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Toyota takes the mild-hybrid Hilux GR-S MHEV rallying

The mild-hybrid pickup stretches its legs at one of the world’s toughest rallies.

Jerome Tresvalles on Jul 03, 2023

Toyota has confirmed that a mild-hybrid Hilux is in the works and will be coming out soon. The pickup truck will be outfitted with a 48-volt battery and a compact electric motor generator, and it is anticipated to be available for purchase across the globe. Toyota Africa meanwhile, has decided that the best way to show that the Hilux hybrid is still the as before is by taking it out rallying. However, the rally stage they chose was not just some patch of dirt road, Toyota brought the Hilux to the Safari Rally Kenya, and behind the wheel was four-time WRC champion Juha Kankkunen.

The Hilux used in the demo run was a GR Sport model outfitted with chunky off-road tires and blacked-out wheels. The concept truck would not look out of place in a lineup of normal Hilux pickups aside from the words “hybrid” boldly emblazoned on the side and the aforementioned upgrades.

Related: Toyota introduces GR86 Trueno Edition—standard with performance enhancements

The rally outing proved to be a success, receiving an enthusiastic endorsement from Kankkunen. He confidently states, "I am completely convinced that this car model will be a perfect fit for Africa, given the long-distance drives and the challenges associated with charging electric vehicles. By utilizing hybrid technology, fuel consumption can be reduced, resulting in decreased CO2 emissions. Africa presents a promising market for such vehicles, as hybrid cars offer a pathway towards a future with reduced CO2 emissions."

Regarding the specifications of the upcoming Hilux MHEV for us normal people, Toyota has not yet disclosed any official numbers. However, the company has confirmed its intention to combine the mild-hybrid system with the well-known 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine. Toyota says that this configuration will result in reduced levels of NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) experienced within the cabin, accompanied by an estimated 10 percent improvement in fuel consumption.

The MHEV Hilux is expected to make its debut in Australia during the first half of 2024 although global sales are expected, confirmation regarding its availability in the Philippine market is still pending. In addition to the Hilux hybrid, Toyota says they will also be introducing the 48-volt system to the Fortuner SUV.

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