HiLux BEV – Toyota has updated its HiLux range for 2026. Amongst the details were two bits of interesting information. They are releasing an electric HiLux in 2026 and there is a Hydrogen FCEV planned for 2028.
Toyota HiLux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)
As part of Toyota’s philosophy of providing solutions for buyers across many pathways, the HiLux BEV will be available mid-2026. It aimed mainly at fleet buyers. This includes the three levels of government that have to tick green boxes.
Available in double-cab 4×4 SR and SR5 guise, an electric motor will underpin BEV grades on each axle, paired with a lithium-ion battery. The company will reveal further details on the BEV powertrain closer to its local launch in H1, 2026.
As best as we can determine from overseas releases the details are as follows.
- Powered by a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery.
- dual electric motors (205Nm front, 268.6Nm rear) providing “permanent all-wheel drive”.
- 715kg payload (approx.).
- 1600kg towing capacity (approx.); and
- a WLTP driving range of approximately 240km.
As you can see from these estimated details, they won’t use the HiLux BEV for heavy duty work. It aims at light duty close proximity driving.
Now to the HFCEV – Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle
Hydrogen has been mooted as an alternative for petroleum based products for some time.
A few manufacturers have dabbled with it over the years.
There are two key issues. The production of Hydrogen and the infrastructure.
Producing hydrogen is energy inefficient for the most part.
Second is the infrastructure. There are plenty of petrol stations around and hydrogen can easily replace LPG. However, that hasn’t happened and it’s a chicken and egg situation.
Despite all that Toyota has said they are introducing a Hydrogen FCEV Hilux in 2028.
We will publish more details when we have them.
