The Toyota Hilux will soon be offered with a 48V mild hybrid system as confirmed by Toyota Australia. Set to be paired with the Hilux’s 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, the hybrid Hilux will arrive in the first half of 2024.
The obvious improvement that the hybrid system introduces to the famous pickup truck is better fuel economy. According to Toyota Australia, the 48V improves the fuel economy by up to 10% for certain Hilux models.
As for the immediate hybrid Hilux that will debut next year, the 48V mild hybrid powertrain will consist of a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, a 48V, a small electric motor-generator, and a 6-speed automatic transmission. No information has surfaced on the 2.4-litre version of the Hilux.
According to Toyota, the 48V hybrid Hilux will also include enhancements like a stop/start system, improved drivability, and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
Prior to this, Toyota showcased a fully electric concept of the Toyota Hilux called the “Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Concept” in Thailand. The company has also unveiled a fuel cell (FCEV) version of its pickup truck, albeit from its UK division.
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Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley said, “We are continually striving to reduce the fuel consumption of our vehicles to help reduce on-going costs for customers, as well as helping reduce our environmental impact, and the addition of 48-Volt Technology to our biggest-selling vehicle line will contribute to this.”
“This new technology will not only improve fuel consumption, but customers will also benefit from enhanced on and off-road performance, making the Hilux even more appealing for a weekend away or longer-term excursion into the outback.”
For the Australian market, the 48 Volt hybrid system will be fitted as standard to all Hilux 4×4 SR5 and Rogue Double Cab models. It will be available as an option for the 4×4 SR Double cab. Toyota ensures that the addition of the 48 V system will not have any impact on the capability of the 4×4 Hilux models, maintaining their 3,500 kg towing capacity.
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