.

The two.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine will likely be upgraded with a 48-Volt gentle hybrid system, leading to a ten% enchancment in gas economic system figures. The turbodiesel unit will work along with a small electrical motor /generator and a 48-Volt battery, whereas the facility will likely be transmitted to the wheels by way of a 6-speed computerized transmission.

Extra: SEA Electrical Will Convert 8,500 Toyota Hilux And Land Cruiser To EVs For Mining

Toyota didn’t reveal the detailed specs however promised “enhanced on and off-road efficiency” hinting at a slight enhance in energy and torque figures. Different advantages will embody “decreased noise, vibration, and harshness” because of the cease/begin system. Lastly, electrification received’t have an effect on the off-road credentials and the three,500 kg (7,716 kilos) braked towing capability of the Hilux.

In Australia, the gentle hybrid diesel engine will come commonplace within the high-spec 4×4 SR5 and Rogue Double Cab trims, or as an choice within the 4×4 SR Double Cab. We additionally count on the electrified mannequin to succeed in different markets in Asia and Africa. Following its introduction within the Hilux, the identical powertrain may also discover its means into the mechanically-related Fortuner SUV.

A Toyota Hilux MHEV Idea Was Showcased At The WRC Safari Rally Kenya

Toyota previewed the upcoming manufacturing variant with a Hilux GR-S MHEV prototype on the WRC Safari Rally Kenya. The mildly electrified pickup was pushed by four-time WRC Champion Juha Kankkunen, whereas Kenyan actor Jimmi Gathu was the co-driver. Kankkunen stated that the Hilux MHEV is a becoming car for Africa’s long-distance drives, utilizing much less gas and producing decrease emissions.

On an analogous word, Toyota describes mild-hybrid expertise as “an essential choice for speedy CO2 discount” in areas with restricted EV charging infrastructure which is the case even in “well-developed” African nations like Kenya or South Africa.

What About The Subsequent-Gen Hilux?

The present eighth-generation Toyota Hilux is in its twilight years having debuted again in 2015, with two subsequent facelifts in 2017 and in 2020. The corporate makes no point out of the next-gen Hilux, however based on the most recent rumors, it may very well be prepared for a 2025 debut. The brand new midsize pickup is anticipated to share its TNGA- underpinnings with the US-spec Toyota Tacoma, and certain deliver a heavier dose of electrification into the combination.

Toyota has experimented with varied environmentally-friendly options based mostly on the present Hilux. One in all them is the absolutely electrical Hilux Revo BEV idea that premiered in Thailand in December 2022, and one other one is the UK-built Hilux prototype fitted with a Mirai-sourced hydrogen FCEV powertrain. It stays to be seen if these options will discover their means into manufacturing, as a part of the next-gen mannequin’s lineup.