Hydrogen HiLux confirmed for Oz!

Many car brands have abandoned hydrogen as a viable fuel source for vehicles, however Toyota has now confirmed it will be adding it to its best-selling model in Australia.

Alongside the announcement of the new, ninth-generation Toyota HiLux ute, the Japanese carmaker has confirmed it will offer a hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) version to sit alongside turbo-diesel and battery electric (BEV) versions.

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For context, the turbo-diesel HiLux variants are set to launch in December 2025 and the HiLux BEV is set to launch in the first half of 2026.

Speaking with Australian media, Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley explained why the HiLux FCEV will follow so long after the launch of the other variants.

“So, the issue for hydrogen right now is cost and infrastructure,” said Hanley.

“The only way that we’re going to accelerate that is if we come together with companies, energy companies and government.

“But car companies are going to have to give some commitment to production vehicles, otherwise infrastructure will be a slow take up,” he said.

Hanley still believes hydrogen will become more mainstream by around 2035 to 2040.

Toyota on a global and local level is investing heavily in hydrogen technology and lobbying for expanded refuelling infrastructure.

The Japanese carmaker admits the HiLux FCEV will be aimed largely at fleets. It’s unclear whether it will be offered for public sale, or if it will only do leases like it does for the current Mirai FCEV liftback.

No further details or specifications for the HiLux FCEV have been announced yet.

At the launch of the turbo-diesel HiLux, a total of 16 variants will be offered across single-, extra-, dual-cab, 4x2 and 4x4, six-speed manual and automatic, as well as WorkMate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X trims.

All turbo-diesel HiLux variants are powered by the venerable carryover 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with 150kW and 500Nm (420Nm with manual).

The 48V mild-hybrid 'V-Active Technology' version of this 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine is still offered and now standard from SR automatic dual-cab trims and above. It brings stop-start tech, as well as an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor for additional thrust when accelerating.

The 2.7-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol and 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines have been axed with this new-generation HiLux.

Beyond the new looks, the HiLux picks up an electric power steering system, 'Multi-Terrain Select' off-road traction control modes (on SR automatic 4x4 trims and above), as well as more active safety features.

While the HiLux is still based on Toyota’s 'IMV' body-on-frame platform, which dates back to its claims to have improved comfort, rigidity and crash performance thanks to new hydraulic engine mounts and shear-type cabin mounts.

More information on the new HiLux will be detailed ahead of its local launch.