Toyota has been showcasing various electric vehicle (EV) concepts in recent years, but it’s clear that their showrooms could benefit from an expanded range of electric cars. Currently, Toyota’s global EV lineup consists of the bZ4X SUV, the China-exclusive bZ3 sedan, and the Lexus RZ and UX 300e. However, a new addition to this lineup is in the works – an all-electric pickup truck that will be available in Thailand in limited numbers.
Toyota is also considering EV pickups for last-mile deliveries
The decision to trial the new EV pickup in Thailand is a strategic one, as pickup trucks account for nearly half of all vehicle sales in the country. Pras Ganesh, executive vice president of Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing, revealed that engineers are busy adapting Toyota’s electric pickups to suit local conditions. The first batch of these pickups will be deployed as taxis in Pattaya city in early 2024.
Toyota is also considering testing other EV pickups for last-mile delivery services. Furthermore, the company is enhancing its EV research and development capabilities in Thailand, one of its five global R&D centers.
While Ganesh didn’t specify which EV pickup will be tested in Thailand, there are two likely candidates. The first is the Hilux Revo BEV Concept, unveiled in Thailand last year, with no commercial sales date announced yet. The second option could be the IMV 0 concept, a new modular light commercial pickup that was described as “truly affordable and truly innovative.”
Launching an electric Hilux or IMV in Thailand would also help Toyota to compete with Chinese rivals such as BYD and Great Wall Motor. Furthermore, Toyota is considering Australia as another potential market for the electric Hilux.
As for the U.S. market, the Hilux Revo is unlikely to be available there since the ICE-powered Hilux is not sold in North America. However, Toyota recently revealed the production-ready EPU Concept at the Japan Mobility Show, which could potentially rival the Ford Maverick if it were to be launched in the U.S.
RELATED:
- Lucid’s Electric Cars may Receive Apple and Amazon Music Support Soon
- Mercedes Benz’s AMG Electric Concept Car may have 1000 Horsepower at Reveal
- Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
(Via)
