Electric Toyota HiLux could follow 2024 Toyota Tacoma – report

The Toyota HiLux's US counterpart – the 2024 Toyota Tacoma – is in line to get an electric option for its next generation, according to leaked information that has surfaced online.

Toyota is preparing to launch a new generation of the Tacoma – the smaller of its two North American pick-ups, and America's equivalent of our top-selling HiLux – in late 2023, and it could be available with electric power for the first time.

A recent post on the Tacoma4G forum (via Autoblog) all but confirms the vehicle will be offered with battery-electric power – thanks to information provided by a “tier one” supplier to Toyota – alongside a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.

The carmaker already showed off what an electric Tacoma would look like, through a concept revealed in December 2021 (top of story).

While the last two Tacoma generation have been unrelated to the global HiLux, a report from America's Motor Trend last year revealed the next HiLux and Tacoma would share Toyota's new TNGA-F ladder-frame platform, as the car giant seeks to consolidate many of its global models.

If true, it could give Toyota Australia easy access to the running gear needed for an electric HiLux, with the new-generation ute expected to arrive in showrooms in diesel form in 2025.

An electric HiLux will be needed if Toyota wants to compete with long-time rival Ford, with trademark filings for a Ranger Lightning being unearthed this week, suggesting the Blue Oval’s popular ute may gain the option of battery power.

This week, Chinese automotive giant Geely revealed its Radar RD6 electric dual-cab ute, with Drive being told there are “plans for global markets”.

American electric ute manufacturer Rivian has expressed its desire to expand to Australia, though there are increasing doubts its competitor Tesla will sell its Cybertruck pick-up locally.