Toyota hands over Hilux pickup to Indian Army

Gajanan Kashikar Published: July 20, 2023, 02:11 PM IST

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has handed over the Indian Army with the first batch of rugged Hilux 4x4 pickups, marking the vehicle's inclusion in the military fleet after undergoing extensive testing in various terrains and weather conditions. The Northern Command of the Indian Army took deliveries of pickup. The military, which already possesses a diverse range of vehicles, including Tata Safari Storme, Force Gurkha 4x4, Mahindra Scorpio Classic, Tata Xenon pickup, and Maruti Suzuki Gypsy, has now added the Toyota Hilux 4x4 pickup to its fleet.

Indian Army gets Toyota Hilux pickup

To meet the stringent requirements of the Indian Army, the Toyota Hilux underwent rigorous testing for over two months in extreme weather conditions and challenging terrains, including more demanding sub-zero temperatures and altitudes up to 13,000ft.

Highlights of the Toyota Hilux pickup

The Toyota Hilux pickup is globally renowned and widely acclaimed as one of the best-selling pickups worldwide. Boasting impressive dimensions, with a length of 5,325mm, width of 1,900mm, height of 1,815mm, and a wheelbase of 3,085mm, the Hilux stands out for its 4x4 capabilities and Toyota's reliability. Notably, its ground clearance of 310mm and water-wading capacity of up to 700mm make it well-suited for the demanding topography and difficult terrains in India's mountainous regions.

Having made its debut in March 1968, the Hilux has earned its name by blending high-performance with luxury. Over the past five decades and eight generations, Toyota has sold over 20 million units of the Hilux in 180 countries worldwide.

Powertrain of the Toyota Hilux pickup

Under the hood, the Hilux is powered by a 2.8-litre, inline four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, producing 204PS and 420Nm of torque (500Nm with AT). The pickup features a 4x4 system with 4-high and 4-low transfer case, electronic differential lock, downhill control, traction control, electronic drive (2WD and 4WD) control, and hill start assist control, enhancing its off-road capabilities and maneuverability.