Toyota is gradually expanding its lineup of electric vehicles, with a prototype of the Hilux Revo BEV pickup unveiled in late 2022. The production of this all-electric workhorse is expected to start by the end of next year in Thailand. While specific technical details were not disclosed in a recent interview, Toyota had previously mentioned a range of around 124 miles for the electric truck. Weight is a concern for Toyota’s engineers, as adding more range would increase the battery weight, potentially affecting the truck’s practicality and loading capacity.
The decision to convert the current-generation Hilux into an electric vehicle indicates that the existing model may continue in production for a few more years. Alternatively, it could mean that the next-generation Hilux will be a heavy refresh, incorporating the work done for the electric derivative. Toyota has also showcased other electric trucks in recent years, including a Tacoma-like pickup and an EPU concept at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. The company also introduced a small IMV-0 concept, which is a modular electric pickup that has already been launched in Thailand with combustion engines.
Introduction
Toyota, known for its focus on hybrids rather than pure electric vehicles, has revealed plans to bring an all-electric version of its popular pickup truck, the Hilux, to the market by the end of 2025. This move marks a significant step for Toyota towards electrification, as the company aims to expand its lineup of zero-emission vehicles. With a focus on the electric truck segment, Toyota is gearing up to compete with other automakers in the growing market for electric pickups.
### The Hilux Revo BEV: Toyota’s Entry into the Electric Truck Market
The announcement of the Hilux Revo BEV represents Toyota’s entry into the electric truck market, with plans to produce the all-electric pickup in Thailand. The decision to focus on Thailand as a manufacturing hub for the electric truck is strategic, considering the high demand for trucks in the Southeast Asian country. Toyota aims to rival other electric pickups, such as the Isuzu D-Max, which is also slated for production in Thailand. While specific technical details have not been revealed, Toyota has hinted at a range of around 124 miles for the Hilux Revo BEV.
### Overcoming Challenges: Balancing Range and Weight
One of the major challenges for Toyota’s engineers is finding a balance between range and weight when designing the Hilux Revo BEV. The company acknowledges that increasing the range of the electric truck would require a heavier battery, potentially impacting the vehicle’s loading capacity. With trucks typically carrying heavy loads, achieving an optimal balance between range and weight is crucial for the success of the Hilux Revo BEV in the market. Toyota’s commitment to addressing these challenges will be essential in ensuring the practicality and performance of the electric pickup.
### Expanding the Electric Truck Lineup: Toyota’s Recent Concepts
In addition to the Hilux Revo BEV, Toyota has showcased other electric truck concepts in recent years, including a Tacoma-like pickup and an EPU concept. The company’s focus on electric trucks highlights its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. With the introduction of the IMV-0 concept, a small modular electric pickup, Toyota continues to explore new possibilities in electric vehicle technology. The IMV-0 concept, which is already available with combustion engines in Thailand, offers an affordable option for consumers looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.
### Future of Electric Trucks: Toyota’s Vision for Electrification
As Toyota expands its lineup of electric vehicles, the introduction of the Hilux Revo BEV and other electric truck concepts signals a broader shift towards electrification in the automotive industry. With Chairman Akio Toyoda’s belief that pure EVs may not dominate the market, Toyota’s strategic approach to introducing electric trucks reflects a balanced perspective on the future of transportation. By combining innovation, sustainability, and practicality, Toyota aims to lead the way in the electric truck segment and contribute to a more sustainable future for mobility.