Toyota electrifies the Hilux

With 21 million units sold since 1968, the Hilux is one of the most successful Toyota models ever. Now the pick-up is also getting a hybrid drive for the first time. The 48-volt system is intended to combine efficiency with further improved driving performance and increased driving comfort. In the middle of next year, the electrified Toyota pick-up will be rolling out to European dealers exclusively as a crew cab.

The hybrid system combines the 204 hp (150 kW) 2.8-liter diesel engine with a compact generator via a belt drive. This gives the diesel engine a portion of extra power and improves the drive characteristics. When the connected 48-volt lithium battery is charged, the generator supports the diesel engine with an output of up to 12 kW (16 hp) and an additional torque of 65 Newton meters for propulsion, whether in city traffic or off-road.

The additional generator output of the engine enables smoother acceleration, especially off the asphalt, and regenerative braking supports downhill maneuvering. The Multi-Terrain Select system familiar from the new Land Cruiser now also provides more control in the Hilux for the first time. In addition to the automatic mode, the driver can manually choose between five preconfigured driving programs - dirt, sand, mud, deep snow or stone. The specific modes are calibrated to adapt performance and slip to the conditions with the aim of maximizing traction and manoeuvrability.

The new Hilux Hybrid 48V is also equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology, including an enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS) that can better detect pedestrians at night, cyclists during the day and oncoming vehicles or pedestrians at junctions when turning. An advanced Lane Departure Warning (LDA) system now also recognizes the edge of the road in addition to the lane markings, while Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Road Sign Assist (RSA) enables the driver to quickly adjust the speed to the current limit and automatically slows the vehicle down before freeway bends. When driving at night, Adaptive High Beam (AHB) eliminates the need to switch between LED headlight levels to avoid dazzling other drivers.

The new Smart Connect system with 8-inch screen is also on board the Hilux Hybrid. It offers cloud-based navigation with up-to-date traffic information as well as an interactive voice assistant for hands-free operation of cell phones, multimedia, air conditioning, electric windows and ambient lighting. The driver also has the option of conveniently locking and unlocking the vehicle and controlling the air conditioning via a smartphone app, depending on the trim level. Connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now available wirelessly. (aum)