Toyota Kirloskar Motor Showcases Special-purpose Hilux at the Indo-Pacific Armies Chief’s Conference
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Showcases Special-purpose Hilux at the Indo-Pacific Armies Chief’s Conference
Bengaluru, 27 September 2023: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) proudly showcased a Toyota Hilux which has been uniquely modified through its authorised external vendor, during the Indo-Pacific Armies Chief’s Conference (IPACC) held on 26th – 27th September in New Delhi. Hosted by the Army Design Bureau, Indian Army, in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), the Defence Equipment and Technology Display coincides with the Indo-Pacific Armies Chief’s Conference (IPACC), Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS), and Senior Enlisted Leadership Forum (SELF). Alongside, a general-purpose Hilux was also on display at this important summit.
Toyota’s participation in this high-profiled forum, reflects its commitment to providing innovative solutions, with its technological strengths, in the critical areas of defence and capable of serving other special customer requirements. In line with this approach, TKM showcased the versatile Hilux at IPACC, through the Hilux Toyota Service Express (TSE) – Mobile Service Vehicle thereby illustrating the adaptations made to the meticulously modified Hilux by Toyota’s authorized external vendor, that can offer robust solution for remote location service and repair needs apt for army usage.
Recently Toyota displayed two modified (with the support of an authorised external vendor) Hilux vehicles – Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) and Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) at the North Tech Symposium organised by Northern Command of Indian Army. To elaborate, the FDV offers vital vehicle servicing while the RIV is equipped for firefighting and rescue operations during emergency situations.
With Toyota’s legendary QDR (Quality, Durability and Reliability), this 4×4 all-terrain mountain off-road vehicle is engineered to excel in the harshest of environments, making it an ideal choice for varied customers with specific necessity as well as Indian army purposes. The purpose of TSE Hilux is aligned with such utilities offered by FDV & RIV Hilux which are designed to provide essential services in remote locations and during unexpected scenarios, thereby supporting the Army at defence sites. With a focus on periodic maintenance and offering a one-stop solution for various maintenance tasks, this modified Hilux (via authorised external vendor of Toyota) is designed to meet demanding purposes, be it servicing equipment in remote areas or conducting essential repairs, demonstrating its adaptability and reliability in critical operations as in case of defence sector, thus always ensuring operational readiness and efficiency. During July this year, TKM handed over a fleet of Hilux, marking the company’s first-ever delivery of its Hilux to the Indian Army.
Sharing his views, Mr. V. Wiseline Sigamani, General Manager – Strategic Business Unit (North) of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “Marking yet another remarkable demonstration, Toyota is proud to display a uniquely designed Hilux, modified through an authorised external vendor, during the Indo-Pacific Armies Chief’s Conference (IPACC). This platform allows us to showcase our technological prowess in offering cutting-edge solutions to meet varied customers’ special vehicle needs. We are immensely honoured with this great opportunity to present our customised Hilux especially that can serve the Indian army purposes, which is a testament to our resolute commitment in providing unique solutions with versatility.
Notably, the iconic Hilux is celebrated for its exceptional off-road capabilities, unmatched reliability, powerful performance, and advanced safety features. Looking forward, we are steadfast in our commitment to tailoring our Hilux offerings to precisely serve the special mobility purposes including defence.”
Needless to mention, in response to the increasing demand for 4×4 SUVs in India, the Toyota Hilux has garnered significant acclaim, thanks to its appealing design and outstanding driving comfort. Furthermore, TKM had recently announced its exclusive 4X4 drives, titled ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota’ providing specially curated off-roading experience, which is designed to connect with 4×4 enthusiasts and unleash the true potential of their 4×4 SUVs, including the iconic Hilux. The inaugural ‘Great 4×4 Expedition by Toyota’ kicked off with a zonal drive in South India in May 2023, followed by the West and North regional expeditions in September 2023. These expeditions provide 4X4 enthusiasts with thrilling adventures and foster a sense of community camaraderie. This journey is set to continue in the Eastern zone as well, offering enthusiasts more opportunities to explore and experience the capabilities of their 4X4 SUVs.
About Toyota Hilux:
Globally, Toyota’s Hilux has exceeded the remarkable milestone of 20 million units in sales, capturing the hearts of discerning customers from across 180 countries and more. Over the span of five decades and eight generations, the Toyota Hilux has forged extraordinary connections and unbreakable bonds with those who seek exhilarating drives be it off-road, on-road and or daily commute. The Toyota Hilux cater to the diverse needs of its customers, offering the versatility of a utility vehicle that excels not only in conquering challenging off-road terrains but also in seamlessly navigating the urban landscape. It serves as a dependable companion for emerging business use, functioning as a campervan, supporting agriculture, defence, mining, construction, and even stepping in as a rescue vehicle, among other versatile applications.
The Hilux boasts a robust powertrain featuring a 2.8-liter Four-Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Engine, and customers can choose between a 6-Speed Automatic and a 6-Speed Manual Transmission. Beyond its impressive array of features and powerful engine, the Hilux is renowned for its exceptional durability, cost-effective maintenance, and practicality across a wide spectrum of applications. Notably, the Hilux’s remarkable water wading capacity of 700mm positions it as the ideal choice for conquering rugged Indian trails, setting a new standard for off-road capability.
Overview of TKM
| Equity participation | Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) : 89%, Kirloskar Systems Limited (India) : 11% |
| Number of employees | Approx. 6,000 |
| Land area | Approx. 432 acres (approx.1,700,000 m2) |
| Building area | 74,000 m2 |
| Total Installed Production capacity | Up to 3,42,000 units |
Overview of TKM 1st Plant:
| Established | October 1997 (start of production: December 1999) |
| Location | Bidadi |
| Products | Innova HyCross, Innova Crysta , Fortuner, Legender manufactured in India. |
| Installed Production capacity | Up to 1,32,000 units |
Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:
| Start of Production | December 2010 |
| Location | On the site of Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited, Bidadi |
| Products | Camry Hybrid, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hilux |
| Installed Production capacity | Up to 2,10,000 units |
