Electric HiLux arrives for testing Down Under

TOYOTA Australia has brought a fully electric (BEV) version of the HiLux one-tonne ute here to assess it for local consumption; though it is not yet known if the model is a single-motor rear-wheel drive or dual-motor four-wheel drive.

The factory-sourced model arrived in Fremantle, Western Australia, ostensibly for local assessment but will also go on display at the WA mining expo later in the month.

Scant details about the electric HiLux are available; suffice to say the HiLux Revo concept, as it is called, was revealed late last year in Thailand by then Toyota president, Akio Toyoda.

Adding veracity to the likely appearance of a battery-powered HiLux is a statement from Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing, and franchise operations, Sean Hanley, who said previously that such a model supports Toyota’s push toward carbon neutrality.

“The unveiling of the all-new HiLux Revo BEV concept by our global president Akio Toyoda presents an exciting window into our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality across our vehicle range,” he said.

“This innovative new concept confirms Toyota’s belief in the importance of BEVs and into addressing the specific challenges involved in developing electrified commercial vehicles, considering customer usage requirements.

“Australian motorists understand that widespread adoption of BEVs requires significant development of the supporting infrastructure. They also understand that future vehicles must be practical, affordable, and fit for purpose.

“Toyota’s approach is that BEVs are not the only way forward, which is why we continue to develop multiple options to help our customers on their journey to carbon neutrality, leaving no-one behind.

“Carbon is the enemy, which means that all industries involved in the sourcing of materials, manufacture, use and disposal of vehicles must play their role towards a sustainable future.”

With competitors already in the Australian market – and locally-coverted HiLux models already on offer – it seems Toyota is missing out on a slice of the action.

The fully electric LDV rear-wheel drive dual-cab ute already sold here is priced from $92,990 plus on-road costs. Toyota offers a comparable ICE-powered alternative from as little as $35,545 +ORC and will soon launch a mild-hybrid assisted alternative, based on its higher-specification SR5 and Rogue double-cab variants.

Whether ute buyers would be prepared to consider an electric HiLux is largely an unknown. Outside of mining and commodities industries it seems there is little appetite for battery electric utes, with cost, a lack of charging infrastructure and driving range, and reduced payload and towing capacities often cited by potential buyers.

Assuming Toyota Australia follows typical new-model assessment protocols, the HiLux Revo BEV concept will be tested in a range of local conditions by its engineers after which time data will be thoroughly analysed to assess the model’s suitability for the retail market.

Among other criteria, that means battery range, recharge rate, towing capacity, off-road ability, reliability, comfort, and safety will be on the agenda.