2026 Toyota Hilux Travo-e Review: Toyota’s First Electric Pickup Truck

Toyota Hilux

Overview

The 2026 Toyota Hilux Travo-e marks Toyota’s long-awaited entry into the electric-pickup space.
Revealed first in Thailand, it sits on a re-engineered IMV2 platform and brings modern design, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, and Toyota’s trademark reliability to the EV era.

Despite being Toyota’s first all-electric pickup, it still feels familiar: tough, upright, and ready for both city duty and off-road adventures.


Exterior Design

The Travo-e introduces Toyota’s new Cyber Sumo design language — bold, geometric, and futuristic without losing the Hilux’s rugged character.

Highlights

  • LED headlamps with auto high-beam
  • Gloss-black grille inserts with subtle air intakes for cooling
  • 17-inch aerodynamic alloys on 265/65 R17 Bridgestone Dueler tyres
  • LED taillights framed in gloss black
  • Side steps integrated into the rear bumper for easier bed access

The overall look is less boxy than the Hilux Champ or Land Cruiser FJ, leaning toward a sleeker, more technical aesthetic.


Powertrain and Performance

Under the skin, the Hilux Travo-e uses dual electric motors — one on each axle — delivering a combined 196 horsepower.
Torque output splits at 205 Nm (front) and 269 Nm (rear), providing instant traction and confident acceleration.

Power comes from a 59.2 kWh NMC lithium-ion battery, supporting 125 kW DC fast charging.
Charging from 10 to 80 % takes roughly 30 minutes.

Chassis and Off-Road

  • All-wheel drive with Multi-Terrain Select drive modes
  • Electric power steering for improved precision
  • Upgraded suspension setup tuned for EV weight distribution

The result is a pickup that remains composed on-road and capable off it — a familiar Hilux feel, now in electric form.


Interior and Technology

Toyota redesigned the Travo-e cabin completely. It’s cleaner, more modern, and far more tech-driven than any previous Hilux.

Key Features

  • 12.3-inch digital driver display
  • 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Electronic gear selector with Auto Brake Hold
  • Drive-mode dial (Eco / Normal / Sport / Off-Road)
  • USB-C ports front and rear + AC outlet and 12V socket
  • Power adjustable driver seat with lumbar support
  • 7 airbags and Toyota Safety Sense package (360° camera, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert)

Soft-touch trim across the dashboard and door tops elevates the feel, while the TRD-style steering wheel adds a hint of sportiness.

Storage is plentiful — twin cup holders, a large center console with extra ports, and a sunglass holder above.

Hilux electric pickup

Rear Seats and Practicality

Rear space is respectable for a midsize EV pickup. A six-foot driver leaves average knee room behind, with supportive seat cushions and plush upholstery.

Back Cab Details

  • Dual USB-C charging ports
  • Rear AC vents
  • Folding armrest with cup holders
  • Hanging hooks and seat-back pockets

Plastics in the back doors feel cheaper than the front, but fit and finish remain solid.
The cabin also includes eight grab handles — a nice touch for climbing in and out, especially off-road.


Cargo Bed and Utility

The display vehicle lacked a bed liner, but Toyota confirms it will be available as a dealer accessory.
Payload and towing figures aren’t final, though the dual-motor setup and strong torque suggest it will match or exceed diesel Hilux numbers for light utility use.


Safety and Driver Assistance

Toyota includes the latest Safety Sense suite:

  • Forward collision warning and autonomous braking
  • Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane departure assist and lane-keep alert
  • 360° camera system with parking guidelines

Seven airbags and high-strength body reinforcements bring class-leading protection.


Verdict

The 2026 Hilux Travo-e is more than just an electric version of a familiar pickup — it’s Toyota’s first confident step into full-size EV utility.
It blends modern tech with traditional Hilux durability, offering a realistic electric alternative for emerging markets and fleet buyers.

Pros ✅

  • Dual-motor AWD with strong torque
  • Modern, tech-rich interior
  • Familiar Hilux toughness and practical layout
  • Toyota Safety Sense as standard

Cons ❌

  • Some rear plastics feel budget
  • Bed liner optional extra
  • Rear legroom only average

Final Word:
The Hilux Travo-e 2026 brings genuine excitement to Toyota’s pickup range. It’s tough, forward-thinking, and proof that electrification doesn’t have to mean compromise — just evolution.

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Pravin is a tech enthusiast and Salesforce developer with deep expertise in AI, mobile gadgets, coding, and automotive technology. At CarzCorner, he shares practical insights and research-driven content on the latest tech and innovations shaping our world.

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