Toyota’s first electric Hilux ute arrives in NZ

It’s set to be a big month for the dedicated plug-in pick-up. Whilst Toyota hasn’t yet revealed pricing for the model, in its press release it indicated that this will be confirmed at the end of the month. 

May also marks the month of the new-generation Hilux’s local launch, although it has yet to be confirmed if the brand’s new EV toy will be in attendance. 

Toyota New Zealand chief strategic officer Andrew Davis noted the pivotal timing of the model’s arrival; landing in the country as the price of diesel reaches unprecedented heights. 

“Offering both Kiwi businesses and private buyers the choice of a Hilux with zero tailpipe emissions is a crucial step forward in providing consumers the right powertrain for the right application, at the right time,” said Davis.

“This is an exciting time for Toyota; bringing in a fully electrified version of the much-loved Hilux finally gives businesses and fleets the option of low-emission motoring, supported by Toyota’s genuine parts and accessories programme, and our unrivalled servicing network.” 

In lieu of pricing details, Toyota New Zealand has announced which trim levels the Hilux BEV will make it to Kiwi showrooms. 

The model is set to be offered in dual-cab all-wheel drive SR and SR5 spec, with either a cab-chassis body or wellside body. The cab-chassis version could be a tempting one for companies wanting a low-emission workhorse to customise, according to Davis

“Critically, we have been able to secure both the wellside and Cab Chassis variant of the Battery Electric Hilux giving customers the flexibility to customise, as they would any other Hilux powertrain in our range, to suit their needs,” he said. 

“Private buyers looking to make the switch to an electric ute will now have the backing and confidence of Toyota build quality, service options and Toyota Genuine Accessories.”

In its release, Toyota’s local arm cites “infrastructure and construction companies, farmers, horticulturists, trades, eco-tourism operators and local government contractors operating within defined areas” as strong potential use cases for the ute. 

The Hilux BEV comes with a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery with a NEDC-rated range of 315km for the wellside and 245km for the cab-chassis (before you tack on any bits to the rear end). The dual-motor powertrain sends 144kW of power to all four wheels, and it can tow up to 2000kg braked. 

The pure electric ute market had largely been stagnant, exclusive to the Geely Riddara RD6. But, it will soon be a party of three with the Hilux BEV and the MG U9 Electric both set for imminent arrival. This backs up an ongoing surge of options in the plug-in hybrid ute space, which includes the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, Ford Ranger Hybrid and, soon, the JAC T9 Hunter. 

Toyota New Zealand manager of product planning, Sven Tulicic, recently detailed that the brand has lifted its allocation of pure electric vehicles. The comment was specifically referencing the bZ4X and bZ4X Touring, but it could also extend to the Hilux BEV. 

“Customer demand has definitely increased on our EV portfolio and we are obviously answering our customer requirements by increasing volume,” he said.