Toyota HiLux BEV survives caravan drop

Toyota has showcased the durability of its upcoming HiLux BEV by dropping a suspended caravan onto the electric ute in a publicity stunt inspired by one of the most memorable vehicle tests in motoring television history. Despite sustaining major body damage, the vehicle remained operational following the impact.

As manufacturers increasingly introduce electric utes, Toyota has chosen an unconventional way to demonstrate the toughness of its battery-powered HiLux.

The test was organised by Toyota UK, which asked online users to choose how the HiLux BEV should be challenged. The options included a wrecking-ball strike or a suspended caravan drop, with the latter receiving the most support.

Engineers then lifted a 760kg caravan approximately 9 metres above the vehicle before releasing it. The caravan landed directly on the HiLux's roof, crushing the upper body structure and shattering the windscreen.

While the bodywork suffered significant damage, Toyota says the vehicle's key electric components remained intact. Video released by the company shows the HiLux BEV powering up and driving away after the impact.

The result reflects the HiLux's long-standing reputation for durability, a characteristic that has helped make it one of the world's best-known pick-up trucks across global markets.

Toyota also confirmed debris from the caravan was recovered after filming and sent for recycling.

The electric HiLux uses a ladder-frame chassis architecture similar to existing combustion-powered models. Toyota indicated the battery pack and electric drive system were not affected by the impact test, suggesting the vehicle's structural layout helped isolate critical components from the force of the collision.

The caravan drop appears to be only the first stage of Toyota's durability demonstration program for the HiLux BEV.

The manufacturer has handed the vehicle to Top Gear's YouTube team for additional testing, with further challenges expected to be released in future episodes.

Toyota currently offers the HiLux with diesel and electrified powertrain options in a range of markets, while a hydrogen-powered variant has also been confirmed for later this decade.

The HiLux BEV is expected to play a key role in broadening the ute's appeal as emissions regulations tighten in key global regions.

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