Toyota is reportedly developing hybrid diesel engines

If reports from Japan are to be believed, you may soon find yourself driving hybrid diesel versions of the Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser Prado. The Japanese outlet, BestCarWeb, has reported that Toyota is currently in active development of diesel-electric powertrains. 

Diesel engines have been on the way out in the west, where fully electric vehicles appear to be the way forward. In other parts of the world, diesel powertrains are still very much in use. This is likely why Toyota is racing to produce hybrid diesel engines for some of its new models. 

The reports out of Japan further point to a 2.5-liter diesel-electric hybrid powering the next-generation Land Cruiser Prado. This engine reportedly could be shared with the new Hilux and Hiace. If a new hybrid diesel engine is coming to the Hilux, then perhaps the Fortuner getting the same powertrain is not out of the question. 

Meanwhile, an earlier report stated that the new Prado has been delayed to 2023, while the next-gen Hilux is slated for a 2024 release. This will give Toyota plenty of time to develop its hybrid diesel powertrains. 

Toyota had been a leader in electric vehicle innovation for several years, but has since fallen behind to competitors that are more aggressive with putting the internal combustion engine to rest. It's also no secret that Toyota has preferred developing hybrid vehicles, with the popular Prius having been sold since 1997. Still, the Japanese automaker is determined not to be left behind, with plans of electrifying up to 15 vehicles in its lineup over the next decade.

In the Philippines, Toyota currently sells the Prius, one of its hybrid vehicles in our market. The hatchback is powered by a 1.8-liter Hybrid Synergy Drive engine, producing 72 hp and 142 Nm of torque. Its hybrid gasoline engine pairs with an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Prius boasts a futuristic cabin and advanced tech and safety features. The Toyota Prius is available from P2,339,000.