Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) unveiled two customized Toyota Hilux vehicles at the East Tech 2023 (ET2023) event, organized by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Government of Assam. This annual event is dedicated to promoting indigenous development and production of defense technology, with a focus on achieving self-reliance in the defense sector. This year, the event emphasized synergy, research and development, and innovation to modernize the Indian Army.
Through extensive market research, TKM, in partnership with an authorized external vendor, adapted the versatile Hilux to meet the specific mobility requirements of the Indian Army. The modifications resulted in two unique vehicles – the Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) and the Forest Patrolling Vehicle (FPV). These vehicles address the Indian Army’s operational and logistical challenges, including diverse terrain and climatic conditions.The Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) is designed to provide essential vehicle servicing in remote locations, supporting the Army at defense sites. Meanwhile, the Forest Patrolling Vehicle (FPV) aids in patrolling movements, surveillance, and is equipped with features like fog lamps for nighttime visibility, digital video recording, and a winch for rescue operations during emergencies.
In addition to these specialized versions, the standard Hilux was also showcased at the Expo held on October 10-11 at the Mani Ram Dewan Trade Centre in Guwahati. Earlier in 2023, TKM delivered a fleet of Toyota Hilux vehicles to the Indian Army for the first time. In September, Toyota also exhibited two modified Hilux vehicles at the North Tech Symposium, further demonstrating its commitment to meeting the unique mobility needs of special customers, including the army, and contributing to self-reliance in the defense sector.
