Compared to other automakers, Toyota has been taking its time when conforming to electrification in the industry. The Japanese automaker’s latest step toward the shift is the introduction of a mild-hybrid system for the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner.
The Fortuner and Hilux will reportedly get a mild hybrid system
In a report from South Africa’s CarMag, a senior executive from Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) confirmed that the Hilux and Fortuner will get a mild-hybrid powertrain.
The engine specifications weren’t disclosed. But considering that it is a mild-hybrid, the two Toyota vehicles won’t be able to run on purely battery electric, similar to full hybrid models. This type of hybrid comes with a smaller low-voltage 48V battery only.
Regardless, the new powertrain setup will help the engine deliver more power thanks to electric motor assistance. Fuel efficiency is also expected to be improved as it uses the energy generated during deceleration.
Toyota Hilux
Moreover, the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner mild-hybrid versions will produce fewer tailpipe emissions. The automaker aims to reduce average CO2 emissions by 33 percent by 2030. It is also committed to achieving carbon neutrality over the entire life cycle of its vehicles by 2050.
If Toyota decides to retain the current engines, the 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV turbodiesel (148 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque) and 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV turbodiesel (201 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque) would receive assistance from an electric motor and a battery.
TSAM will reportedly roll out the mild-hybrid versions of the Hilux and Fortuner next year.
Toyota Fortuner
The said vehicles aren’t the only electrified products to emerge soon. During the New Organization Policy press briefing held last month, Toyota will start the production of all-new electric pickup truck models later this year. While no concrete details were shared, the company gave a glimpse of an electrified Toyota pickup through the Hilux Revo BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) concept last December 2022.
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