Yes, the worlds best selling pickup truck has taken on an electric powertrain. The target market for this all-electric Toyota Hilux BEV in Malaysia centres primarily on commercial fleet operators, corporate ESG-conscious businesses and urban lifestyle buyers looking to offset high diesel costs with a premium, zero-emission pickup.
Let us explain further. For companies in construction, plantations, or logistics looking to meet internal corporate sustainability mandates and reduce carbon footprints, this is the vehicle for its fleet use.
Then there will be individuals (urban cowboys) based in dense metropolitan areas (like Petaling Jaya and the Klang Valley) who want the rugged aesthetic of a Hilux but drive primarily in urban environments rather than deep off-road trails.
With diesel prices hovering at RM4.0/L, it appeals to fleet managers looking for a hedge against fluctuating fuel costs, as charging with electricity provides significantly lower per-kilometer operating costs.
The Technology
This Hilux BEV (priced at RM226,300) offers dual-motor performance. Designed with 9th-generation styling, it features a 59.2 kWh battery, roughly 260 km of WLTP range, and a 750 kg payload capacity. It supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging. It is powered by an electric motor with 193 hp and available in AWD.
The 59.2 kWh battery offers an estimated range up to 315 km (NDC) or 260 km (WLTP). It supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging (10% to 80% in 30 minutes) and 10 kW AC charging.
It features a water wading depth of 700 mm and multi-terrain select modes for heavy-duty environments.
The Drive
The driving dynamics of the Toyota Hilux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) represent a radical shift from the traditional diesel-clattered truck experience. By swapping out a heavy combustion engine for electric motors and mounting the battery packs low, Toyota has radically changed how this iconic ute behaves on and off the road.
We know that traditional unladen diesel pickup trucks have a rear-end bounce and stiff ride when unladen, but this Hilux EV behaves differently. Because the 59.2 kWh battery is packaged directly between the chassis rails, the weight is concentrated down low. This low-slung mass significantly reduces body roll, side-to-side head toss and tram-lining over uneven surfaces, making it feel much more planted in corners.
It is equipped with De Dion-type leaf-spring rear suspension designed to handle the extra battery weight while mimicking traditional pickup workhorse capability. While it can still feel slightly firm when completely empty, it has far superior composure compared to a standard diesel powered Hilux.
The battery weight that aids its brilliant driving dynamics are best suited for local fleet work, plantation work and short-distance utility runs rather than long-distance heavy work.
The Cabin
Open the door and you will immediately appreciate this all new cabin experience. Yes, its new look is taken from the Toyota SUV range. It’s premium to the touch and feel and has a upmarket feel all around the cabin.
Front seats are well padded and comfortable and without glancing to the rear, you feel like you are commanding a RAV4 or Land Cruiser.
Verdict At The End
Well, it’s not locally assembled, it’s not made in China and its got a battery as a powertrain, so do not think it will be reasonably priced. This is a premium electric pickup truck and that is why UMW Toyota has its sticker price above RM200k. Well, right now, all its rivals in Malaysia are also priced in and around RM200k so this is where your decision to purchase must come from another angle. Not price point ……
