Toyota preps first electric pickup, the Hilux BEV, following BYD Shark PHEV truck launch

Toyota is preparing to produce its first electric pickup, the Hilux BEV, in Thailand by the end of next year.

The Hilux, already sold in 180 countries, is the perfect model to go all-electric.

Toyota has been teasing an all-electric version for some time, and the company has confirmed that the Hilux EV will roll out by the end of 2025.

Meanwhile, Chinese automaker BYD has launched its first pickup, the Shark PHEV, with a 100 km all-electric range.

The Shark's fuel consumption is 40% lower than that of a full gas-powered engine truck.

BYD plans to take the pickup globally, and it's expected to be a direct rival to Toyota's top-selling Hilux pickup.

Japanese automakers like Toyota are facing strong competition from Chinese automakers like BYD, MG, and GWM in Thailand's rapidly evolving auto market.

BYD was Thailand’s best-selling EV brand last year, and Toyota will need to hurry to keep up with the changing landscape.