TOYOTA FORTUNER NEO DRIVE: 48V MILD-HYBRID TECH EXPLAINED
Toyota has entered a new phase in its journey of hybridization with the launch of the Fortuner 48V hybrid in India. While a great majority of Toyota’s cars today are already running its famed strong hybrid system, this ‘new’ 48-volt hybrid system sees the company take its first steps into the electrification of its ladder frame-based vehicles. These in India include the Fortuner, for now, with the Innova Crysta, and the Hilux likely to get the system in future.
- 48V mild-hybrid system produces 11.5hp and 85Nm on its own
- Was first seen on the Hilux pickup in South Africa last year
- System like to be carried over to Innova diesel in future
Toyota Fortuner mild hybrid tech: what is it?
While this system was first showcased last year on the Hilux pick-up in South Africa, a majority of the components and systems used on the Fortuner Neo drive stay the same. The Hilux and Fortuner, for example, share the same 2.8-litre common rail turbodiesel or GD engine, incidentally manufactured in India, and the pair also share the e-motor/generator, a 48V lithium-ion battery and a DC-DC converter included in the system.
In the case of the Fortuner sold here the electric motor-generator – a permanent magnet synchronous unit – puts out 8.5kW or 11.5 hp and 85 Nm of torque. While there is no increase in the maximum combined power (204 hp and 500Nm), getting a strong dash of electric boost at low engine speeds is sure to improve the driving dynamics and elasticity when it comes to responses. The e-motor in the Hilux in comparison puts out 12kW.
Claims to improve efficiency by roughly five percent
Owners can also expect a roughly five percent increase in fuel efficiency with this system. This is mainly due to the collection of otherwise wasted energy by regeneration when the vehicle slows down. Efficiency is also helped by a 20 per cent reduction in the engine’s idling speed, from 720rpm to 600rpm and what’s unique is that the driver can set their preference for a normal or long stop for the start stop system — with the air conditioner operation increased during the long stop.
Toyota has also taken special effort to protect the system from water ingress. The 13 cells battery that weighs 7 kg, for example, is placed under the rear seat. And this is the case with the DC-DC charging system that also sits inside the cabin. The motor/generator is placed up high and in addition, Toyota has also taken precautionary measures when it comes to the belt drive system, making sure it is robust enough for use on off road vehicles. A two-arm tensioner has been tuned for low noise and vibration and the belt has a high-strength cotton fabric layer on the ribbed side of the belt, which helps reduce noise. With an overall weight increase of just around 30kgs, this system, it seems, more than carries its weight when it comes to efficiency.
To find out just how it drives, wait for our review, coming soon.
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2025-06-06T07:44:01Z