Toyota have expanded their Hilux and Fortuner model ranges with the addition of models equipped with 48V mild hybrid technology. This move forms part of Toyota’s multi pathway approach towards reducing carbon emissions.
While various manufacturers have committed to transforming their model ranges to electric vehicles entirely, Toyota is taking a more conservative approach. They believe that in order to significantly reduce carbon emissions, they need to offer a variety of different powertrains including hydrogen internal combustion vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and conventional combustion engines running on alternative fuels.
Toyota are no stranger to hybrid vehicles, with models like the Prius and Corolla Cross enjoying immense success in South Africa. However the Hilux 48V hybrid is the first new energy vehicle to be launched in the extremely popular LCV bakkie segment.
This 48V mild hybrid technology will be available in 4x2 and 4x4 double-cab Legend and Raider derivatives as well as in the Fortuner. The hybrid system includes a motor generator, a 48-volt Li-Ion battery and a DC/DC convertor that works in conjunction with the tried and tested 2.8-litre GD-6 turbodiesel four-cylinder powertrain and six-speed automatic transmission.
The system truly offers the best of both worlds. This includes improved fuel consumption, reduced emissions as well as an extra 12kW and 65Nm alongside smoother power delivery.
These improvements are achieved through the innovative operation of the system. The motor generator assists the internal combustion engine resulting in less load on that part of the drivetrain, while also powering various auxiliary components in a more efficient manner.
The stop/start system, which is fairly unique fitment to a diesel engine, is said to reduce fuel consumption by as much as 10 percent as the 48V system ensures that the operation of this system is impressively smooth and seamless. These savings are achieved as the engine can remain switched off for longer and because engine idling speed is reduced from 720 to 600rpm.
The addition of the hybrid system significantly alters the driving experience, for the better. During deceleration the motor generator recovers braking energy, which recharges the battery and results in a more natural braking feeling.
The biggest effect of the motor generator is during initial acceleration, which is when the engine is typically under the most load and uses the most fuel. Once on the move it assists in areas of lower efficiency in order to improve responsiveness and the extra 12kW and 65Nm can be felt throughout the rev range but is particularly noticeable when maximum power is needed, such as when overtaking.
This smoother power delivery also assists when tackling off-road obstacles and hybrid models equipped with 4x4 now also feature Multi-Terrain Select which includes various modes that optimise the traction control system according to the driving terrain.
Raider specification revised
Toyota have also announced a refresh of their popular Raider specification which includes a new front-end. Updated Raider models will now feature a redesigned front bumper, honeycomb mesh grille and new fog lamp bezels. The side mirrors, rear bumper and tailgate handle are now painted black while 2.8 models get black painted door handles too.
Specification additions include retractable mirrors on 2.4 models. 2.8 models gain leather seats along with an eight-way power adjustable seat for the driver. 48V hybrid Raider models gain additional specification in the form of jam protection, auto up and down windows, push button start, smart entry and multi-terrain select.
Model range and pricing
All Toyota Hilux Raider models are sold as standard with a nine-services/90 000km service plan and a three-year/100 000km warranty.
Extra Cab
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT R587 200
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6MT R563 200
Double Cab
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6MT R612 100
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT R633 200
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6MT R684 800
Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 4x4 6AT R716 300
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT R769 900
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT 48V R785 400
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6AT R858 600
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 48V R876 600
