Toyota appears to have given us a peek behind the curtain at just how it would plug-in power its hybrid HiLux workhorse, with reports firming that the new mini HiLux will debut PHEV tech in the brand's ute space.
Reportedly codenamed Project 150D, and designed to take on everything from the BYD Mako or Shark 5 to the Ford Maverick, the monocoque ute will reportedly adopt a version of the plug-in hybrid system from the brand's Prius.
That would pair a 2.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 166kW, while the e-CVT is joined by a second electric motor to enable eFour all-wheel drive.
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Toyota is reportedly targeting the first half of 2027 for the launch of the mini HiLux.
Toyota opening the door to its passenger range for its commercial plug-in options gives the brand some interesting choices for the long-expected plug-in hybrid HiLux, chief among them being the powertrain from the new RAV4 PHEV GR Sport.
That model develops a total 227kW, with a 2.5-litre petrol engine joined by two electric motors, which also delivers AWD grip.
Toyota has previously confirmed work is underway on PHEV technology that would suit the user case of HiLux, with the brand's former VP of Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley saying "you'd never rule it out" when asked at the unveiling of the 2026 range.
"Battery technology evolves, and it's evolving quickly. If we can get to a situation where a PHEV has the capability of doing 200-plus kilometres on BEV alone - so in other words, if I've got a HiLux I can just go around town, I can run that on BEV and be carbon-neutral pretty well, providing I'm using renewable energy to do it," Mr Hanley has also previously told CarsGuide.
"Now the issue is of course can it tow? Can it take a heavy load? Well, to be able to flick a switch and say, well, for those moments where I'm going out off-road or for those moments where I need to tow a heavy load, I've got the convenience of going to a normal hybrid engine and I can get 500 or 600 kilometres and it's convenient, then I see a role for PHEV in that space.
"I think that's some years away, to be honest, that battery technology. But when it comes, PHEVs will have a renewed engagement with the market because they'll go from what I call the ultimate inconvenience to the ultimate convenience."