2026 Toyota HiLux BEV: Affordable Electric Ute Hits the Australian Market

Toyota is set to introduce its first electric utility vehicle (ute) in Australia, featuring a specialized lineup tailored for fleet use. The lineup includes two body styles and a single dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain.

Scheduled to hit showrooms in the second quarter of 2026 (April to June), the 2026 Toyota HiLux BEV will have a starting price of $74,990 before on-road costs for the base SR dual-cab/chassis model. The SR trim will also be available in a dual-cab pickup configuration for $76,490 before on-road costs, while the top-of-the-line SR5 dual-cab pickup will start at $82,990 before on-road costs.

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The electric utes in the HiLux lineup will be the priciest models, with the diesel-powered versions topping out at $71,990 before on-road costs in Rogue or Rugged X trim.

Despite the differences in power sources, the power and torque outputs of the HiLux BEV are comparable to the diesel-powered HiLux. The electric model will only be available with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, consisting of 82kW/206Nm front and 129kW/269Nm rear electric motors, resulting in total system outputs of 144kW and 468Nm. In contrast, the diesel HiLux delivers 150kW of power and between 420Nm and 500Nm of torque.

Equipped with a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery, the HiLux BEV supports fast-charging at up to 150kW on DC power, allowing for a 10 to 80 percent charge in as little as 30 minutes. It also features 10kW three-phase AC charging, which takes approximately 6.5 hours for a 10 to 100 percent charge.

While the driving range figure is yet to be finalized, Toyota anticipates it to be up to 315km on the NEDC cycle. The HiLux BEV boasts full-time all-wheel drive, with variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles for on-road driving and six different terrain modes for off-road driving.

The HiLux BEV is equipped with a uniquely developed suspension system, including frame reinforcements, a robust MacPherson strut front suspension, and a De Dion live axle with a leaf spring setup at the rear. It also features ventilated disc brakes and regenerative braking.

The braked towing capacity of the HiLux BEV is 2000kg, lower than the 3500kg capacity of the diesel HiLux, as well as the expected capacities of the MG U9 EV and LDV eTerron 9 in Australia.

Toyota has conducted extensive testing of the HiLux BEV in collaboration with leading mining fleets, trialing the vehicle on various off-road terrains and in high-temperature remote outback conditions.

Distinctive features of the HiLux BEV include a closed-off upper front grille and aerodynamically enhanced 17-inch alloy wheels.

The SR trim comes with a range of standard equipment, including LED headlights, automatic high-beam, proximity entry and start, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio, and more. The SR5 model adds high-grade LED headlights, LED fog lights, leather-accented upholstery, heated front seats, and an 8-speaker sound system, among other features.

The HiLux BEV is available in Glacier White, Frosted White, and Ash Slate exterior paint finishes, with the latter two options incurring an additional cost. This limited color range indicates the vehicle’s target audience of fleets.

Toyota aims to sell 500 units of the HiLux EV in Australia this year, primarily focusing on mining, construction, and government fleet buyers. This would position the HiLux EV as the best-selling electric ute in Australia, albeit with one of the lowest sales volumes among utes in the country.

John Pappas, Toyota Australia’s vice president of sales, marketing, and franchise operations, expressed excitement about the introduction of the electric HiLux, highlighting the vehicle’s low-emission benefits combined with Toyota’s renowned quality, durability, and reliability.

Currently, there are only two other electric utes available in Australia: the LDV eT60 and the KGM Musso EV. LDV and MG are expected to launch their eTerron 9 and U9 EV models in Australia, while Isuzu is also planning to introduce an electric D-Max.

Pricing for the 2026 Toyota HiLux BEV lineup is as follows:

– 2026 Toyota HiLux BEV SR dual-cab/chassis: $74,990
– 2026 Toyota HiLux BEV SR dual-cab pickup: $76,490
– 2026 Toyota HiLux BEV SR5 dual-cab pickup: $82,990

For more information and to explore the Toyota HiLux showroom, visit the official Toyota website.