Toyota Drops 760kg Caravan on All-Electric Hilux To Prove It Remains ‘Indestructible’

Toyota has recreated one of the most memorable vehicle durability stunts in television history by dropping a 760kg caravan onto its all-new all-electric Hilux to demonstrate that the iconic pickup truck remains tough despite its transition to electric power.

The stunt pays tribute to a famous 2003 episode of Top Gear, in which the ICE-powered variant of the Toyota Hilux survived a series of extreme challenges designed to destroy it, including being submerged in the sea, struck by a wrecking ball and having a caravan dropped onto it.

For the latest demonstration, Toyota invited Reddit users across the United Kingdom to choose between subjecting the new Hilux to repeated strikes from a one-tonne wrecking ball and recreating the caravan drop. The latter emerged as the preferred option, with hundreds of users voting.

In photos and videos shared by Toyota, a full-size caravan weighing approximately 760kg was suspended 30 feet (9.1 metres) above the pickup at Bentwaters Airfield in Suffolk, England, before being released directly onto its cab, with the dramatic impact leaving debris scattered across the test area.

According to Toyota, the electric Hilux emerged with only modest bodywork damage. After the test, Toyota said the Hilux EV powered up immediately and drove off silently from the scene without breaking a sweat, demonstrating its legendary “indestructible” heritage.

“Dropping a caravan on it wasn’t just about repeating the famous TV stunt, it was our way of showing how Hilux’s core toughness remains intact,” said Chris Hayes, Toyota (GB) Director, Products and Services Division.

Offered with a choice of battery-electric and diesel 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrains, the ninth-generation Hilux combines its traditional workhorse credentials with modern technology. Toyota said more than 27 million Hilux vehicles have been sold worldwide since the model was introduced.

Following the latest stunt, which reinforces the pickup’s longstanding reputation for toughness, Toyota said it had also handed the keys to the electric Hilux to the Top Gear YouTube team for further challenges. The team carried out the original durability trials more than 20 years ago.

• See Also: “TRD 4X4” Lettering Lands Toyota Tacoma Owner In Trouble As Lagos Police Demand Advert Permit