Toyota showcased the latest advances in its hybrid technology at Fieldays 2024, including makeovers for two of its most well-known vehicle lines in New Zealand.
At the forefront of its “strongest SUV and ute lineup ever” being unveiled this year, Toyota has shown off its new generation of Land Cruiser Prado SUVs, as well as New Zealand’s first Hilux hybrid range.
To further drive home its commitment to sustainability, Toyota powered its Fieldays site using hydrogen, one of the most abundant elements in the universe.
Andrew Davis, Toyota New Zealand’s Vice-President Mobility Group, says there was “something for everyone” at Fieldays, with the new vehicles embodying the brand’s values of enjoying the great Kiwi outdoors and getting adventurous.
“Our SUV range is now largely available in hybrid electric powertrains, as we continue to transition to electrified models where we can, with a focus on capability, safety, and affordability,” he says.
“We’re ensuring Kiwis have the best possible vehicles that are safe on roads, while being capable off-road to get around our rugged country, and also carry heavy loads and be adventure ready.”
Hybrid models for keeping Kiwis ahead
The new Prado and Hilux models are supported by hybrid powertrains designed to add fuel through stored electric energy and cut back on CO2 production.
Davis says the Prado has undergone its first major design upgrade in 15 years, stoking “a lot of interest” in fans of the celebrated model.
“The new Prado’s rugged style has officially gone back to its roots,” he says. “It holds its own as a genuine, high quality off-roader, with the benefit of modern technology, improved performance, and is the first Land Cruiser to transition to a hybrid powertrain featuring a 48V Hybrid System matched to a 2.8L diesel engine.”
In unveiling the Hilux Hybrid line up, Toyota says lower emitting workhorse vehicles of this kind will play an increasingly important role in technological transitioning as New Zealand’s key domestic and international export industries decarbonise over the next 10-25 years.
“We are ambitious about adopting new electrified technologies once they become available,” Davis says. “Prado and Hilux with hybrid powertrains can continue to be the hard-working vehicles they are known for, without compromising on performance.”
Complementing the new-generation Land Cruiser Prado and Hilux Hybrid will be refreshed models including the Land Cruiser 70, Land Cruiser 300, RAV4 Adventure, and the NZ-popular Corolla Cross.
Technologies to “preserve our Kiwi way of life”
At Fieldays last week, Toyota powered its site using a hydrogen-fueled generator made with support from a European technology company, using a fuel cell like the power unit found inside the Toyota Mirai.
Known as the EODev GEH2, the generator silently provided power to the event stand, emitting “nothing but a few drops of warm water”.
Davis says technological advancements such as these embody Toyota’s commitment to New Zealand’s agricultural industries, as well as the country’s commitments to sustainability and protecting its natural environment.
“While we all love utes and SUVs that can go anywhere, we also love this country and want to preserve our Kiwi way of life in a less impactful way,” Davis says.
“This is why we are on a path towards lower emissions from our vehicles and that includes all vehicle emissions, not just carbon, without compromising on performance.”
The new Land Cruiser Prado will be available in four grades in New Zealand, and orders for the vehicle are now open. It will arrive for test drives in August and customer deliveries will begin in October.
This content was sponsored by Toyota New Zealand.
