On April 6, Toyota presented details on the brand’s latest hybrid technology to 38 MAMA members via Zoom. MAMA VP Rob Duffer introduced Jordan Choby, VP of Powertrain Controls at Toyota. 

The i-FORCE MAX hybrid system debuts on the new 2022 Toyota Tundra, providing the beefy truck with impressive horsepower and torque. The mission, Choby said, was to make the Tundra a “premium towing machine.” In the early days of development, the idea of a hybrid truck made people nervous, and the Toyota team was determined that they “don’t want a Prius truck.” The solution? Step up the Tundra’s luxury features and “double down on towing,” ensuring the new Tundra retains – or strengthens – its reputation within the large truck segment. 

Choby said the i-FORCE MAX architecture is very modular, designed to be used with different engines and transmissions, with the goal of increasing electrification in the brand’s stable. It will be the sole powertrain on the redesigned 2023 Sequoia SUV. The system drives “powerfully and naturally,” according to Choby, and as the Tundra was designed specifically for the North American market, the team branched out into more areas of the country to evaluate its performance in different environments.

Keep an eye out for the Toyota Tundra, GR Supra, and GR86, as well as other Toyota and Lexus models, at the MAMA Spring Rally in May!

Key specs and features of the 2022 Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX include:

• Twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine paired to a motor generator system located between the engine and 10-speed automatic transmission

• 437 horsepower (an increase of 48 horsepower over the non-hybrid i-FORCE model)

• 583 pound-feet of torque (an increase of 104 pound-feet over the non-hybrid i-FORCE model)

• Maximum towing capacity of 11,350 pounds

• Fuel economy ratings of up to 19 mpg city/22 highway/21 combined in 4x4 models