Toyota Hilux BEV heads to New Zealand

Toyota’s first-ever battery electric Hilux will be available for New Zealand customers to pre-order towards the end of May, marking a significant milestone for the Japanese brand’s electrification strategy.

The Hilux battery electric vehicle (BEV) joins the newly launched ninth-generation Hilux range and has been designed to reduce tailpipe emissions for fleets and private buyers while retaining Toyota’s signature quality and reliability.

Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis says the arrival of the Hilux BEV represents a crucial addition to Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to electrification.

“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,” Davis says.

The electric ute will be available exclusively as a double-cab with either cab chassis or wellside variants, featuring dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) in mid-spec SR or premium SR5 trim levels.

Fleet focus and practical applications

Davis says the Hilux BEV would be ideal for everyday operational roles and predictable routes, particularly where charging is easily accessible and daily travel distances are less than 200km.

“From patrolling airport runways, moving equipment around a vineyard or orchard, to regional highway inspections, the Hilux BEV would fit seamlessly into many working environments. But don’t underestimate its capability – it certainly holds its own on rugged terrain too,” he says.

The zero-emissions ute would suit infrastructure and construction companies, farmers, horticulturists, trades, eco-tourism operators and local government contractors operating within defined areas where charging would take place back at base. The lack of emissions and minimal noise presents advantages for working with livestock or in orchards.

Davis says the Hilux BEV gives organisations more options to match the right powertrain to the right role, with diesel remaining essential for heavy-duty tasks such as high payload carrying and towing, while the BEV suits roles with different demands.

Technical specifications and capability

The Hilux BEV features a newly developed 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery paired with a dual-motor AWD system producing combined system output of 144kW. Torque distribution is variably controlled between front and rear axles during on-road driving to provide high-traction full-time AWD. Driving range for the cab chassis variant is rated at 245km on the NEDC cycle, while wellside variants achieve 315km. A Hilux BEV fitted with a Toyota Genuine Accessories towbar can tow a maximum 2000kg braked and 750kg unbraked.

For off-road use, Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select traction control system offers six different drive modes to suit conditions, adjusting wheel slip to maintain traction in low-grip situations. The electric Hilux maintains the same 700mm wading depth as the standard model.

The 59.2kWh battery offers DC charging capability that can replenish from 10 to 80% 30 minutes at speeds of up to 150kW. The 10kW three-phase AC charging capacity can take the battery from 10 to 100% charge in approximately 5.5 hours.

Extensive testing programme

To ensure the Hilux BEV can tackle New Zealand environments familiar to its diesel and diesel hybrid siblings, Toyota conducted comprehensive testing in collaboration with leading Australian mining fleets. These vehicles were trialled extensively in real-world, high-demand environments from hot temperature remote outback operations to off-road terrains.

Since arriving in New Zealand, the Hilux BEV has been tested against its diesel cousin in challenging off-road situations, according to Toyota.

The electric Hilux features a uniquely developed suspension system with frame reinforcements, upgraded MacPherson strut front suspension and a De-dion rear leaf spring setup that accommodates the rear electric motor while retaining the live axle configuration.

Hilux BEV grades feature similar specification levels to their diesel-powered counterparts and are identified externally by a closed-off upper front grille and aerodynamically enhanced 17-inch alloy wheels. A full suite of Toyota Safety Sense active safety features is standard across the range.

Two exterior paint colours will be available – Glacier White and Ash. Both wellside variants feature the A-deck layout with four tie-down hooks, tailgate assist and 275kg-rated side deck step.

Pricing will be announced later this month.