Toyota: PHEV Technology Not Yet Suitable for Heavy-Duty Hilux
The renowned Japanese automotive manufacturer, Toyota, has stated that it will not yet introduce plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology to its flagship pickup, the Hilux.
As reported by CarsCoops on Tuesday (7/7) local time, Toyota assesses that this technology is currently unable to meet the demands of heavy-duty usage, particularly concerning payload capacity and towing capabilities. This statement was made by Toyota Australia management amidst increasing competition within the electrified pickup segment.
Several manufacturers, particularly those from China, have already offered PHEV pickup models, such as the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha, and the Chery Stockman, which is set to launch in several markets soon.
Ray Munday, Senior Manager of Product Planning and Pricing at Toyota Australia, stated that the company continues to study opportunities to introduce a Hilux PHEV. However, Toyota does not wish to rush the launch of a product that is deemed unable to meet the performance standards expected by customers.
Such a configuration could potentially reduce payload capacity as well as the vehicle’s ability to tow heavy loads. “The technology is currently not necessarily able to meet our standards regarding the heavy-duty towing capabilities required by Hilux customers,” said Munday.
He added that consumer expectations for Toyota and the Hilux are very high, so the company must ensure that every new technology is truly ready for use in various operational conditions. Toyota considers work capability to be a vital factor in the pickup segment. Currently, the diesel-powered Hilux is capable of offering a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kilograms and a payload of approximately one tonne.
The company is concerned that a PHEV configuration may not yet be able to match these capabilities in daily use. Therefore, Toyota is temporarily focusing its PHEV technology development on passenger cars and SUVs, while waiting for the technology to mature for light commercial vehicles and pickups.
John Pappas, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations at Toyota Australia, said the company continues to examine various powertrain options, but every technology must be able to meet customer needs before being marketed.
Meanwhile, Toyota has offered the Hilux in diesel, mild-hybrid, and fully electric versions in several markets. The Japanese manufacturer is also preparing a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) variant, which is scheduled to join the Hilux lineup in 2028, as part of a strategy to provide diverse electrification technologies tailored to specific vehicle usage characteristics.