Toyota has revealed preliminary specifications for the upcoming 2026 HiLux Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), confirming a range of approximately 240 km and a towing capacity of around 1,600 kg. The launch is set for December 2025 in international markets, followed by an early 2026 rollout in Australia.
The new HiLux BEV will feature a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery paired with dual electric motors, producing 205 Nm at the front and 268.6 Nm at the rear. This configuration enables permanent all-wheel drive, enhancing its off-road capabilities. In addition to the electric powertrain, the HiLux will continue to be available in various configurations, including a 48V mild-hybrid diesel and a 2.7-litre petrol engine, which has been discontinued in Australia.
Specifications and Features of the HiLux BEV
Toyota has stated that the HiLux BEV will support a payload of approximately 715 kg. The company aims for best-in-class charging capabilities to minimize downtime. Safety and durability are also priorities; the vehicle’s body-on-frame construction incorporates specific measures to protect the battery from damage and water ingress, matching the wading depth of the existing diesel model.
The HiLux BEV will also feature a Multi-Terrain Select system, allowing drivers to adapt brake and torque control to various terrains, akin to operating in low-range mode in traditional vehicles. This functionality is particularly beneficial for fleet and urban trade users, as noted by Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
Toyota anticipates that fleet sales—currently representing 48 percent of its total sales in Australia—will drive demand for the HiLux BEV. Hanley mentioned that while the vehicle is not designed for heavy use, it offers a “passenger-like payload” and will appeal to specific market segments.
Future Developments and Market Strategy
The 2026 HiLux range will start at AU$33,990 plus on-road costs, with the BEV variant expected to launch between January and March 2026. Additionally, Toyota has confirmed plans for a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) slated for release in Australia by 2028.
Last year, Toyota commenced testing an electric HiLux as part of a twelve-month trial at mining giant BHP‘s operations in Western Australia. This initiative is seen as a precursor to the HiLux BEV’s commercial introduction.
The HiLux BEV represents Toyota’s commitment to a multi-pathway approach to decarbonisation, with a focus on meeting the evolving needs of consumers and businesses. As the automotive industry shifts towards sustainable solutions, the HiLux BEV is poised to play a significant role in this transition. For ongoing updates on the HiLux BEV, stay connected with automotive news sources.
