Toyota Hilux EV testing to begin next month; global debut expected in 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Toyota Motor Thailand introduced the Hilux Revo BEV concept, an all-electric version of its renowned Hilux pickup truck, in 2022. At that time, the Japanese automaker hinted that the Hilux EV would commence production within a year. However, as time passed, no such development materialised. Well, here’s an update regarding the anticipated arrival of the all-electric Toyota Hilux.

Toyota Motor Thailand's president, Noriaki Yamashita has disclosed that the Hilux EV could be ready for launch in the Land of Smiles by the end of 2025. However, Yamashita did not specify whether the vehicle would be produced locally in Thailand or imported.

Yamashita further revealed that approximately a dozen Hilux EV pickup trucks will be put on trial in Pattaya, a popular tourist beach town in Thailand. These trials, scheduled to commence next month, aim to assess the feasibility of using electric vehicles for public transportation.

While Toyota has not yet spilt the beans on the upcoming Hilux EV specification, reports suggest a dual-battery setup with a standard 4WD system. 

Notably, the upcoming Toyota Hilux EV will square up against the Isuzu D-Max EV that recently made its global debut at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show in the form of a concept. The displayed EV was equipped with an AWD dual-motor setup producing a combined output of 177 PS and 325 Nm and a 66.9 kWh battery pack. The range figures are yet to be revealed.

The battery-electric D-Max pick-up is slated to hit European markets in 2025 before heading to Thailand, Australia, and other markets.

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