HKS’ Hiace is based on the concept of “Multi-Energy”

At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 held from January 12 to 14, 2024, HKS was the theme for “Tune the Next.” Along with demo cars such as the Nissan R35 “GT-R,” Toyota “GR86,” and Lexus “LM,” the “Multi-Energy” Toyota “Hiace”.

PHV with engine for power generation and full motor drive

“Multi-Energy” refers to a vehicle that can run on a variety of fuel sources, including “liquid,” “gas,” and “electric power,” and while HKS has previously developed bi-fuel system kits that enable the use of natural gas or LP gas in combination with gasoline as reserve fuel, we have further evolved these kits to create the “Multi-Energy” Toyota Hiace. HKS has also developed a bi-fuel system kit that can run on liquid fuels such as gasoline, gaseous fuels such as CNG and LPG, and even a PHV system.

This one vehicle dubbed the “HKS e-Hiace Multi-Energy Concept,” has an HV conversion kit currently under development installed, and the stock engine itself is used only for power generation. The driving power itself is provided by a motor. Two motors, one for power generation and the other for driving are installed in the space originally occupied by the transmission, and the 25 kWh battery, fuel tank, CNG tank, etc. are all housed under the floor.

With a body the size of a Hiace, the BEV has a range of approximately 150 km with a 25 kWh battery (the Nissan Sakura, by the way, has a 20 kWh battery), and the PHV can travel 400 to 450 km with a full tank of fuel and a full charge.

The PHV can use CN (carbon neutral) fuel as well as gasoline. It can also run on gaseous fuels such as natural gas and LPG, and because it is a plug-in hybrid, it can be recharged at EV charging stations.

It can also be used as a power supply vehicle

As for usage, it is ideal as a transporter, cargo, or even as a camper. However, the HKS e-Hiace Multi-Energy Concept has a 25kWh battery under the floor, so the factory air conditioner can run all night long with the engine off. The advantage is that the interior can be used more spaciously!

In case of an emergency or power outage, the vehicle can also be used as a power supply vehicle; a family of four is said to consume about 10 kWh of electricity per day, so a 25 kWh battery would last for two or three days. If gasoline or gas is available, the battery can continue to charge and supply power for a longer period.

Carbon-neutral race fuel has also been developed

In this way, the HKS e-Hiace Multi-Energy Concept is a serious effort by HKS, a leading company in the tuning industry, to create a sustainable world, a “carbon neutral (CN) society,” using the technology it has cultivated in the production of aftermarket parts.

On the other hand, “CNR FUEL” developed by HKS is not only carbon neutral and environmentally friendly, but also a next-generation race fuel that improves engine output, and the HKS e-Hiace Multi-Energy Concept is linked to the sustainable enjoyment of tuning the car. HKS e-Hiace Multi-Energy Concept is not only environmentally friendly, but also sustains the enjoyment of tuning the car with next-generation race fuel that increases engine output.