SEA to convert 8500 Hilux and Land Cruiser utes to electric

SEA Electric has landed a deal with Mevco to convert 8500 Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser utes to EVs for the mining industry.

The deal, valued at $AU1 billion ($NZ1.08 billion), will see the Australian EV specialist deliver 8500 units over the next five years to replace diesel-powered vehicles used in mining operations.

Each conversion will take place at SEA Electric’s Dandenong facility which aims to convert up to 4000 vehicles per year.

New Hilux and Land Cruisers will be used in the process, which will have their internal combustion engine removed and replaced with an electric motor and battery.

Their purpose is to eliminate the output of carbon dioxide, methane, or nitrous oxide in an enclosed environment.

“The switch to EV provides a comfortable work environment, with health and safety considerations including no noise, fumes, heat, or vibrations,” states SEA Electric.

Both models will be offered in various mining-specific designs including two- and four-wheel drive configurations, as well as the choice of two battery options including an 88kWh unit providing up to 380km of range, or a 60kWh battery providing up to 260km.

Fast charging via a DC charger is available for either battery which is said to provide an 80 per cent charge in less than one hour.

It isn’t clear whether the vehicles will be delivered directly from Toyota or sourced from local dealerships.

Demonstration models of the electric Hilux and Land Cruiser utes are available in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth with over half of the 2023 allocation being pre-sold.