By Sizwe Dlamini
Motoring enthusiasts were well catered for at the 2024 Standard Bank Luju & Lifestyle Festival, where prominent automotive brands showcased their latest innovations.
NTT Toyota used the event to showcase their new hybrid models, with the spotlight on the Toyota Hilux Double Cab Hybrid, featuring a 48-volt electric system.
Khizitha Dube from NTT Toyota highlighted that the festival was the perfect platform to showcase their cutting-edge hybrid technology.
“We are thrilled to present our new hybrid engine models, which integrate an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, all mated to a single gearbox for a smooth driving experience. The system enables the vehicle to operate in electric-only mode for short distances, with the petrol engine engaging during acceleration,” Dube explained.
He elaborated on the benefits of the hybrid system, saying, “It’s an excellent solution for saving fuel and reducing emissions, making the vehicle more environmentally friendly. Our system allows you to start the car and drive in electric-only mode, keeping the vehicle silent. When you stop at a traffic light, the engine automatically shuts off and restarts when you accelerate away, operating in the mode you’ve set. This is a very smart piece of kit and this feature is particularly appreciated in stop-and-start traffic by Toyota customers in South Africa who have to deal with a lot of stop-start traffic. The electric engine is recharged by the combustion engine via regenerative braking. It’s truly a seamless experience.”
“The response at our showrooms in Mbabane and Manzini has been outstanding. Customers are enthusiastic, and we anticipate launching fully electric models in Eswatini very soon. This is the future of driving and we invite people to visit our showrooms. We believe it will attract environmentally conscious buyers to the Toyota brand in Eswatini,” he added.