Toyota Hilux EV : Le pick-up électrique interdit que l'Amérique désire

What Happened

Toyota has officially pulled the curtain back on the electric future of its legendary Hilux pickup, confirming a battery-electric version for the 2026 model year. However, for American truck enthusiasts hoping to get their hands on this icon of durability, the news is bittersweet. Toyota has confirmed that the Hilux EV is primarily targeted at markets in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, with sales expected to start in late 2025 and 2026.

Despite the booming electric truck market in the United States, Toyota has made no official announcement regarding a US release for the Hilux EV. Instead, the company appears to be sticking with its strategy of separating its global mid-size truck offerings, keeping the Hilux abroad while the Tacoma holds down the fort in North America.

Key Details

• Battery & Range: The Hilux EV is reported to feature a 59.2 kWh battery, offering a range of approximately 149 miles (WLTP).
• Powertrain: It utilizes a dual-motor setup, providing 4WD capability, which is essential for the Hilux’s workhorse reputation.
• Launch Timeline: Production and sales are slated to begin in Thailand by late 2025, followed by Europe and other markets.
• US Status: Not confirmed. There are currently no plans to import or manufacture the Hilux EV for the US market.

Why It Matters

For Consumers

The “forbidden fruit” syndrome is real. The Hilux is legendary for its indestructibility (thanks, Top Gear), and an electric version is a dream for many off-roaders and fleet owners. However, the confirmed specs—specifically the 149-mile range—might actually be a relief for some US buyers. In a market where the Silverado EV and Rivian R1T are pushing 400+ miles, a sub-150-mile truck would likely struggle to find a foothold outside of niche local fleet use.

For the Industry

This move highlights Toyota’s “multi-pathway” approach. They aren’t going all-in on massive, long-range EVs for every market. The Hilux EV is designed for specific use cases—likely urban work trucks and short-haul logistics in markets where distances are shorter than in the US. It also signals that Toyota is serious about electrifying its commercial lineup, even if the US isn’t the first recipient.

The Backstory

The Toyota Hilux and the Toyota Tacoma split paths decades ago. The Tacoma was designed specifically for American roads and drivers—wider, more comfortable, and gasoline-focused. The Hilux remained the global workhorse—narrower, diesel-heavy, and utilitarian. Bringing the Hilux EV to the US would not only require navigating the infamous “Chicken Tax” (a 25% tariff on imported light trucks) but also cannibalizing sales from the popular Tacoma, which recently got a hybrid powertrain but no full EV version yet.

Expert Reactions

Automotive Analysts have noted that the Hilux EV’s specifications are “decidedly modest” by American standards.

“The 59.2 kWh battery is small for a pickup. While adequate for a work truck in Bangkok or London, it would be a hard sell in Texas where drivers expect to tow and haul over long distances without constant charging stops.”

What’s Next

While the Hilux EV isn’t coming, this doesn’t mean Toyota is ignoring US EV trucks.

• Watch for the Tacoma: The next logical step for the US market is an electric Tacoma.
• Solid State Batteries: Toyota is heavily investing in next-gen battery tech. A US-bound electric truck might be waiting for this technology to offer the range American buyers demand.
• Hydrogen FCEV: Toyota is also testing a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hilux in the UK. This technology might actually make more sense for the US market’s towing and range needs if infrastructure improves.

Timeline:

• Late 2025: Hilux EV launches in Thailand/Europe.
• 2026-2027: Potential announcement of a dedicated US electric truck (Tacoma EV or new model).
• 2028: Hydrogen FCEV Hilux pilot programs expand.

Our Take

As much as we’d love to see the Hilux badge on US streets, keeping this specific EV version away is probably the right call. A 149-mile range truck would likely be panned by US critics and consumers spoiled by 300+ mile ranges. Toyota is saving its US electric truck debut for something that can truly compete with Ford and Rivian on specs. We’re missing out on the nameplate, but we might be dodging a range-anxiety bullet.

The Bottom Line

The Toyota Hilux EV is real, it’s coming soon, but it’s not for us. With a modest range and a focus on Asian and European markets, it’s a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose American daily driver. US buyers will have to wait for an electric Tacoma or a future long-range surprise from Toyota.