The Indian Army has always been at the forefront of ensuring the security and safety of the nation. To fulfill its responsibilities effectively, the Army requires a fleet of vehicles that can withstand challenging terrains and extreme weather conditions. In a significant development, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has delivered the first batch of Toyota Hilux pick-up trucks to the Indian Army, making it the first-ever order from the military organization.
Before becoming a part of the Indian Army’s fleet, the Hilux underwent a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the Northern Command’s Technical Evaluation Committee. The two-month evaluation involved testing the Hilux in rough terrains and extreme weather conditions, including altitudes of up to 13,000 feet and sub-zero temperatures. The vehicle’s exceptional performance during these tests earned it a well-deserved spot in the Indian Army’s lineup of formidable SUVs, alongside the likes of the Mahindra Scorpio and Tata Safari Storme.
The decision to include the Toyota Hilux in the fleet is a testament to its off-road capability and Toyota’s renowned reliability. As the Indian Army has been relying on various 4x4s like the Maruti Gypsy, Mahindra Scorpio, Tata Safari Storme, and Tata Xenon pick-up, the Hilux’s addition provides a versatile and reliable alternative for its operations. The Hilux’s off-road strengths and ability to perform under challenging weather and terrain conditions make it an ideal choice for the Army’s requirements.
One crucial aspect highlighted by the Army is Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s support in customizing the Hilux to meet their specific needs. It indicates the commitment of the manufacturer to ensure that the vehicle meets the stringent demands of the Indian Army. While the exact modifications made to the Army-spec Hilux compared to the civilian-spec model remain undisclosed, it is evident that the military variant has undergone necessary alterations to enhance its performance and functionality in the field.
Under the hood, the Toyota Hilux boasts a robust 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that generates an impressive 204 horsepower and 420Nm of torque (500Nm with the automatic transmission). It offers two transmission options – a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Additionally, the Hilux comes equipped with a standard four-wheel-drive system, a low-range gearbox, and front and rear electronic differential locks, further enhancing its off-road capabilities. With an approach angle of 29 degrees, a departure angle of 26 degrees, and a water-wading capacity of 700mm, the Hilux is well-prepared to tackle various challenging terrains and obstacles with ease.
Apart from the Hilux, the Indian Army has recently acquired the Mahindra Scorpio Classic to replace the older units of the Maruti Gypsy, which had been in service for nearly two decades. Moreover, the armed forces are also exploring the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into their fleet, with the Indian Air Force procuring 12 Tata Nexon EVs for its services.
