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Toyota Hilux GR-S Mild-Hybrid Shows Face At WRC
The automotive industry is experiencing a substantial shift as almost all manufacturers are moving toward electrification to, eventually, achieve carbon neutrality.
The combustion engine is being replaced by electric powertrains, which are more efficient and environmentally friendly. This shift is driven by the need to lower carbon emissions and the desire to give buyers a cleaner and more sustainable driving experience.
The Toyota marque revealed its plans to achieve a zero-emissions future by the year 2050 as it pushes BEV cars worldwide while also planning to launch 10 new vehicles by 2026.
That said, Toyota is busy readying its Hilux mild-hybrid electric bakkie concept vehicle that was seen doing rounds at Kasarani during the seventh round of the World Rally Championship in Kenya with four-time WRC champion and former Toyota world title winner Juha Kankkunen at the helm.
Wearing a colourful camouflage with the words 'Hybrid' on the sides, the concept is based on the GR-S variant, and Toyota isn't ready to reveal what the 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine is paired with.
From what we can gather, the mild-hybrid Hilux could use a 48-volt battery that feeds power to a small electric motor generator and other components.
This setup will allow the Hilux to save as much as 10% on fuel and a target of just over 7l/100 km for SA-bound variants.
"I'm 100% sure this type of car will fit well into Africa because there are still long-distance drives, and it's very difficult to charge electric cars. You can save fuel, which means less CO2. Africa is a good market for this kind of car, and you can make CO2 less with hybrid cars. That is the future," says Juha Kankkunen.
The mild-hybrid Hilux is a testament to Toyota's commitment towards achieving zero emissions. When it launches sometime in 2024, it will rival the likes of the JAC T9 hybrid bakkie that was recently revealed.
The mild-hybrid Hilux could be the last mechanical tweak for the current model before the new one comes in 2025.
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