Video link doesn't work - is this the one?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hsc7xrAtv7E

Here's a real world review from NZ:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZIl_KdNMyI

I think it's cool that commercial trucks are starting to use clean technology, but I have to wonder how much damage the diesel engine sustains from constant start/stop cycles and temperature fluctuations.

Also, for a truck taken into the mountains - how much assist will the power pack provide for sustained climbs? Enough to help climb a 20 minute grade, or will the assist disappear before you reach the top? That would be irritating.

I'm interested in the Canter 4wd as a base for an expedition vehicle. While regenerative braking would be neat off pavement (if the tires didn't skid!), this Eco version would be the LAST truck on my list, since the systems are so complicated and computerized a field repair would be impossible.

JD

@ John Davies -- Thanks for the catch. Should be fixed now.

It is really ashame that Toyota does not utilize Hino's expertise and push the Tundra up into class 2 and 3 at least. Of course that truck is in dire need of restyling before sales could be expected to improve.

It seems that there is absolutly no connection between Toyota trucks and Hino outside of corporate ownership.

@Big Bob
I agree with youon some points and I also disgree with you on some points. Rule number 1 says the customer is always right so with that said your comment about needing restyling is a must along with a better ride and better fuel economy. As far as moving up in class I disagree because a lot of 1/2 ton pick up buyers only consider the big 3 for pickups so for HD pickups I think the sales numbers would be worse than 1/2 tons. The further Toyota gets from the Tacoma the more it will cost to design and build and the fewer trucks they will sell.

Nice to see Mitsubishi still kicking I guess. I wonder how this compares to Ford's hybrid 650/750

@Tom With a Ranger Fuso is being updated by Daimler(Mercedes) in Asia. They sell the small Canter , MDT's and very HDT trucks.

@ Big Bob

The Tundra has a Hino rear axle.

Looking at he cost of hybrid technology and the complexities involved in design, they will always be quite expensive alternatives. These vehicles will only survive with government subisidies.

Lithium is not found in large enough quantities to replace a huge amount of vehicles globally.

The reason for the high cost is the use of existing and future internal combustion technology in conjunction with electrical systems will have to double costs of manufacture.

We will revert back to the "Olden Day" of the 19th century. Goods will be transported via rail and a delivery system will evolve in every town. Then one day someone will design a Model T Electro delivery van (China). Then the Chinese built Great Wall levitating pickup will be here :)

5.3L LOL - I know 2 guys that had Tundras that said they would of bought a 3/4 ton version. They went to the domestics because they had no other choice.

@Lou
I hear you and I like the idea myself and on Tundra forums other Tundra guys feel that way but I just don't see it being very profitable for Toyota to make a HD Tundra just to sell to Tundra guys. One thing to figure out is how many customers would leave their Duramax, Cummins and Powerstroke's for a Tundra HD. I think for the most part a Tundra HD would just end up splitting the current Tundra's sales more than adding to it.

@5.3LOL - Toyota had looked at the HD market and did have plans on entering it. I think that when they released the current Tundra they grossly underestimated how loyal traditional truck buyers were. I'd like to see an upgraded Tundra with more options.