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Toyota unveils the ninth-gen Hilux with electric and hydrogen power

© global.toyota
World premiere in Thailand: ninth-gen Toyota Hilux adds electric and hydrogen alongside diesel. Asia sales start 2026; hydrogen reaches Europe by 2028.
Michael Powers, Editor

Thailand hosted the world premiere of the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux — the iconic pickup now, for the first time, comes in fully electric and hydrogen versions. The debut marks a meaningful waypoint in the Japanese brand’s electrification strategy.

As reported by journalists from 32CARS.RU, the electric Hilux is equipped with a 59.2 kWh battery and two eAxle motors with a combined output of 196 hp. The driving range exceeds 300 km. The battery is mounted beneath the frame, improving weight distribution and capability while preserving the model’s off-road character — a thoughtful bit of packaging for a truck that spends time off the beaten path.

Toyota Hilux
© global.toyota

Sales will begin in Asia in 2026, with the hydrogen version expected to arrive in Europe and Oceania by 2028. Japan, meanwhile, will keep a diesel variant adapted to local conditions.

According to Toyota chief brand officer Simon Humphries, the Hilux reflects the company’s multi-pathway approach — a flexible strategy for electrification in which each country gets an optimal solution.

The new Hilux remains the same rugged pickup, now offering three clear routes into the future: diesel, electric, and hydrogen — a pragmatic spread for buyers who value choice.