Toyota conducts trial run for Hilux BEV prototype

MANILA: Toyota is set to conduct trial runs for the first-ever battery electric-powered (BEV) Hilux in Australia. 

In partnership with Australia-based mining company BHP, the Toyota Hilux electric vehicle (EV) test run will be conducted starting this November 2024 and will last for around 12 months. After the trials, the resources and mining company will provide the Japanese carmaker with feedback regarding the prototype’s performance. 

The said version of the popular Toyota-made pickup truck is still a prototype, but for the test, it will be kitted out to fulfill the requirements of BHP. Specifically, the prototype will be used as a day-to-day logistics solution for the said company’s Port Hedland operations in Western Australia. 

To note, the prototype appears identical to the double cab Hilux units usually found running around the rough terrain of the Australian outback. Overall, it features the same design, which was further reinforced with a steel front bumper and a brush guard. It likewise sports several auxiliary lamps and a heavy-duty utility dropside bed. 

“Toyota has long advocated a multi-pathway approach towards decarbonization, and when we do something, we want to do it right,” Toyota Australia President and Chief Executive Officer Matthew Callachor said. 

“Joining with BHP to help further develop this Hilux BEV prototype is an important step in creating low-emission technologies in the light commercial vehicle space, particularly for use in harsh and demanding mining environments,” Callachor added. 

If one remembers, Toyota’s all-electric pickup truck was introduced as the Hilux Revo BEV Concept back in 2022. The aforementioned, however, was a single-cab version based on an internal combustion model variant sold in Thailand. 

As for the double-cab BEV prototype, Toyota Australia has not shared any specs as of the moment, but we can expect more information about the vehicle once a production version officially launches. 

Would you want to see the Toyota Hilux BEV reach the Philippine market in the future? Also, do you think it would do well in local driving situations?

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