Toyota HiLux BEV on sale in May, priced from $74,990

Here’s one way to avoid the rising cost of fuel: Toyota’s first battery-electric HiLux, the HiLux BEV, will hit Australian showrooms in May, priced from $74,990 plus on-road costs. 

Available exclusively in double-cab body style, the range starts with the SR cab-chassis and SR pick-up from $76,490, while the flagship SR5 pick-up is priced at $82,990. Both feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system powered by a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery. The front motor delivers 82kW/206Nm, the rear 129kW/269Nm, giving a combined 144kW/468Nm. Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select traction system offers six drive modes for off-road conditions.

Toyota says it has undergone extensive real-world testing in harsh Australian conditions, including remote outback operations and off-road environments, ensuring it can handle the same demanding work as its diesel counterpart.

Battery charging includes 150kW DC fast charging (10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes) and 10kW AC charging (10 to 100 per cent in 6.5 hours). Driving range is 315km for pick-up grades and 245km for the cab-chassis. The HiLux BEV features reinforced suspension, ventilated disc brakes with regenerative braking, and a 2000kg braked towing capacity. Exterior updates include a closed-off grille and 17-inch aero wheels.

“Offering both Australian 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 John Pappas, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations.

“This is an exciting time for Toyota; bringing in an electric version of the much-loved HiLux pick-up finally gives businesses and fleets the option of low-emission motoring mixed with Toyota’s extensive parts and servicing network.

“In fact, Toyota has already been testing the HiLux BEV for months on mine sites in temperatures nearing 50°C, ensuring the performance of this new powertrain matches the tried-and-tested HiLux diesel. Private buyers looking to make the switch to an electric pick-up now have the backing of Toyota quality, durability and reliability.”

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Inside, the HiLux BEV mirrors the practicality and comfort of its diesel siblings. The SR grade offers fabric upholstery, all-weather floor mats, a urethane steering wheel, shift-by-wire gear shifter, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic windows, smart entry and start, and a 1500W inverter in the centre console capable of powering small appliances. 

A 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system pairs with a 12.3-inch multi-information display and four-speaker audio, providing embedded satellite navigation, voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+ digital radio, and USB-C ports in the front and rear.

The SR5 pick-up adds a more premium interior with leather-accented upholstery, heated front seats with powered driver’s adjustment and two-way lumbar support, heated steering wheel, carpeted floor, electrochromatic rearview mirror, soft lidded instrument panel, silver door handles, eight-speaker audio system, and wireless phone charging. Exterior enhancements include high-grade LED headlamps with auto-leveling, auto-retracting and heated mirrors, LED fog lamps and tail-lights, rear privacy glass, and painted hood moulding with a lower radiator grille.

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Safety comes via Toyota Safety Sense, including autonomous emergency braking, radar cruise control, lane trace assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and eight airbags. Toyota Connected Services allows remote vehicle monitoring through the myToyota Connect app.

Private buyers who purchase or lease through a novated arrangement receive a complimentary 7kW AC wallbox charger for home use. The HiLux BEV will be offered in Glacier White, Frosted White and Ash Slate.

HiLux BEV pricing