While it’s still a long way from being a production reality, research and development of a hydrogen-powered Hilux from Toyota has begun.

While the world seems to be focused mostly on electrification, there are still other options to be explored when it comes to alternative sources of propulsion. Things like biofuel and hydrogen are gathering momentum, and Toyota reckons a hydrogen-powered Hilux is worthy of investigation.

Toyota UK will be receiving funding from the UK government to investigate and develop a hydrogen fuel cell-powered prototype Toyota Hilux. Toyota’s 2nd-gen fuel cell technology will be utilised, straight from the current Mirai.

“The UK is one of the key markets for pick-up trucks and is an important market for Toyota. This funding represents a tremendous opportunity to develop a zero emission solution in a critical market segment.We would like to thank the UK Government for the funding that will enable the consortium to investigate the development of a fuel cell powered powertrain for the Toyota Hilux, supporting our carbon neutrality ambition,” said Matt Harrison, President & CEO of Toyota Motor Europe.

Toyota will be teaming up with a few engineering partners like Ricardo, ETL, D2H and Thatcham Research and together the goal is to convert a Hilux into a fuel cell electric vehicle.

More: Want to buy a new or used Toyota Hilux? Browse stock here

The first initial prototypes are expected to be built at Toyota UK’s facility in Burnaston, England in 2023 and if things go according to plan and testing is successful, the goal is small series production.

Challenges? Well, we think range and weight will pose and interesting challenge, but we’re excited by the idea of a revolutionary new powertrain in something as iconic and popular as the Hilux. Yes, the vast majority of customer will likely prefer the tried-and-tested diesel powertrain, but this is one way of future-proofing the Hilux.

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