Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled the new Hilux, including a battery electric vehicle (BEV) model, at a global premiere event held by Toyota Motor Asia in Bangkok, Thailand on November 10. The company plans to roll out diverse powertrains for the Hilux globally as part of its multi-pathway approach aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. Launches in Asia are set to begin sequentially from 2026 onward, with diesel versions for Japan scheduled for mid-2026.
Toyota stated that its strategy is focused on offering various electrified vehicle options tailored to different regional energy circumstances and customer needs. The new Hilux lineup will include BEV, diesel, and fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) models. The FCEV version is expected to be introduced in Europe and Oceania starting in 2028.
The BEV prototype presented in Thailand features a lithium-ion battery with a total electric power of 59.2 kWh and an estimated cruising range of over 300 kilometers under NEDC mode testing standards. The vehicle uses high-output eAxles both front and rear for a maximum system output of 144 kW and has been designed to maintain off-road performance.
During the event, Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries delivered remarks acknowledging the long-standing relationship between Toyota and Thailand: “Sawadee Krap and greetings to everyone here in Thailand and to all those tuning in from around the world. It is a great pleasure to be back here in Bangkok.
I would like to begin by expressing, on behalf of Chairman Akio Toyoda and all at Toyota Motor Corporation, our condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Toyota has had a close partnership with Thailand for over 60 years. Since the very beginning, this has been not simply an investment, but a partnership. And that partnership has become a friendship.”
Humphries highlighted that since starting production in Thailand in 1963, Toyota’s collaboration with local partners has resulted in more than 14 million vehicles produced there: “What we have achieved here is proof that global success comes from local strength. People in 133 countries around the world now benefit from that the fruits of our partnership. 14 million vehicles have been produced here.”
He also spoke about how feedback from customers worldwide has shaped each generation of Hilux: “With each generation, it has only grown stronger: shaped by roads, by engineers, and most importantly, by the voices of customers everywhere.”
Sumo champion Hakuho Sho attended as a guest at Akio Toyoda’s invitation: “Sawadee Krap Thailand, I was just here in September to expand the Sumo to the world. It is great to be back.
When Akio suggested that I come to Thailand for this occasion, I said ‘of course’.
Thank you again for inviting me to a global launch of a global car, I wish to expand sumo to the same global stage.
Sumo is about purity. It’s training not only for physical strength but also for mental strength. I believe promoting sumo will deliver hope to resolve discrimination and prejudice around the world.
Kob kun krab.”
Simon Humphries thanked Hakuho Sho after his remarks: “Hakuho-san, arigato gozaimasu. Thank you Hakuho! I could not agree more. And so important looking for the future.”
Toyota’s broader environmental vision includes both reducing negative impacts (“Achieving Zero”) and creating additional value (“Beyond Zero”). More information about these initiatives can be found at https://global.toyota/en/mobility/beyond-zero/.
The company says it remains committed to supporting communities through mobility solutions while aligning its efforts with many United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Further details regarding Toyota’s SDG-related projects are available at https://global.toyota/en/sustainability/sdgs/.
Toyota indicated that updates about upcoming launches will be posted on its special website dedicated to this project.
