Toyota has announced the rollout of a 48V mild hybrid powertrain for its fifth-generation Land Cruiser, coinciding with the introduction of a new Commercial variant designed for light commercial vehicle markets. This innovative hybrid system arrives in conjunction with the all-new Land Cruiser, which made its debut last year.
"All UK Land Cruiser models will adopt the Hybrid 48V system, including the upcoming Land Cruiser Commercial," said a company spokesperson. This marks a significant advancement for the iconic SUV, being its first electrified powertrain introduced in Europe.
The 48V mild hybrid system enhances the existing 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, a powertrain that has received positive recognition since its rollout. Combining this engine with an electric motor-generator and lithium-ion battery, the new setup is engineered to endure tough environments, ensuring the Land Cruiser maintains its legacy for ruggedness.
"The electric motor-generator recovers energy every time the driver comes off the throttle using engine braking," said an engineer involved with the powertrain’s development. This feature improves efficiency while also enabling various enhancements in vehicle performance.
Drivers will also notice added convenience with quicker and quieter engine stop-start capabilities. They can personalize their stop-start preferences through the vehicle’s multi-information display by selecting Normal or Long. The Long option increases the engine's idling stop duration even when the air conditioning is active.
Pricing and ordering information for the passenger version of the Hybrid 48V will be released soon, with the first deliveries anticipated by the end of this year.
In addition to the hybrid update, Toyota's new Land Cruiser Commercial aims to attract business customers looking for superior off-road performance without the load-carrying capacity of larger pickups. This model will launch in August at an estimated price of £51,729.17 for the five-door long wheelbase variant.
"The new Land Cruiser Commercial represents a factory conversion of the passenger model that debuted last year," explained a Toyota product manager. The vehicle is designed to offer an ideal blend of comfort and necessity, targeting users who prioritize performance and economy over sheer carrying capacity.
This commercial variant features modifications such as the removal of rear seats and the inclusion of a full-height metal bulkhead, providing an opaque rear space. With dimensions allowing for a cargo capacity of up to 2,000 liters and a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, the Commercial model proves to be a practical choice for various business needs.
Notably, the new Land Cruiser Commercial will initially use the 2.8-litre engine coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring high levels of performance and versatility. Furthermore, off-road enthusiasts can expect to make the most of specialized driving systems like Crawl Control and Hill-start Assist Control, ensuring that the vehicle excels in all terrains.
As the market trends shift towards sustainability, the integration of the Hybrid 48V system into the Land Cruiser Commercial is set to follow, promising to refine driving performance without compromising on power capabilities.
With the impending launch and the innovative enhancements, Toyota is positioned to strengthen the Land Cruiser's reputation as a reliable, high-performance SUV in both passenger and commercial segments.