The hybrid Hilux has finally arrived! Sort of…
A former World Rally Championship winner got behind the wheel of the bakkie as the automaker looks to introduce it to the African market.
Toyota conducted a successful demo run of the Hilux MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) concept model at Kasarani during the seventh round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) in Kenya.
Looking for your next new or used Hilux? Find it here with CARmag.
The Hilux MHEV concept was driven by Juha Kankkunen, a four-time WRC champion and former Toyota world title winner from Finland, with co-driver Jimmi Gathu, a renowned local Kenyan media personality and actor.
Related: A rebirth of the legendary Stout may be Toyota’s ‘Baby Hilux’
The demo run showcased Toyota’s efforts to provide vehicle options for carbon neutrality and expand its offerings in Africa, where the Hilux is highly popular. Amb Dennis Awori, country delegate of CFAO Group in Kenya and chairman of CFAO Kenya Toyota Tsusho Group, emphasised the importance of introducing vehicles like the Hilux MHEV to the African market.
Coincidentally, Toyota’s Australia branch has announced its plans to introduce 48-Volt Technology to selected Hilux models in Australia by the first half of 2024.
The integration of this technology aims to enhance fuel efficiency by approximately 10% compared to the current 2.8-litre turbo diesel variants.
“We are continually striving to reduce the fuel consumption of our vehicles to help reduce ongoing costs for customers, as well as helping reduce our environmental impact, and the addition of 48-Volt Technology to our biggest-selling vehicle line will contribute to this,” says Toyota Australia’s vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations Sean Hanley.
The 48-Volt Technology will be combined with the existing 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission. It involves the addition of a 48-Volt battery, a small electric motor generator, and other components. Apart from improved fuel economy, this technology will enable a stop/start system, enhance driveability, and reduce noise, vibration, and harshness levels.
The integration of 48-Volt Technology is expected to not only improve fuel consumption but also enhance Hilux’s on-road and off-road performance. This upgrade will make the Hilux more appealing to customers planning weekend getaways or extended excursions into the furthest reaches of the Australian outback.
Related: The all-new Toyota Tacoma may be a preview of the next-gen Hilux
Standard 48-Volt Technology will be available on all 4×4 SR5 and Rogue Double Cab models, while it will be optional for the 4×4 SR Double Cab. Importantly, the inclusion of this technology will not affect the Hilux’s towing capacity, with the 4×4 models retaining their impressive 3 500kg braked towing capability.
Further details regarding the hybrid Hilux model will be provided closer to the launch in 2024.
Browse over 26 000 new or used cars here with CARmag.
The post The hybrid Hilux has finally arrived! Sort of… appeared first on CAR Magazine.
