Toyota’s world-first pickup doesn’t give up on this one controversial powertrain

The all-electric Hilux debuts in Europe to share many of the specs.

In November of 2025, Toyota unveiled the all-new next-gen Hilux and, with it, an all-electric version. Now, the automaker has just unveiled the Euro-spec version and, at the same time, more detailed specifications.

While the introduction of the new generation of the world’s most iconic and popular midsize pickup truck is big news, the biggest news is the BEV (Battery-Electric Vehicle) variant.

Besides being the world’s first mass-produced midsize pickup EV, it’s also proof that Toyota hasn’t given up on controversial powertrain technology.

Solid specs, but is it enough?

When Toyota revealed the Hilux BEV, key features included a dual-electric motor setup with a 59.2 kWh battery pack. Engineers said the system could crank out about 350 lb-ft of torque, though they didn’t go into much detail.

Along with the new Euro version, Toyota confirms that the Hilux BEV’s motors produce 151 lb-ft at the front and 198 lb-ft at the rear for a total of 349 lb-ft of torque.

The result is a driving range of up to 159 miles in the WLTP rating in off-road conditions. But in urban conditions the distance can increase to 236 miles.

It can still drag. But its payload and towing capacity is lower than the diesel-powered version, which is due to the heavier weight of the electric powertrain gear.

With the more conventional turbo-diesel engine, the Hilux is capable of up to 2,205 pounds and towing up to 7,720 pounds.

But with the BEV, it can only tow between 1,580 pounds and 3,350 pounds.

Not for regular truck owners

Electric vehicles have recently declined in both demand and desire as their time on the market has revealed many of their weaknesses. The hype around them spread so much that many car manufacturers with aggressive electrification strategies pumped the brakes on their strategies.

However, some, like Toyota, are still looking to keep electric power for those who want it. And the Hilux BEV marks a major stepping stone for the segment. This is a very small niche though.

While the specs are solid, they’re not shocking. For example, many buyers, especially those who need to travel long distances, find the Hilux BEV’s driving range to be low.

But according to Toyota, the Hilux BEV isn’t really aimed at private consumers who do a lot of driving. Rather, it is intended for commercial and fleet uses with fixed travel routes.

In which case, the Hilux BEV could make a lot of sense.

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