Toyota has an electric pickup? Meet the Hilux BEV [Images]

The Hilux has gone electric. Toyota’s best-selling pickup made its European debut in electric form for the first time at the Brussels Motor Show.

The Toyota Hilux is now an all-electric pickup

The Hilux is one of the most popular pickup trucks sold outside of North America. Since its launch over 50 years ago, Toyota has sold over 27 million Hilux models worldwide. Now, it’s finally getting an electric version.

Toyota showcased the Hilux BEV at the Brussels Motor Show on Friday, marking the first public appearance of the ninth-generation pickup in Europe.

The new Hilux will be available in all-electric and hybrid variants for the first time. Although the Hilux BEV shares the body-on-frame design with the other models, the electric power offers a more capable, unique driving experience.

Powered by a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, Toyota’s electric pickup offers a WLTP range of up to 257 km (160 miles). In the city, Toyota said it can deliver up to 380 km (236 miles) WLTP range.

With an all-wheel drive (AWD) system packing a combined 473 Nm of torque, the Hilux BEV offers 715 kg (1,576 lbs) payload and can tow up to 1.6 tons (3,527 lbs).

The Hilux BEV will be Toyota’s first model equipped with electric power steering, which helps reduce kickback when driving off-road or on uneven terrain.

Toyota also developed a new Multi-Terrain Select System specifically for the electric vehicles, which optimizes brake, torque, and other power settings for more control.

Like the other Hilux models, the EV version has a ground clearance of 212 mm (8.3″) and can wade through 700 mm (27.5″) of water.

The interior features Toyota’s new design theme, shown in its latest vehicles like the Land Cruiser with dual 12.3″ driver display and infotainment screens.

Toyota will launch the Hilux BEV in Europe starting in April, followed by the Hybrid 48V variant in July. For those in the US, don’t get your hopes up. The Hilux isn’t sold in the US, and given the policy changes, Toyota isn’t likely to bring it to the States anytime soon. Ford already ended production of the F-150 Lightning and now plans to replace it with an EREV version.