Toyota revealed a fully electric version of its best-selling pickup truck for the first time. The new EV pickup will begin rolling out next month, but those in the US may miss out.
When is Toyota launching its first electric pickup?
We had a feeling it was coming soon. Toyota teased the electric pickup truck in a shadowy image last week, saying a “major unveiling” was set for this week.
Although all you could really see were the headlights, it was pretty clear it was a Hilux, Toyota’s best-selling pickup globally.
Toyota unveiled the all-new Hilux on Monday, including its first battery electric variant. Now in its ninth generation, Toyota is taking its “legendary pickup into a new era of electrified power.
As expected, the new Hilux will be available as an EV for the first time, but Toyota still plans to offer hybrid, diesel, and fuel-cell-electric versions.
The electric pickup features a new “Tough and Agile” design with slim new LED headlights linked by a light bar that includes the Toyota logo up front. It stays pretty close to the traditional Hilux grille design but adds new features, such as a rear deck step. It will be available exclusively as a Double Cab.
The interior takes influence from the new Toyota Land Cruiser with dual 12.3″ driver display and central multimedia screens.
All off-road control settings are now grouped and controlled by a single shift-by-wire drive selector. A wireless phone charger and USB ports are available.
Toyota said the new EV pickup is its first to be equipped with electric power steering, which makes it easier to maneuver and reduces kick-back when driving on uneven terrain.
The new Hilux will be available with “a wealth of new and upgraded features,” including Toyota’s T-Mate advanced safety and driving assistance package. Toyota added new functions, including the extension of Toyota Safety Sense, which now includes Low Speed Acceleration Suppression, Proactive Driving Assist, and an Emergency Driving Stop System.
Toyota said the introduction of an electric powertrain is “a breakthrough innovation for Hilux,” providing off-road capabilities with zero emissions.
The electric version has about the same wading depth as the current ICE Hilux at around 700 mm (27.5″). It also features Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system, offering different modes like Mud & Sand, Loose Rock, and Rock & Dirt to improve traction and control based on the off-road surface.
Powered by a 59.2 kWh battery and electric motors at the front and rear, the Hiliux BEV can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,600 kg) with a 1,500 lb (715 kg) max payload.
Toyota’s electric pickup has a WLTP driving range of around 150 miles (240 km). Although it didn’t reveal specifics, Toyota said it has “targeted best-in-class charging capabilities that will minimise vehicle downtime.”
In addition to the battery-electric version, Toyota will continue to offer a 48V hybrid powertrain and a 2.8-liter diesel variant in select markets. Toyota said the ICE variants will primarily be sold in Eastern Europe. Looking ahead, Toyota plans to launch a hydrogen fuel cell electric Hilux in 2028.
The battery electric Hilux will be the first to launch, starting next month (December 2025) in Europe. Toyota didn’t say which other markets it will launch in, but it’s expected to roll out in Australia, Southeast Asia, and other global regions.
Unfortunately, those in the US will miss out. The Hilux is currently not sold in the US, and with the new auto tariffs, it’s even less likely. Ford is now reportedly considering scrapping the F-150 Lightning to focus on gas and hybrids.
What do you think of Toyota’s electric pickup? Would you buy one if it were available? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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