The first all-electric battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the history of Toyota will be introduced in Australia early 2026, and it is a significant step to electrify the iconic Toyota ute. Initial reports and specifications, however, indicate that though the HiLux BEV offers impressive off-road performance and reasonable payload, it will have a comparatively small electric driving range of about 240 km WLTP, which will make it one of the shortest-range electric utes, by comparison, in Australia.
Most Important Specifications and Features
– Battery: 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery that is engineered to fit into the conventional ladder frame chassis.
– Motors: Two electric motors on both front and rear axis that offer permanent all-wheel drive.
– Power and Torque: Cut over front motor 205 Nm, rear motor 268.6 Nm, combined power about 143 kW.
– Performance: 0-100 km/h in about 9 seconds; maximum speed is 140km/h
– Payload and Towing: Payload 715 kg; towing greatly smaller at around 1600 kg than diesel variants
– Off-road: Wading is the same as diesel models at 700 mm; the ground clearance and approach/departure angles are retained.
– Charging: It is estimated that the top speed of rapid charging is 150 kW DC fast charge in order to achieve rapid turnover.
– Weight: Kerb weight 2420kg (approximately 200kg heavier than diesel versions).
Focus and Usage and Positioning in the Market
– Toyota will focus on the HiLux BEV among fleet and mining operators whose operations are short-distance and mostly urban and semi-remote environment where zero emission and low running costs outweigh the advantages.
– It has a low towing capability and limited range, and is less efficient at the long-haul and heavy-duty rural use that conventional diesel HiLux models have.
– HiLux BEV will be positioned as a tough, dependable, and eco-friendly option that could be offered to customers with specific needs instead of a commercial contender in the mass-market with a personal vehicle.
2026 Toyota HiLux BEV Quick Specs Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery | 59.2 kWh lithium-ion |
| Motors | Dual electric motors (AWD) |
| Power | Approx. 143 kW |
| Torque | Front: 205 Nm, Rear: 268.6 Nm |
| Range (WLTP) | Approx. 240 km |
| 0-100 km/h | 9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h |
| Payload | Approx. 715 kg |
| Towing Capacity | Approx. 1,600 kg |
| Wading Depth | 700 mm |
FAQs
Q1: The Toyota HiLux BEV is expected to have a range of electric 2026. What is this expected range?
It is about 240 km WLTP and this fact makes it one of the smallest-range Electric utes in Australia.
Q2: Does the BEV qualify as heavy duty or long drive vehicle?
No, it is majorly designed as an urban and short-haul fleet and mining use.
Q3: What are the off-road capabilities that the HiLux electric still has?
It has the same wading depth, ground clearance and off-road angles as the diesel model.
