Can Toyota’s electric Hilux really justify a price tag close to a Ford Raptor? That is the big question surrounding the newly announced 2027 Toyota Hilux EV, which arrives with bold pricing and specifications that push it into unfamiliar territory. Has Toyota’s legendary workhorse become too expensive, or is this simply the cost of moving into the future?
After undergoing extensive testing in extreme temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius, Toyota Australia has officially introduced the first fully electric version of the iconic Hilux. This marks a major shift for a pickup long known for its tough diesel engines, with Toyota positioning it mainly for government fleets, mining operations, and construction companies, while still making it available for private buyers interested in zero-emission driving.
Unlike the traditional Hilux, the electric version features a redesigned front end and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that clearly separates it from the combustion-powered model.
Performance And Driving Range
Toyota has equipped the Hilux EV with two electric motors. The front motor produces 110 horsepower and 206 Nm of torque, while the rear motor generates 173 horsepower and 269 Nm of torque.
Combined, the system delivers 193 horsepower with intelligent torque distribution between the axles for improved traction and off-road stability.
Power comes from a 59.2-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering up to 315 km of driving range for the SR5 trim and 245 km for the SR version. Toyota says the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
Built For Heavy-Duty Work
Toyota has made several engineering changes to preserve the Hilux’s reputation as a serious work truck.
The chassis has been reinforced, while the rear suspension uses a De-Dion setup with leaf springs to maintain load-carrying capability. The electric Hilux can tow up to 2,000 kg and features a Multi-Terrain Select system with six different driving modes for various surfaces and off-road conditions.
Interior And Technology
The electric Hilux will only be available as a double-cab model and comes in two trim levels.
The entry-level SR includes LED headlights, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 1,500-watt power inverter for small electrical devices.
The higher-spec SR5 adds heated leather seats, an eight-speaker audio system, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera system.
The Price Debate
This is where the biggest controversy begins. Pricing for the base Hilux EV SR starts at $52,540, while the SR5 climbs to around $57,000.
That puts it surprisingly close to larger and more powerful trucks, especially when compared to the 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor, which starts at around $79,000 in the United States.
For many buyers, this could make the Hilux EV feel expensive considering its relatively short driving range and smaller size.
ArabGT Opinion
The electric Hilux is an important step forward, especially for businesses looking to reduce carbon emissions and modernize their fleets. However, with a maximum range of only 315 km and a price that edges toward premium pickup territory, Toyota may struggle to convince traditional Hilux buyers to make the switch.
The Hilux built its reputation on toughness, reliability, and the ability to keep going no matter the conditions. The real question now is whether a relatively small battery pack can earn the same trust that Toyota’s diesel engines built over decades.
