Making its global public unveiling at the ongoing inaugural Japan Mobility Show (JMS) beyond the computer screens is the Toyota EPU Concept. It is Toyota’s vision of an all-electric (EV) pick-up truck and perhaps that is what the EPU name stands for.

While development and trials of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototype are being conducted on the current generation Toyota Hilux in Thailand and Australia, the EPU Concept is significantly smaller than the outgoing model due for replacement.

Even though the overall size is smaller than the outgoing Hilux, the EPU has a longer wheelbase thanks to the more compact front length that doesn’t require much space for the electric drivetrains. Another key difference between the Hilux and the EPU is the platform with the electric truck possibly sitting on a monocoque chassis as opposed to the traditional ladder-frame platform of the former.

Like the Land Cruiser Se concept which was showcased alongside the EPU Concept, Toyota is likely to be demonstrating giga casting techniques for its future EV models. Giga casting reduces the number of parts which reduces the number of time required to put together a car’s body.

Also read: This is a fully electric, mini-Toyota Hilux EV, possibly with gigacasted monocoque chassis

Typical of a concept that envisions the future of mobility, the EPU’s interior shows a steering yoke and ample screens. Toyota is demonstrating the steering yoke at JMS which it calls NEO Steer and it doesn’t act solely to steer the vehicle but also incorporates the accelerator and brake on the wheel itself.

Gamifying the essence of driving aside, the EPU is how Toyota is demonstrating its future of pick-up trucks. With rivals Isuzu and Ford getting ready to introduce their own take on EV pick-ups for the global market, Toyota is showcasing more than just powertrains for its take.

Also read: Isuzu confirms battery-electric D-Max for 2025, to be assembled in Thailand with Norway as the first market