KATHMANDU: Toyota has recreated one of the famous Hilux durability tests by dropping a caravan onto the new Hilux BEV. The stunt was inspired by the popular Top Gear Hilux tests from 2003.
Toyota UK asked people online to choose a punishment for the electric Hilux. They could choose between a 1-tonne wrecking ball or a caravan dropped from a height. The caravan option received the most votes.
For the test, Toyota lifted a 760 kg caravan around 30 feet (9.1 meters) into the air. It then dropped the caravan directly onto a new Hilux BEV.
The impact badly damaged the caravan and left the Hilux with a deformed roof, cracked windshield and damage to the rear bed. However, the electric pickup powered up and drove away from the crash site.
Toyota said the battery and electric motors were not damaged in the impact. The battery is mounted on the ladder-frame chassis, while the suspension absorbs much of the force.
The vehicle is likely to be written off because of the body damage. However, the test showed that the main electric powertrain components remained functional after the impact.
Toyota also filmed the stunt using high-speed cameras. One camera was placed inside the caravan to capture the impact from inside.
The company said the caravan debris was collected from Bentwaters Airfield in Suffolk and sent for recycling. Toyota also warned people not to attempt to copy the stunt.
The caravan drop is only the first durability test for the Hilux BEV. Toyota has also offered the electric pickup to the Top Gear YouTube channel for further testing.
The new Hilux is currently offered with mild-hybrid diesel and fully electric powertrains. Toyota has also confirmed a hydrogen-powered Hilux for 2028.
The diesel version continues to account for most Hilux sales, helped by its lower price, easier refueling and higher towing and payload capabilities.
