Toyota to test hydrogen Hilux at 2027 Dakar Rally

Toyota is advancing its hydrogen technology through both competitive testing and upcoming commercial production. The company plans to enter the 2027 Dakar Rally with the DKR GR FC Hilux, an experimental prototype utilizing fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology. This prototype will compete in the Mission 1000 category, testing the reliability of hydrogen systems under extreme conditions such as heat, sand, and heavy vibrations.

Following these tests, Toyota intends to launch a commercial hydrogen-powered Hilux in 2028. This production model is expected to offer a range of over 400 km and a towing capacity of 2,500 kg, providing greater versatility than the battery-electric (BEV) version, which has a shorter range and lower towing limit. The FCEV technology, derived from the Mirai, allows for rapid refueling in approximately three to five minutes, significantly faster than the charging times required for electric models. Toyota aims to market the hydrogen Hilux primarily to commercial fleets and companies, though its success will depend heavily on the expansion of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.