The Hilux BEV arrives as Toyota’s first fully electric pickup and body-on-frame EV. Is it worth the price?
Toyota launches the Hilux BEV, its first electric pickup
With over 27 million models sold over the past seven decades, the Hilux is not only Toyota’s most popular pickup but also one of the best-selling pickups in the world.
For its ninth generation, Toyota finally introduced an all-electric version. During its global debut last November, Toyota said the Hilux BEV takes the “legendary pickup into a new era of electrified power.”
The electric Hilux is Toyota’s first electric pickup and first body-on-frame EV. As such, the Hilux BEV takes the “legendary” pickup to a whole new level.
As you can see, the electric version adopts a new look, which Toyota calls “Tough and Agile. The new design features slim LED headlights linked by a light bar. It also now includes the Toyota name up front, rather than the logo.
It features a Double Cab body style and a permanent all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. The dual motor setup delivers a combined 278 hp (208 kW) and 348 lb-ft (473 Nm) of torque, enabling it to tow over 3,700 lbs (1,700 kg).
The eAxles are reinforced and use special undercovers for off-roading. Speaking of off-roading, the electric Hilux is Toyota’s first EV equipped with Multi-Terrain Select (MTS).
The electronic control system features five drive modes that the vehicle automatically alternates between to optimize performance and control based on the terrain and driving conditions.
With a wading depth of 700 mm (27″), the EV version is on par with the other Hilux models, but it has a lower ground clearance of 212 mm due to the battery located under the floor.
Toyota’s electric pickup is powered by a 59.2 kWh water-cooled lithium-ion battery with 80 cells, arranged in five 16-cell modules.
The Hilux BEV offers a WLTP driving range of up to 160 miles (257 km). On the city cycle, Toyota said the electric pickup gets up to 236 miles (380 km).
With a DC fast-charging capacity of 125 kW, the electric pickup can recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
Inside, the cabin features Toyota’s latest interior setup, similar to the new Land Cruiser. The setup includes a 12.3″ central infotainment, plus another 12.3″ driver display with four layouts: casual, smart, tough, or sporty.
The Hilux BEV comes with Toyota’s third-gen T-Mate, which includes safety and ADAS features such as blind-spot monitor, safe exit assist, and parking support brake. Thanks to its electric power steering, it also features lane assist for the first time.
In the UK, the Toyota Hilux BEV is available to order from £42,170 ($56,500), not including VAT. Last month, Toyota’s electric pickup went on sale in Australia, starting at AUD 74,990 ($51,500) without on-road costs. In New Zealand, it starts at NZD 81,990 ($47,700).
Toyota is now launching the Hilux BEV across Europe. In France, the Hilux BEV is listed starting at €57,438 ($66,500), excluding VAT. We will keep you updated as orders open in more countries.
Electrek’s Take
With a driving range of just 160 miles, 278 hp, and a max towing capacity of 3,700 lbs, Toyota’s electric pickup would have a tough time competing in the US against the Tesla Cybertruck, Chevy Silverado EV, Rivian R1T, and others.
In Europe, the UK, and other global markets, it still serves a purpose. For one, there are only a few fully electric pickups on sale. Plus, the Hilux BEV is still functional as an everyday driver. 160 miles is enough for an average commute, plus if you’re not towing extreme loads, 3,700 lbs is plenty.
Will Toyota bring the electric pickup to the US? There’s no chance. For one, Toyota doesn’t even sell the current gas-powered Hilux in the US. Now, the Trump Administration’s import tariffs make it even more expensive.
Toyota does, however, have three new electric SUVs on sale in the US, with the three-row Highlander BEV joining as a fourth later this year.
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