Electric options for rural rides
Toyota NZ is putting low-emissions technology in front of visitors to Fieldays this week. Its line-up at the event includes the RAV4 PHEV (plug-in hybrid), the all-new battery electric vehicle (BEV) Hilux and the launch of the bZ4X Touring BEV.
These are being showcased alongside established workhorses, such as the Hilux and Hiace, giving customers a side-by-side look at how different powertrains are suited to different jobs and how they compare in real-world conditions.
Andrew Davis, chief strategic officer, says bringing electrified vehicles into a rural environment is a deliberate move that’s aimed at demonstrating how the technology performs beyond urban settings.
“Fieldays is where New Zealand comes together to talk about how we work, live and move, so it’s the right place to have conversations about what the future of mobility looks like in industries where capability matters most.”
The RAV4 PHEV supports shorter day-to-day driving in electric mode with the flexibility of a hybrid system for longer journeys. Designed to suit a range of needs and lifestyles, it combines electric capability with the reassurance of petrol back-up when required.
The all-electric bZ4X Touring represents Toyota’s latest step forward in battery-electric technology with all-wheel-drive capability designed to provide improved traction and stability across a range of conditions – from gravel roads and ski-field access routes to farm tracks – helping drivers maintain confidence in more challenging environments.
Toyota says its goal at Fieldays isn’t to change perceptions overnight, but to demonstrate how electrification may apply across different industries and operating environments.
“We understand a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for everyone, especially for those in rural New Zealand,” says Davis. “The critical part is to show rural customers that our electric powertrain options are made to meet Kiwi needs.
“If they need a RAV4 to go off-road or a Hilux to do the job on the farm, our models need to be up to the task first. We can then give them a choice of efficient powertrain options that suit their needs best.”
The “future-focused” line-up at Fieldays sits alongside a significant milestone for the brand with Toyota NZ marking 50 years of the Hilux, including the recent introduction of a BEV variant.
“The Hilux has earned its place by proving itself time and time again,” adds Davis. “As we look ahead, we’re applying that same focus on quality, durability, reliability and real-world performance to new technologies.”
As the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural event, Fieldays provides an opportunity for businesses to showcase cutting-edge technology and innovative products to thousands of Kiwis.
For Toyota, that includes Toyota Genuine Accessories, available for many of the models onsite. Davis says the event provides an ideal place to engage with people who are questioning how electrified vehicles fit into rural and industrial sectors.
“Every year our team looks forward to Fieldays and the opportunity to speak directly with customers. We encourage anyone who is curious, or sceptical, to come and talk to us about how the future of mobility could apply across different sectors.”
Toyota is also hosting a line-up of brand guardians at Fieldays, including Paddy Gower, Richie McCaw, Dame Valerie Adams, Matt Watson and Marc Ellis, alongside Toyota NZ executives.
