Toyota unveils 600km range hydrogen electric Hilux pickup

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【Summary】Toyota has unveiled its first prototype of a hydrogen-powered Hilux pick-up truck. The vehicle, which features three high-pressure hydrogen fuel tanks and a rear-mounted hybrid battery, has a range of over 600km and produces zero tailpipe emissions. Toyota plans to build 10 models by the end of this year and subject them to evaluation before potentially greenlighting production in the second half of the decade. This development is part of Toyota's multi-path strategy for carbon-free mobility.

FutureCar Staff Sep 06, 2023 11:20 PM PT

Toyota unveils 600km range hydrogen electric Hilux pickup

Toyota has revealed its first prototype of a hydrogen-powered version of the popular Hilux pick-up, shedding light on its mechanics and future. The low-emission pick-up, led by Toyota UK, made its debut at the Toyota Manufacturing plant in Derby, England. While it may appear similar to a regular Hilux on the outside, it is equipped with three high-pressure hydrogen fuel tanks and a rear-mounted hybrid battery.

The core elements of the hydrogen Hilux are derived from Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell Mirai sedan, resulting in zero tailpipe emissions. With a range of over 600km, the hydrogen Hilux surpasses the capabilities of a battery electric system. Despite the added technology, the interior space of the vehicle remains uncompromised, although the rear tray now houses the battery.

This unveiling serves as a demonstration of Toyota's multi-path strategy for achieving carbon-free mobility. The brand aims to apply different powertrain solutions to suit various user needs and operating environments worldwide. The hydrogen Hilux prototype construction began in June of this year and will undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety, performance, functionality, and durability meet production standards.

However, Toyota states that the hydrogen Hilux models planned for production this year will undergo a complete evaluation in consultation with the global strategic engineering and environmental group, Ricardo. If successful, the model could be approved for production in the second half of this decade.

In addition to the hydrogen-powered Hilux, Toyota has confirmed the release of a hybrid version of the Hilux in New Zealand in early 2024. This will be the first hybrid ute in the country, following the LDV eT60 as the only other electrified ute. Toyota also unveiled a fully electric Hilux concept, known as the Revo BEV Concept, which is currently being evaluated in Australia.