Toyota Opens Orders for Its First Body-on-Frame EV Pickup, Starting at Under $60,000

Why It Matters

The Hilux BEV marks Toyota's entry into the growing electric pickup segment, challenging incumbents with a competitively priced, rugged offering. Its launch signals a shift toward electrifying traditional body‑on‑frame trucks, expanding consumer choice and pressuring rivals to accelerate EV development.

Key Takeaways

• Toyota's Hilux BEV starts at under $60,000 globally
• Dual‑motor setup delivers 278 hp and 348 lb‑ft torque
• WLTP range up to 160 miles; city range 236 miles
• Fast charging 125 kW reaches 80 % in ~30 minutes
• Not slated for US due to Hilux absence and tariffs

Pulse Analysis

The electric pickup market is heating up as legacy automakers scramble to capture a segment long dominated by gasoline‑powered trucks. Toyota’s Hilux BEV joins the ranks of the Rivian R1T, Ford F‑150 Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado EV, but differentiates itself with a body‑on‑frame architecture that promises the durability and off‑road capability the Hilux name is known for. By pricing the vehicle below $60,000, Toyota aims to attract commercial fleets and price‑sensitive buyers in markets where the brand already enjoys strong loyalty, leveraging its global supply chain to keep costs competitive.

Technically, the Hilux BEV blends proven drivetrain components with new electric‑specific engineering. A 59.2 kWh water‑cooled battery powers two permanent‑magnet motors, delivering 278 hp and 348 lb‑ft of torque, enough to tow 1,700 kg and negotiate steep terrain with its Multi‑Terrain Select system. The 125 kW DC fast‑charging capability, paired with a 30‑minute 10‑to‑80 % charge window, addresses range‑anxiety concerns for work‑site users. Inside, a dual 12.3‑inch screen layout and third‑gen T‑Mate suite bring a premium cabin experience, aligning the pickup with Toyota’s broader push toward connected, safety‑focused EVs.

Strategically, the Hilux BEV underscores Toyota’s incremental electrification approach. While the company refrains from bringing the model to the United States—citing the absence of a gasoline Hilux and punitive import tariffs—it continues to roll out electric SUVs stateside, such as the Highlander BEV. This market segmentation allows Toyota to test EV pickup demand in regions with favorable regulatory environments and established Hilux sales, gathering data that could inform a future U.S. launch once tariff pressures ease. The move also pressures competitors to broaden their EV lineups and price points, accelerating the overall adoption of electric trucks.