Hilux Hybrid 48V adds 12 electric kW, 65 Nm to 2.8 GD6
Toyota Hilux has announced a new hybrid Hilux for Europe in 2024. Likely to follow in SA and globally, the new 48V starter generator adds 12 kilowatts and 65 electric Newton-metres to the Hilux’s 2.8 GD6 turbodiesel. Which would translate to 162 kW and 565 Nm in the regular bakkies, or a handy 176 kW and 615 Nm in GR-tuned vehicles.
Hybridisation comes courtesy of a belt-integrated 12 kW and 65 Nm starter-generator mounted to the Hilux’s 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-pot. This first step towards a more electrified future Hilux adds both efficiency and a performance boost thanks to that additional electric output, while also bringing a more comfortable drive in traffic.
Starter-generator powered by 48V battery
The belt-integrated starter-generator is powered by 7.6 kg a 48V battery mounted below the rear bench seat. In typical Toyota Hybrid style, the lightweight cell charges up under deceleration and braking and deploys a 5% efficiency boost under power. It also brings an improved stop-start system to switch the engine off for longer periods at standstill in traffic.
Toyota has not yet revealed any figures. However, based on the regular 2.8 GD6’s 7.9 litres per 100 km, expect the Hilux Hybrid 48V to return this side of 7.4 l/100 km. Idle speed is also reduced from 720 to 600 rpm. This 48V hybrid system will also be available as an optional on the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado when it launches next year.
Comfier ride, better off-road too
Toyota claims hybridisation not only brings a more comfortable drive to Hilux in traffic. Thanks to quicker throttle response and a quieter stop-start-up, but it also improves off-road ability. That thanks to electric power delivering smoother acceleration on tough terrain, and regenerative braking system improving stability on hill descent.
Other 2024 Hilux enhancements confirmed alongside the new Hybrid 48V option include waterproofing improvements. To allow wading at depths of up to 700 mm. Hilux Hybrid 48V hauling ability remains unchanged at its 1000 kg payload and 3500 kg braked towing capacity.
Will 48V come to SA? Well its built in Durban
There’s no news yet on South African launch. But Hilux Hybrid 48V will be built at Toyota’s Prospection, Durban plant. Watch this space for news on this, and a new widebody GR Hilux for the local market soon.
