The recently unveiled Toyota Hilux Electric is not headed to the U.S. where the Tacoma, with the optional hybrid variant, will continue as the entry-level option.
At the 2025 Thai Motor Expo, we closely examined the conversion-type electric pickup truck to learn about its technical and cosmetic details. Here are our observations about the Hilux EV:
Design
The Toyota Hilux Electric, or Hilux Travo-e, adopts a new exterior design created under “Cyber Sumo” and “Tough and Agile” themes. The front end features a two-tier fascia with slim headlight units connected by a closed gloss black panel that displays the TOYOTA wordmark. The bumper has angular sections and integrated lower openings.
Toyota has introduced the Hilux Electric only in a crew cab configuration. The side profile includes body-colored wheel arches, redesigned side steps, and 17-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels wrapped in 265/65R17 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires.
At the rear, the tailgate carries the TOYOTA name in raised lettering and model inscription in the grab handle. The taillights have a vertical layout and feature black surrounds. The cargo bed uses stamped metal surfaces without a liner in the display model.
Interior
The Toyota Hilux Electric features a redesigned cabin built around a horizontal center-console layout and a three-tier dashboard that sits lower to improve forward visibility.
A fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster is standard, paired with a 12.3-inch touchscreen positioned above the center console. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, embedded navigation, and connected services.
The cabin incorporates newly developed seats, and available equipment includes an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment. The wider center console includes a padded lid aligned with the door armrest height and offers additional storage. The climate control panel uses large physical switches placed directly below the touchscreen.
The Hilux Electric’s newly designed, electric power steering wheel features grouped controls for infotainment, audio, and driver-assistance functions, with heating available on certain trims. The Japanese electric truck also comes with a wireless device charger and new rear USB ports.
Our observations in the Toyota Hilux Electric
Ingress in the Hilux Electric feels identical to the combustion model. At 5’7” tall, I used the side step to access the cab. The driver’s seat provides firm back support with well-shaped side bolsters that hold without feeling tight. In my preferred driving position, I had approximately six inches of headroom, and the under-thigh support was good, too. Forward, side, and rear visibility are clear.
Rear entry posed no difficulty either. I had sufficient headroom but felt it may be limiting for passengers who are above six feet tall. Rear knee clearance was generous at approximately six inches, though the seat base required a slightly upright knee angle, giving average under-thigh support.
The non-flat floor leaves more usable footwell space for the outboard positions. Rear back support is adequate and the seatback angle is typical for a pickup truck. Rear amenities include a fold-down armrest with two cupholders, two USB Type-C ports, two rear air vents, two seatback pockets, and seatback-integrated hooks accessed by pressing the release points.
Specifications
The Hilux Electric rides on the latest iteration of the IMV (Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle) platform. It uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with a combined output of 193 horsepower. The front motor produces 110 horsepower and 152 lb.-ft. of torque. The rear motor is rated at 173 hp and 198 lb.-ft. of torque.
A 59.2 kWh NMC battery operating at 296 volts powers the system. Charging capability is listed at up to 10 kW on AC and up to 125 kW on DC. Toyota estimates a WLTP range of approximately 149 miles (240 km).
Pre-homologation data indicates a payload capacity of 1,576 lbs and a towing capacity of 3,527 lbs. For comparison, the current Hilux supports up to 2,205 lbs of payload and up to 7,716 lbs of towing.
Release Date
The Toyota Hilux Electric will start arriving at European dealerships in the coming weeks. In the UK, it reaches dealer showrooms in June 2026. The modest specifications of the Hilux EV, high import tariffs, and the dip in local demand for electric pickup trucks are likely to keep this model from reaching U.S. shores.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
