Toyota’s new Hilux Hybrid 48V introduces electrification to the legendary pick-up range for the first time to deliver greater efficiency, improved driving performance and enhanced comfort in both urban and off-road environments.
The invincible Hilux has become renowned for its Quality, Durability and Reliability (QDR) since its launch in Japan in 1968, becoming one of Toyota’s most recognisable workhorse vehicles and an iconic dual use vehicle, at home, around town and in its element on the world’s toughest terrains.
By adding a hybrid 48V system, Toyota strengthens its inclusive multi-technology pathway approach to carbon neutrality. Toyota believes that all customers need a variety of affordable and practical options, including for commercial and off-road vehicles.
Featuring the familiar iconic Hilux look and available exclusively in Double Cab format, the Hilux Hybrid 48V makes a forceful impression with its bold three-dimensional grille and front bumper, emphasising the pick-up’s strong, rugged stance.
Inside the new Hilux Hybrid 48V, a comfortable spacious interior features an extensive equipment list, including a modern infotainment system and the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology.
NEW 48V TECHNOLOGY
The powerful 2.8 litre Hilux diesel engine has been strengthened by the addition of a hybrid 48V system specifically designed for the unique demands of Toyota’s dual use pick-up.
The engine drives a compact motor generator using a belt system, which in turn charges the new 48V lithium battery, which is small enough to be installed under the rear seats to minimise impact on cabin space, and weighs just 7.6 kg. This 48V battery also supplies the vehicle’s 12V system through a new DC/DC converter.
Like Toyota’s full hybrid electric systems, the new battery is charged during deceleration, efficiently regenerating braking energy which would otherwise be lost, whilst also adding additional braking performance. Once charged, the battery sends up to 16 DIN hp (12 kW) of power and 65 Nm of torque through the motor generator to the engine to enhance acceleration, power and efficiency.
The robust motor generator is compact and has been designed to withstand the harsher working environments experienced by commercial vehicles, while the engine has been modified to adapt to the hybrid system. A new two-arm belt tensioner and stronger belt material contribute to the improved drivability and a quieter ride, whilst retaining Hilux’s famous durability.
Combining with the motor generator is the powerful and proven Euro 6d-compliant, DOHC, 16 valve, 2.8-litre diesel engine which generates 204 DIN hp (150 kW) at 3,400 rpm and 500 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm.
It is equipped with a common rail fuel injection system, a variable nozzle turbocharger and a water-cooled intercooler. Exhaust emissions control measures include a Diesel Oxidisation Catalyst, a Diesel Particulate Filter, Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Urea Additional Injection.
In common with existing Hilux, Land Cruiser and PROACE family of vehicles, the Hilux Hybrid 48V is compatible with HVO100 diesel, a non-fossil fuel made from 100% renewable sources.
RESPONSIVE, EFFICIENT AND QUIETER PERFORMANCE
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V combines responsive acceleration, improved braking performance and greater fuel efficiency with a smoother ride whether on the road or tackling tough terrain.
In an urban environment, the additional power of the hybrid 48V system delivers better throttle response and linear acceleration, particularly from a standstill, while regenerative braking creates a more effective and natural deceleration feel.
An enhanced stop-start system allows the engine to remain off for longer periods which, coupled with the benefits of the hybrid 48V system, improves fuel efficiency by up to 5% compared to the conventional non-electrified diesel powertrain.
As well as those efficiency benefits, the improved stop-start system delivers a more comfortable drive in traffic, thanks to quicker throttle response from standstill and a quieter engine restart, achieved because the motor generator is constantly connected to the engine and, unlike conventional systems, does not use the starter motor. That also enables the engine to restart at a higher speed.
Driving performance improvements are not confined to an urban environment and the Hilux Hybrid 48V, in common with its illustrious heritage, naturally excels off road.
Motor generator power allows for smoother acceleration when negotiating rough terrain too and regenerative braking supports safer downhill manoeuvring, while the engine’s idling speed is reduced from 720 rpm to 600 rpm which increases a driver’s ability to easily control the vehicle.
For the first time on a Hilux, the new Multi-terrain Select system provides even better performance and control by giving the driver the option to adjust vehicle stability control settings according to the specific driving conditions. This can be set to an automatic setting, or the driver can choose one of five pre-set options – Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow or Rock – calibrated to regulate power and wheelspin to enhance traction and manoeuvrability.
Special attention has been paid to ensuring the Hilux Hybrid 48V possesses formidable water-crossing capabilities. The Hilux Hybrid 48V can drive through water up to 700 mm deep thanks to waterproofing of the 48V battery and DC-DC converter while new anti-slip and strengthening measures on the motor generator pulley and belt ensure optimum performance, even when wet.
A STRONG AND STABLE RIDE
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V stands proud at 5,325 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and 1,815 mm high, while it offers practicality as well as rugged style thanks to a load bed length of 1,525 mm. Hybrid efficiency and driving performance enhancements come with no compromise on towing and payload capacity, which remain exceptional at 3,500 kg and 1,000 kg respectively.
Like its Hilux stablemates, the Hilux Hybrid 48V, with its body-on-frame architecture and ladder-frame chassis, delivers outstanding durability and torsional rigidity. Tough, durable leaf spring and twin shock absorber rear suspension system combine the off-road capabilities expected of a rugged four-wheel drive workhorse with SUV-like ride comfort and handling. Reinforcing its go-anywhere credentials, the Hilux Hybrid 48V boasts class-leading minimum running ground clearance of 310 mm on Double Cabs, and approach and departure angles of 29 and 26 degrees respectively.
UP-TO-DATE SAFETY AND MULTIMEDIA EQUIPMENT
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V features the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology to provide drivers and other road users with world-class protection from a variety of potential hazards.
An enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS) can better detect pedestrians at night, bicyclists during daytime, and oncoming vehicles or pedestrians at intersections when making turns. When such hazards are detected, the system issues audible and visual alerts before applying braking force if required.
An updated Lane Departure Alert (LDA) now detects the roadside in addition to painted lines, while Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Road Sign Assist (RSA) allows the driver to quickly adjust the speed based on the current limit, and also slows the vehicle automatically before highway bends.
When driving at night, the Adaptive High Beam (AHB) function eliminates the need to switch headlight levels to avoid dazzling other drivers. It detects approaching vehicles and precisely adjusts the LED lights, dimming lamps to shield other road users and allowing the driver to use uninterrupted high beam for maximum visibility.
Inside the cabin, the latest Toyota Smart Connect system, complete with 8-inch screen, features cloud-based navigation with latest traffic information and interactive voice agent for hands-free operation of mobile phone calls, multimedia, air conditioning, electric windows and ambient lighting. Drivers also have the possibility to conveniently lock or unlock the vehicle and control the air conditioning via a smartphone app, depending on the grade. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are now available wirelessly.
AN AWARD-WINNING HERITAGE
Today, the Toyota Hilux is produced in six different countries and is on sale in more than 180 countries and regions around the world since 1968 with 21 million units sold globally.
In more than half a century of excellence, the Hilux has proved its invincibility time and again, having conquered the extremes of the North Pole, Icelandic volcanoes and the Antarctic.
Recently it has made its mark on the world of motorsport, earning three wins in the gruelling Dakar Rally in 2019, 2022 and 2023, as well as twice winning the FIA World Rally Raid Championship.
It is also the most recent winner of the prestigious 2022 International Pick-up Award (IPUA) for medium-sized pick-up trucks. The IPUA jury recognised the Hilux for its dynamic powertrain, fine handling and legendary Quality, Durability and Reliability, in addition to its ever-increasing appeal in the world’s growing dual-usage, leisure and urban markets.
In 2024, the Hilux range is part of a reinvigorated and expanded Toyota Professional line-up of commercial vehicles, alongside the expanded PROACE family of vehicles consisting of the all-new PROACE MAX and updated PROACE and PROACE CITY as part of a powerful commercial vehicle product portfolio.
The expanded Toyota Professional line-up represents a renewed commitment to commercial vehicles and Toyota aims to increase sales volumes in this sector, which amounted to 119,000 vehicles in 2022, and are on track to set new sales records this year.
Toyota intends to achieve this via a comprehensive vehicle line-up allied to a strong focus on customer satisfaction, which includes competitive finance and insurance, warranties and roadside assistance for peace of mind as well as courtesy vehicles to keep customers on the road and at work.
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V will be arriving at retailers across Europe in mid-2024.
Note: All performance data of the New Hilux Hybrid 48V is subject to homologation. Final specifications will be confirmed at the full product launch.
