The new Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V: uncompromised capabilities from the perfect business partner

Oct 16, 2024

Over more than half a century, the Toyota Hilux has established a worldwide reputation for exceptional strength and durability, faithfully serving its customers in the world’s most challenging environments. During that time, it has also constantly evolved to become a genuine dual-use vehicle: it has retained all the toughness and reliability required for serious work duties while offering the comfort, refinement, on-road poise and safety for day-to-day and leisure driving.

Now this evolution enters a new phase with the introduction of the model’s first electrified powertrain, the Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V.

The 48V mild hybrid system strengthens the Hilux’s proposition as an ideal partner for business/commercial users, delivering multiple benefits. Performance is smoother and more refined, with less noise and vibration, whether driving on standard roads or tackling tougher terrain. Critically, this is achieved without compromising the pick-up’s off-road prowess – notably there is no impact on its deep water (700 mm) wading or its load-carrying capabilities.

The Hilux Hybrid 48V is launched in Double Cab format, with powerful styling that includes a three-dimensional grille and front bumper that emphasises its rugged strength.

New 48V hybrid technology

The 48V hybrid system uses Hilux’s well-proven 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, equipped with a new electric motor-generator, a 48V lithium-ion battery and a DC-DC converter. The parts are designed for simple integration, avoiding the need for complex adjustments to the powertrain layout.

These new system components are built to withstand the kind of harsh operating conditions the Hilux is likely to encounter. For instance, the new electric motor-generator is positioned high enough to maintain the vehicle’s 700 mm wading capability.

The engine drives the electric motor-generator (a permanent magnet synchronous unit), which in turn charges the hybrid battery. When charged, the hybrid battery can supply up to an additional 12 kW of power and 65 Nm of torque to the powertrain under acceleration.

A two-arm tensioner provides the belt tension required by the electric motor-generator. This has been designed for use in diesel commercial vehicles and to withstand the demands of rough-road driving. It also helps secure improved acceleration response and a noise and vibration performance that is on par with gasoline-engine passenger vehicles. Strengthening and anti-slip measures include a high-strength fabric layer on the ribbed side of the belt. This reduces noise and helps maintain consistent performance in challenging conditions, for example when driving through deep water.

The 48V lithium-ion hybrid battery has 13 cells and a 4.3Ah capacity. Weighing just 7.6 kg, it is also sufficiently compact to be housed beneath the vehicle’s rear seats, with minimal impact on cabin space. Both the hybrid battery and the low-profile DC-DC converter are protected against water ingress.

The engine, a DOHC 16-valve unit, generates a maximum 204 DIN hp (150 kW) at 3,400 rpm and a muscular 500 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. It features common rail fuel injection, a variable nozzle turbocharger and a water-cooled intercooler. Exhaust emission control features include a particulate filter, Selective Catalytic Reduction and additional urea injection. In common with other Hilux models, the Hybrid 48V is compatible with HVO100 diesel, a non-fossil fuel made from 100% renewable sources.

Regenerative braking and smooth, quiet stop-and-start system

The Hilux Hybrid 48V system’s electric motor-generator delivers benefits in both on and off-road driveability. It provides a regenerative braking function, recovering energy produced when the driver comes off the throttle. Combined with engine braking, this saves fuel and makes driving easier. On the road, acceleration when starting off and deceleration are smoother and more natural-feeling, contributing to a more composed and comfortable ride. When covering rougher, off-road surfaces, the motor generator enhances the Hilux’s ability to overcome obstacles. This is further helped by a 20% reduction in the engine’s idling speed, from 720 rpm to 600 rpm.

The power assistance provided by the electric motor-generator also reduces the engine load in low-efficiency running, contributing to improved fuel consumption and emissions performance.

The motor-generator’s operating status is indicated in the driver’s multi-information display with a read-out showing CHG (energy regeneration), ECO (providing assist) and PWR (providing assist).

The stop-start system delivers a more comfortable drive in traffic, thanks to quicker throttle response from standstill and quieter engine restart. The electric motor-generator operates in place of a conventional starter motor and is always connected. Thus, it provides faster, smooth response with minimal shock.

New Multi-Terrain Select (MTS)

The Hilux Hybrid 48V is the first Hilux to feature Multi-Terrain Select. This adjusts the drive control systems – drive force, suspension and brake pressure – to enhance traction, manoeuvrability and stability in different driving conditions.

There are six settings: Sand, Mud, Rock, Dirt, Snow and Auto. In Auto mode, sensors around the vehicle assess the road conditions and apply the appropriate control settings. Sand, Mud, Rock and Auto can be engaged when the Hilux is in (low) L4 running; Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Auto can be used in H4. The new multi-information display features a different background for each mode.

A strong, stable ride

The new Hilux Hybrid 48V has plenty of street presence, measuring 5,325 mm long, 1,855 mm/1,900 mm wide and 1,865 mm high. It’s a practical pick-up, the double cab format matched to a 1,555 mm long bed. The mild hybrid system in no way diminishes the load-carrying capability: payload is up to 1,000 kg and towing capacity is 3,500 kg.

Like its conventionally powered sister models, it has a body-on-frame architecture and ladder frame chassis which are key to its strength, durability and torsional rigidity. The rear suspension’s hard-wearing leaf springs and twin shock absorbers provide sure-footed off-road performance expected of and SUV-like on-road comfort and handling. It’s “go-anywhere” credentials are support by a running ground clearance of 310 mm and approach and departure angles at 29 and 26 degrees respectively.

Advanced safety provisions

The Hilux Hybrid 48V is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense technology to provide occupants and other road users with world-class protection from many common accident risks.

An enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS) can better detect pedestrians at night, bicyclists during daytime, and oncoming vehicles or pedestrians at intersections when making turns. When such hazards are detected, the system issues audible and visual alerts before applying braking force if required.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Road Sign Assist (RSA) allows the driver to quickly adjust the speed in line with changes in the limit. The ACC can also automatically slow the vehicle to ensure an appropriate speed through highway bends.

When driving at night, the Automatic High Beam (AHB) function eliminates the need to switch headlight levels to avoid dazzling other drivers. It detects approaching vehicles and instantly and precisely adjusts the lights, so high beam use is maximised.

Multimedia and connectivity

The high equipment specification includes the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system and a nine-speaker JBL premium audio package.

Toyota Smart Connect gives the driver access to cloud-based navigation with efficient journey planning helped by up-to-the-minute traffic intelligence. The system also includes a voice agent for hands-free operation of mobile phone calls and audio functions. Smartphone integration is provided, via both Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired).

Further convenience is provided by the MyToyota smartphone app. This can be used to operate certain vehicle functions remotely – door locking/unlocking and use of the air conditioning system to warm or cool the cabin ahead of a journey. The app also provides vehicle data and can be used for servicing scheduling and reminders.