A vehicle that no one thought would go electric just did

“Reduction of emissions” has become a sort of mantra for the automotive industry. Both by conviction and by legal imperative, cars must pollute as little as possible. Even those in which consumption was a weakness, as is the case of open-bed, all-terrain vehicles: the popular pick-ups.

Toyota, one of the brands most committed to the crusade against pollution, has brought electrification to its iconic Hilux, one of the most prominent models in the segment since its launch in 1968. A vehicle that stands out thanks to its load capacity, robustness, reliability and off-road qualities, now also includes the unprecedented addition of 48-volt technology to support its usual diesel engine.

The Hilux’s 2.8-liter micro hybrid system activates a small generator to charge a 48-volt lithium battery located under the rear seats. This energy accumulator serves to power a conventional 12-volt battery, in addition to being capable of providing up to 16 HP at specific times to improve acceleration and efficiency.

The generator motor is designed to withstand the challenging conditions expected of a vehicle of this kind. The battery is charged by recovering energy from the braking system, which would otherwise be wasted. Overall, the performance of the Toyota turbo diesel engine is 204 HP, along with a torque of 50 Nm, a very significant value considering the intended use of a pickup truck.

Less consumption, better performance

Toyota states that this technology, together with the introduction of an engine start-stop system when idle, benefits consumption by 5%, compared to the conventional diesel engine.

In addition, the brand mentions better accelerations, smoother starts and advantages in off-road conditions: constant traction, better downhill control thanks to regenerative braking and optimal performance when wading through water up to 27.5 inches deep.

Other than that, the Hilux 48V maintains the characteristics that make this model one of the most in demand among both professionals and fans of adventure activities. Complete equipment combined with security and multimedia systems at the level that one would expect of a modern car.

Its design also retains its usual power, with a length of 5.32 meters and a height of 1.85 meters. The structure — it could not be any other way — continues to be a body on a load-bearing chassis, an unbeatable combination for a car designed to face the most demanding challenges in 4×4 driving.

Toyota plans to start selling the Hilux 48V in the middle of next year. Its price has not yet been defined.

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