Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recently unveiled two special-purpose Toyota Hilux vehicles, which were modified in collaboration with an authorized external vendor, at the East Tech 2023 (ET2023) event. ET2023 is an annual technology showcase organized by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army in partnership with the Government of Assam, aimed at fostering indigenous defense technology development and production to achieve self-reliance in the defense sector.TKM conducted an extensive market survey to better understand the specific mobility requirements of various consumers, including the Indian Army. As a result, TKM and its authorized external vendor made specific modifications to the versatile Hilux, catering to diverse needs and meeting the Indian Army’s requirements.
These vehicles reflect TKM’s commitment to offering tailored solutions to address unique customer needs, particularly for military applications, and supporting evolving mobility needs across different markets.Two distinct modifications were introduced to the Toyota Hilux: the Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) and the Forest Patrolling Vehicle (FPV). The FDV was designed to provide essential vehicle servicing in remote locations, supporting the Army at defense sites. Meanwhile, the FPV aids the Indian Army in patrolling, surveillance, and is equipped with features such as fog lamps for improved night vision, digital video recording, and a winch for emergency rescue operations.
In addition to the modified versions, the general-purpose Hilux was also showcased at the Expo held from October 10-11 at the Mani Ram Dewan Trade Centre in Guwahati. In July 2023, TKM delivered a fleet of Toyota Hilux vehicles to the Indian Army for the first time. Furthermore, in September 2023, Toyota displayed two additional modified Hilux vehicles, the Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) and the Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV), at the North Tech Symposium organized by the Northern Command of the Indian Army. These initiatives reflect Toyota’s commitment to supporting the Indian Army’s operational and logistic needs in diverse terrains and climatic conditions.
