Toyota Clarifies: Mild Hybrids Are Not True Hybrids

The Japanese automaker explains why 48V systems should not be considered full hybrids, even though the Land Cruiser is marketed as a Hybrid 48V.

For decades, choosing a car’s powertrain was simple: gasoline or diesel. However, in the past twenty years, technology and emissions regulations have introduced a flood of acronyms such as MHEV, HEV, PHEV, EV/BEV, REEV, and FCEV, making the choice more complicated and confusing for buyers less familiar with automotive terminology.

Mild Hybrid vs. True Hybrid

Sean Hanley, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Toyota Australia, made it clear to Drive that 48-volt mild hybrid (MHEV) systems should not be considered true hybrids: “In our opinion, a 48-volt system does not constitute hybrid propulsion. We do not consider 48 volts to be an HEV. They are not hybrids, not even remotely.” According to Hanley, it is the responsibility of manufacturers to clarify terminology so that customers understand exactly what they are buying.

The confusion is compounded because Toyota, ironically, markets some of these vehicles as Hybrid 48V in certain regions. In Spain, for instance, the Toyota Land Cruiser with a 48V mild hybrid system appears on the configurator as Hybrid 48V, rather than “Mild Hybrid” or “MHEV,” which can mislead users who do not understand the technical nuance.

For enthusiasts and buyers, the distinction is important: a mild hybrid cannot operate solely on electric power, as its electric motor only assists the combustion engine during starts and energy recovery. This clearly differentiates it from a HEV or PHEV, which can drive in fully electric mode for certain distances.

Ultimately, Toyota aims to be transparent and educate the public on what a true hybrid really means, preventing customers from assuming that any vehicle with light electric assistance qualifies as a full hybrid. The clarification emphasizes that not all “green” systems are equal, and that 48V is merely a support system, not a complete hybrid drivetrain.