2025 Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive: How the 48V Mild-Hybrid System Works

Time of India

09-06-2025

Toyota Kirloskar Motor
recently launched the 2025 Toyota Fortuner with
mild-hybrid technology
. The mild-hybrid tech is available in both the standard Fortuner and the Legender with prices starting from Rs 44.72 lakh and Rs 50.09 lakh (ex-showroom, respectively). Interested customers can book the SUV online or by visiting their nearest Toyota dealership, with deliveries set to begin in the third week of June.
Toyota India calls it 'Neo Drive', a label also used for the mild-hybrid versions of the Hyryder and Glanza. Talking about the engine, the Fortuner continue to get tried and tested 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine which puts out 204hp of power and 500Nm torque. A 48V mild-hybrid system has been added to the diesel engine, incorporating a belt-driven starter generator and lithium-ion battery. It brings auto start-stop capability for better mileage and contributes to refined low-speed performance and reduced cabin noise. So how exactly does this system work?
This mild-hybrid system was first introduced in South Africa back in 2023 with a
Toyota Hilux
pickup. And later in April 2024, the Fortuner with the same tech was launched in South Africa. In India, the Fortuner Neo Drive gets the same tech with a
2.8-litre diesel engine
found in the Hilux, along with a
48V hybrid system
comprising a lithium-ion battery, motor generator, and DC-DC converter. Under the Neo Drive system, the Fortuner uses an 8.5kW/85Nm permanent magnet synchronous motor. While peak output remains at 204hp and 500Nm, the hybrid assist enhances performance during low-speed driving. The Hilux and Fortuner in South Africa, meanwhile, benefit from a more powerful 12kW (16hp) unit.
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Toyota also claims that the Neo Drive system will improve
fuel efficiency
by around five per cent and this gain primarily comes from
regenerative braking
, which captures energy typically lost during deceleration. The efficiency is further boosted by a 20% drop in engine idling speed—from 720rpm to 600rpm. The drivers can also customise the start-stop system to prefer either a standard or extended stop; in the extended setting, air conditioning operation is also enhanced.
The 48V battery, made up of 13 cells and weighing 7kg, is located beneath the seat, while the DC-DC converter is positioned inside the cabin for protection. The motor generator is mounted high to avoid water exposure, and the belt-drive system has been specially reinforced for off-road durability. A dual-arm tensioner minimises noise and vibration, while the ribbed belt incorporates a high-strength cotton fabric to further suppress noise levels.
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