Toyota has concluded a successful demo run of the prototype Toyota Hilux MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) in Kasarani, Kenya, possibly highlighting an upcoming Hilux hybrid.

The demo run, held in conjunction with Round 7 of the World Rally Championship (WRC) 2023 in Kenya is to prove the viability and reliability of the powertrain, even when driven in harsh and demanding driving conditions.

Also read: Germany and Switzerland now admit Toyota is right - engines not the enemy, carbon is, EV-only solution is too narrow

Four-time WRC champion Juha Kankkunen who drove the Hilux Hybrid said, “I’m 100% sure that this type of car will fit in Africa very well 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.

"I have had the pleasure of driving different models for the Toyota brand from full-electric cars, hybrid and hydrogen and can attest that these models are much faster than standard models," he added.

Even in relatively well-developed regions of Africa, such as Kenya or even in South Africa, there are some areas where the electricity supply is unstable.

In these areas, if it takes time to solve issues such as stable electricity supply, development of charging networks and securing resources, MHEVs are an important option for immediate CO2 reduction.

The Hilux hybrid is another example of Toyota’s new multi-pathway approach towards carbon neutrality. This means developing and introducing various electrified powertrains - from hybrids to battery EVs to fuel cells - that are fit for purpose to each region and market demand.

Also read: Hydrogen-fuelled Toyota Hilux FCEV begins development; driveable prototype ready in 2023

Though little is known about the Hilux MHEV at this time, it is one of three alternative powertrains that could feature in the next-generation Toyota Hilux.

The other two include the hydrogen-fueled Toyota Hilux fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) currently being developed in the UK as well as the Hilux BEV concept first shown in Thailand at the end of 2022.

Also read: This is the all-electric Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Concept

Closer to home the Toyota Hilux remains one of UMW's best-selling vehicles, ranking second behind the Vios, and head of the Toyota Corolla Cross.

The Toyota Hilux is offered here in 5 variants ranging between RM 104k and RM 159k. The upper two variants, the Hilux Rogue and GR-Sport are powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel which delivers 204 PS and 500 Nm.