Over more than half a century, the Toyota Hilux has established a global reputation as a pick-up of exceptional strength and durability.
During this time, it has also constantly evolved to become a dual-use vehicle: it has maintained all the robustness and reliability necessary for tough work tasks, while offering comfort, refinement, road balance, and safety for daily and leisure driving.
Now the Hilux enters a new phase with the introduction of the first electrified engine featuring a 48V mild-hybrid system, which utilizes a proven 2.8-liter 16-valve turbodiesel engine that produces 204 hp at 3400 rpm and a torque of 500 Nm between 1600 and 2800 rpm, equipped with a new electric motor-generator, a 48V lithium-ion battery, and a DC-DC converter. The components have been designed for simple integration, avoiding the need for complex adjustments to the powertrain layout.
Moreover, Toyota emphasizes that the new components of the mild-hybrid system have been designed to withstand the type of adverse operating conditions that the Hilux may encounter. For example, the new electric motor-generator is positioned at a height sufficient to maintain a wading capability of 700 mm.
The engine activates the electric motor-generator (a synchronous unit with permanent magnets), which in turn charges the hybrid battery. When fully charged, the hybrid battery can provide an additional 12 kW (20 hp) of power and 65 Nm of torque to the powertrain during acceleration.
The 48V lithium-ion hybrid battery has 13 cells and a capacity of 4.3Ah. Weighing only 7.6 kg, it is also compact enough to be placed under the rear seats of the vehicle, having minimal impact on cabin space. Both the hybrid battery and the low-profile DC-DC converter are protected against water ingress.
The power assistance provided by the electric motor-generator also reduces the load on the engine during low-efficiency operation, helping to improve fuel consumption and emissions performance.
The 48V Hybrid Hilux is the first pickup in the range to feature the Multi-Terrain Select system. This system adjusts the traction control systems—traction force, suspension, and brake pressure—to enhance traction, maneuverability, and stability in various driving conditions.
There are six configurations: Sand, Mud, Rock, Dirt, Snow, and Auto. In Auto mode, the sensors around the vehicle assess the road conditions and apply the appropriate control settings. The Sand, Mud, Rock, and Auto modes can be activated when the Hilux is in (low) speed L4; Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Auto can be used in H4. The new multi-information display features a different background for each mode.
The Hilux Hybrid 48V pickup is launched in a double cab version, in Portugal in the Invincible version. This version stands out from the others with its three-dimensional grille and a front bumper that emphasizes its robust design.
