Toyota has announced plans to begin volume production of a battery-electric version of its popular Hilux pickup truck by the end of 2025.
This decision comes shortly after rival Isuzu Motors revealed its intention to manufacture its D-Max electric pickup in Thailand by the same year.
The president of Toyota Thailand, Noriaki Yamashita, shared this news during the ongoing 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show.
While the Hilux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) could potentially be ready by the end of next year, Yamashita did not specify where the vehicle would be produced.
Initially unveiled as a concept in Thailand in December 2022, the Hilux BEV is equipped with electric motors, batteries, chargers, and other necessary components.
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The vehicle’s design incorporates a closed fascia, eliminating the need for a grille typically found in traditional vehicles. Additionally, a charging port is located at the front fender, with the rest of the vehicle retaining its original design.
Although Toyota and Nissan have traditionally dominated the Thai market, the emergence of new electric models has started to shift sales momentum.
While Toyota still maintains a significant share of Thailand’s auto sales, the country’s increasing adoption of electric vehicles poses a challenge.
Thailand aims for 30% of its vehicles to be electric by the end of the decade, prompting Toyota to develop an electric portfolio to remain competitive in the evolving automotive landscape.