A hybrid Hilux is on the cards for local introduction according to Toyota South Africa Motors. Limited to mild hybrids, these models bolster the automaker’s global new energy vehicle direction. Here is what we know so far. 
Toyota South Africa Motors has recently hosted some high-level company dignitaries from Japan at the Prospecton Mother factory for Africa. The purpose of the visit for Hiroki Nakajima, Executive Vice President for Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), was to announce a new Global and Regional Policy. The event in Durban was a special occasion in that TSAM was the first affiliate outside of Japan to receive this regional visit following the organisational changes and policy announcement by new Toyota Mobility Concept (TMC) President, Koji Sato, on April 7th.
Related: Toyota has a busy year ahead, here is the verdict of SOMI 2023
Following this momentous visit, we were given exclusive insight after meeting with local head honchos at a roundtable gathering. News that has been making the rounds is that the company will be introducing a hybrid Hilux and Fortuner to join the local lineup. Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM stated that these are on the cards for next year as mild hybrid derivatives.
Related: This Toyota Hi-Ace Wagon is a perfectly kept time capsule to the 1980s
No other details on the models were divulged however this conclusively ties into the New Management Policy & Direction announcement. Toyota has opted to explore a ‘multi-pathway approach’ to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) as well as conventional models rather than place all their eggs in one basket with electrification. Argued as a more pragmatic approach that tailors products to specific market needs, South Africa would form part of the Global South Market, one that comprises emerging markets in continents like Africa, South America and Asia.
“The Mobility Society vision was developed to enhance the value of the car, expand freedom of mobility, and provide new services and energy solutions as part of the Toyota Mobility Concept. We remain firmly committed to our multi-pathway approach and will continue to tailor electrification to the needs of customers and individual regions by drawing on the strengths and characteristics of each vehicle type,” said Nakajima.
The focus on these models is quality, durability and reliability, with an emphasis on high quality and affordability for its buyers. 
The mild hybrid Hilux and Fortuner are still a year away from our market, but the CARmag listings page has hundreds of current new and used models available. Browse here.
