In recent years, the Philippine motoring industry has warmly welcomed the introduction of hybrid and electric vehicles or EVs. As evidenced by the recently concluded 2024 Manila International Auto Show, more than half of the latest cars on display were either hybrids or EVs.
To some, especially to many so-called “automotive purists” out there, this reality spells the industry’s gradual descent into doom. But many would also argue strongly that the advent of “environment friendly” modes of transport like these is the start of something better for the future. Now, I digress as this hot debate has been going on for decades. All I wanted to share from this article is that the “EV Revolution” is indeed up and running, and it’s undeniable that it’s happening all over the world.
Take for instance the fresh news we got from our sister website, Autocar India. The report says that Toyota has confirmed the 2025 release of a Thailand-spec full-electric version of their popular pickup truck, the Hilux. Yes, even the mighty Toyota, known for their resistance to fully adapting EV technology, has somehow glanced in a different direction in Thailand. This news came after Isuzu announced their move to manufacture the D-Max EV pickup during the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS).
Toyota Thailand says the upcoming Hilux EV will be based on the current generation Hilux model similar to the 2022 Hilux Revo EV Concept seen in the above photo. Although Toyota didn’t reveal any important technical spec about the Hilux EV such as its power output, range, and battery capacity, Toyota Thailand President Noriaki Yamashita says that they will put a fleet of Hilux EV prototypes to the test next month as public transport vehicles, perhaps to see what further improvements can be done to it before the 2025 launch.
But… do keep in mind that it’s in Thailand. The market and automotive landscape there is much different than ours. This opens up a question – How would a full EV Hilux fare against the Philippine automotive market if Toyota decides to bring it in? Yes, the Toyota brand’s magic and legacy is there, and many stand firm by the brand’s pursuit of reliable and market-friendly vehicles. But would Filipinos welcome an EV Toyota Hilux? Moreover, will Filipinos, known for maximizing the capabilities and practical aspects of pickup trucks, even welcome the idea of an EV pickup to begin with? I’ll leave these questions open-ended.
As one final info, did you know that there already is an EV pickup in the country? This is in the form of the Dongfeng Rich 6 EV, which was launched in October last year. Now, I can’t say for certain of the Rich 6 EV’s market reception, as well as its year-to-date sales performance as we’ve not yet been given any official sales figures by Dongfeng Philippines.
Regardless of the make or model, would you even consider buying an EV pickup for your business endeavors or leisure activities with family and friends?
