Last June, we found out that Toyota trademarked the term “Toyota Kinetic Assist” for its 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. Now, the Japanese automaker has explained why it decided to go for a different name instead of using “hybrid.”
The 2024 Toyota Hilux will get the Toyota Kinetic Assist
In a report by Drive, Toyota intends to reserve the “hybrid” moniker for full hybrid models capable of running using an electric motor only in electric-only mode. Since the new 48-volt mild-hybrid tech for the 2024 Toyota Hilux is not capable of doing so, the automaker wants to call it “Toyota Kinetic Assist” instead.
“Most of you have called it a mild hybrid. We don’t, there’s a reason we don’t,” said Toyota Australia sales and marketing boss Sean Hanley told Australian media.
“In the Toyota world, hybrid refers to a system where the engine and the electric motor can both propel the vehicle either together or independently. That’s not the case with the electric motor for the 48-volt system.”
The next-gen Land Cruiser Prado will also use the Toyota Kinetic Assist
Despite the lack of an electric-only propulsion system, the upcoming Hilux with the Toyota Kinetic Assist is promised to deliver improved efficiency. To be more specific, Toyota claims a 10-percent improvement in fuel efficiency. The electric motor should also aid the pickup truck in acceleration, particularly at low RPMs.
The Toyota Kinetic Assist will be paired to the existing 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine, which makes 201 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque on its own. Only the six-speed automatic and 4x4 versions will be getting the mild-hybrid technology.
In addition, the next-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado will also adopt the Toyota Kinetic Assist. Since the Hilux and Fortuner midsize SUV share the same platform, the latter could also go hybrid.
The Toyota Kinetic Assist is arriving early next year
The Toyota Hilux with the Toyota Kinetic Assist is expected to debut in the first half of 2024 in Australia. Upon its arrival, the Land Cruiser and Fortuner should follow suit shortly.
See the latest car technologies at Philkotse.com.
Know more about Toyota Hilux 2024
The Toyota Hilux 2024 is a midsize pickup offered in the local market as both fleet and regular units. Toyota Hilux Prices Philippines range from PHP 879,000 to PHP 2,166,000 with 13 variants, spanning from the basic cab & chassis 4x2 model to the range-topping GR Sport 4x4. It is also available in two turbodiesel engine options and four gearbox choices, accompanied by eight exterior colors. Dimensions start at 5,285mm in height, 1,800mm in width, and 1,700mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,085mm. Among the rivals to the Toyota Hilux in the market are the Mitsubishi Strada, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, and the Isuzu D-Max.
This popular pickup continues to evolve and slowly move upmarket after gaining luxuries. The most significant revolutionary jump of the Hilux happened in 2004 when the seventh generation of the model was introduced. It was the first 21st-century iteration of Toyota's pickup. It is also the first generation to ride on Toyota’s new Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle architecture. It provided improved safety, better ride comfort, modern D-4D diesel engines, more interior space, and a more modern aerodynamic body.
The current 8th generation offers a more refined and stylish design than its predecessor, but the tradition of being a tough pickup continues. It received a much-awaited refresh in 2020.
₱ 879,000 - ₱ 2,166,000
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