The best vehicle for electricians in Australia needs to factor in the extreme weather and demands of their jobs. From salt air and heavy rains to extreme heat and dust, finding a vehicle as tough as the environment is critical. For sparkies in the big cities, smaller vans or utes with parking sensors and rear cameras can help navigate heavy traffic and tight parking spaces. Australians further afield often need off-road capabilities, such as 4WD or AWD, to handle unsealed roads and outback terrain.
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Not sure what to pick? Check out:
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- The Best Towing Utes
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1. Ford Ranger
In 2023, the Ford Ranger became Australia’s best-selling vehicle, with a record-breaking 63,356 units sold. With its reputation as one of the most reliable vehicles on the market, the Ranger's high-strength steel frame, solid rear axle, and turbocharged engine make it the ultimate workhorse. Its tow-haul drive mode optimises its gear shifts for better power delivery and engine braking, perfect for towing tools and equipment. The Ford Ranger line-up includes various models such as the XL, XLS, XLT, Sport, Wildtrak, Platinum, and Raptor. A Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) version is expected to join the range in 2025.
Models
Ranger XL
The XL is an excellent option for electricians who need a no-nonsense, reliable vehicle for work. Its 3500kg towing capacity and simple features make it ideal for carrying tools and equipment, and the basic tech and vinyl flooring make it easy to hose off at the end of the workday. As a budget-friendly model, the Ranger XL offers all the power of the series without the extra frills and whistles.
Ranger XLS
The XLS builds on the XL with better performance and additional comfort features. Its powerful bi-turbo engine (154kW, 500Nm of torque), makes it a solid choice for sparkies who need to tow heavy loads of gear (or the boat on the weekends). The slight tech upgrades in the dash provide a touch of luxury without going overboard.
Ranger XLT
The XLT is perfect for electricians who want all the power and comfort of a Ranger, alongside the additional comfort of a top-quality sound system and larger infotainment system. The available 3.0-litre V6 engine (184kW, 600Nm) provides grunty towing and power for heavier equipment or trailers, while the adaptive cruise control, dual-zone climate control, and a larger infotainment system make the XLT perfect for the discerning electrician.
Ranger features:
- Braked towing capacity: 3500kg (Raptor: 2500kg)
- Unbraked towing capacity: 750kg
- Engine power: 184kW (V6), Torque: 600Nm
- Kerb weight range: 1789-2431kg
- Trailer sway control: Yes
- 4x4 off-road capability: Full-time 4x4 on V6 models with automatic traction adjustment.
- Fuel economy: 7.2L/100km for the 2.0L twin-turbo, up to 8.4L/100km for the 3.0L V6
- Accessories: Tray liners, ladder racks, canopies, and powered roller shutters.
- Technology: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Ford SYNC, and surround-view camera options on higher trims.
- Safety features: Lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and trailer sway control.
2. Toyota Hilux
For Aussie sparkies going offroad, the Toyota Hilux range offers the perfect mix of toughness and dependability. Powered by a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, the Hilux offers no-fuss durability, boasting a payload capacity of up to 1240kg.
Models
Toyota Hilux WorkMate
The WorkMate is perfect for electricians who need a straightforward, durable vehicle. Its tough build and vinyl flooring make it ideal for handling tools, equipment, and messy job sites. The high payload capacity (up to 1240kg) and towing capacity (up to 3500kg) are great for carrying and towing gear, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.
Toyota Hilux SR
The SR offers more flexibility with different cab options including Single, Extra, and Double-Cab sizes. Its alloy wheels, side steps, and improved off-road capability are ideal for those working in remote or rugged locations. With a durable interior and better features, it's a step up in comfort without losing its tough workhorse nature.
Toyota Hilux SR5
The SR5 adds a layer of comfort and tech to an already rugged vehicle, making it a strong choice for electricians who spend a lot of time driving between jobs. The 2.8L turbo-diesel engine (150kW, 500Nm of torque) and 3500kg towing capacity make it powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks. Features like dual-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay, and additional safety options (360-degree camera, parking sensors) give the SR5 an additional luxury feel.
Hilux features
- Braked towing capacity: 3500kg
- Unbraked towing capacity: 750kg
- Engine options: 2.8L turbo-diesel (150kW/500Nm)
- Fuel economy: 7.9L/100km combined (SR5)
- Payload: Up to 1240kg
- Technology: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera (SR5 and above).
- Off-road capabilities: Available 4x4 and part-time 4WD options with low-range gearing.
- Accessories: Available on models like the Rogue and GR Sport with steel bullbars, LED lights, and improved off-road suspension.
3. Isuzu D-Max Ute
Known for its durability and off-road capability, the D-Max is a reliable choice for both work and play. It is available in multiple body styles, including single-cab, extra-cab, and dual-cab configurations, with either 4x2 or 4x4 options. Isuzu has a solid reputation for building trucks and their utes remain a strong choice for tradies. The D-Max excels in off-road conditions, making it ideal for remote job sites.
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Models
D-Max SX
The entry-level SX is perfect for tradies looking for a robust and affordable ute. It’s powered by either a 1.9L turbo-diesel engine (110kW/350Nm) or a 3.0L turbo-diesel engine (140kW/450Nm). The SX is available in single-cab, extra-cab, and dual-cab configurations, with towing capacities of up to 3500kg on the larger engine models. It also features standard tech such as Apple CarPlay and a solid 7.7L/100km fuel economy for the larger engine.
D-Max LS-M
The LS-M is a step up, designed for tradies who like a touch of extra comfort. This model offers 17-inch alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and improved interior trims. With a braked towing capacity of 3500kg and the 3.0L turbo-diesel engine, it’s ideal for those regularly towing heavy loads. The LS-M also features all-terrain tyres, making it more capable for off-road or rough job sites.
D-Max X-Terrain
At the top of the D-Max range, the X-Terrain is the most luxurious model. It includes 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-accented interior with red stitching, a lockable roller tonneau cover, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. The 3.0L turbo-diesel engine and a braked towing capacity of 3500kg make it a formidable choice for off-road and towing needs. This model also features safety systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
D-Max Features
- Engine options: 1.9L turbo-diesel (110kW/350Nm) or 3.0L turbo-diesel (140kW/450Nm)
- Towing capacity: Up to 3500kg (braked) with the 3.0L engine
- Fuel economy: Ranges between 6.7L/100km to 8.0L/100km depending on the model
- Technology: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 8-inch infotainment system in higher models
- Safety features: Autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and trailer sway control
- Interior comfort: Available leather-accented seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium trims in higher models like the X-Terrain.
4. Hyundai Staria
Always dreamt of arriving at work in a spaceship? The Hyundai Staria is a futuristic, versatile van available in both commercial load and people mover configurations. It combines cutting-edge technology with the practicality of a van. The Staria offers spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and a sleek exterior design with a distinctive one-curve silhouette. With both diesel and petrol engine options, the Staria caters to long-distance hauls or daily commutes.
Models
Hyundai Staria Load (Commercial Van)
The Hyundai Staria Load is a commercial van, offering ample cargo space and high-tech features for efficiency and convenience.
Available in 2-seat and 5-seat configurations, the Staria Load 2S is powered by a 2.2L turbo-diesel engine (130kW/430Nm) with front-wheel drive and a fuel efficiency of 7.0L/100km, making it perfect for transporting tools and equipment. It includes dual sliding doors, an 8-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 17-inch steel wheels.
The Staria Load 5S adds a second row of seats for mixed cargo and passenger transport.
The Staria Load Premium enhances the driving experience with LED headlights, a powered tailgate, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, keyless entry, and a Blind Spot View Monitor.
Hyundai Staria (People Mover)
The Hyundai Staria is a versatile people mover with seating for up to eight passengers, with both front-wheel drive petrol and all-wheel drive diesel options.
The Staria Base Model offers a choice between a 2.2L turbo diesel (130kW/430Nm) with a fuel efficiency of 8.2L/100km or a 3.5L V6 petrol (200kW/331Nm) with 10.5L/100km and includes modern tech like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and essential safety features such as Lane Keeping Assist and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.
The Staria Elite adds luxury with leather-appointed seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, satellite navigation, and dual-zone climate control, while the Staria Highlander takes it further with features like a dual power sunroof, ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and LED headlights. These models provide a perfect mix of space, comfort, and tech, making them ideal for electricians who need both passenger capacity and functionality for diverse work environments.
Hyundai Staria features
- Engine options: 2.2L turbo-diesel (130kW/430Nm) or 3.5L V6 petrol (200kW/331Nm)
- Towing capacity: Up to 2500kg (braked)
- Fuel economy: Ranges between 7.0L/100km (diesel) and 10.5L/100km (petrol)
- Technology: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 8-inch infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital cluster in premium models
- Safety features: Hyundai SmartSense™ suite with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot View Monitor, and adaptive cruise control
- Interior comfort: Leather seats, dual power sunroof, ventilated and heated seats, and dual-zone climate control in higher models like the Highlander
5. Toyota HiAce
The 2024 Toyota HiAce is a dependable workhorse. Known for its durability and best-in-class resale value, the HiAce offers multiple configurations including LWB (Long Wheelbase) and SLWB (Super Long Wheelbase). The latest model features an improved 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, advanced driver assistance systems, and a spacious cargo area.
Models
Toyota HiAce LWB (Long Wheelbase)
The LWB variant is ideal for city driving and light commercial use. Powered by a 2.8L turbo diesel engine producing 130kW of power and up to 450Nm of torque (420Nm for the manual), it comes with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Offering a cargo capacity of 6.2 cubic meters and fuel efficiency of 7.4L/100km (manual), it also boasts a towing capacity of 1900kg (braked). Key features include a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, Toyota Connected Services with 1-year complimentary access, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with voice command functionality.
Toyota HiAce SLWB (Super Long Wheelbase)
The SLWB variant provides significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for electricians requiring maximum storage capacity and long-haul capabilities. It shares the same 2.8L turbo diesel engine as the LWB, with options for a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. With a cargo capacity of 9.3 cubic meters, it can handle larger loads. Key features include a towing capacity of 1900kg (braked), additional space for cargo and optional crew seating for up to five passengers, and advanced safety features such as a wide-angle rear camera.
Toyota HiAce features
- Engine: 2.8L Turbo Diesel.
- Max Power: 130kW (Auto) / 130kW (Manual).
- Max Torque: 450Nm (Auto) / 420Nm (Manual).
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or manual.
- Fuel Efficiency: 7.4L/100km (manual) on LWB variant.
- Towing Capacity: 1900kg (braked).
- Cargo Capacity:
- LWB: 6.2 cubic meters.
- SLWB: 9.3 cubic meters.
- Safety Features:
- Toyota Safety Sense: Includes Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, and a Pre-Collision Safety System with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- Parking Sensors and Reversing Cameras with moving guidelines.
- Wide-angle rearview camera for improved visibility during reversing.
- Toyota Connected Services: Complimentary for 1 year, providing additional safety and security features.
- Technology: Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ with voice commands, Bluetooth, and USB charging ports.
- Comfort: Optional rear passenger air conditioning, and wide-angle rearview mirrors.
- Resale Value: The HiAce holds its value well over time, offering the best resale value in the light commercial vehicle category.
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