Toyota Australia has initiated a confidential collaboration with the Walkinshaw Group to explore and evaluate a hydrogen-fuelled combustion-engined Toyota Tundra pick-up, with potential plans to enter the competitive American pick-up truck market. As part of this endeavor, Walkinshaw is currently conducting tests on right-hand drive versions of the Toyota Tundra adapted for the Australian market. Simultaneously, Toyota Australia is conducting a groundbreaking pilot program involving a hydrogen-fuelled Toyota HiAce van to validate the commercial viability of this technology. Unlike traditional hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), the Hydrogen HiAce runs on a hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-litre petrol V6, which is also utilized in various Toyota and Lexus models. The project aims to integrate this hydrogen ICE technology into the high-spec Australian-market Tundra, potentially offering a more eco-friendly alternative in the pick-up truck segment. Toyota officials have expressed optimism about the prospects of hydrogen ICE technology, particularly highlighting its suitability for vehicles like the Tundra, HiLux, and LandCruiser due to their high towing and loading capabilities. The company sees hydrogen ICE as a cost-effective solution compared to battery-electric powertrains, with potential emissions reductions through the use of synthetic fuel. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia's vice-president, emphasized the importance of providing diverse eco-friendly solutions beyond battery-electric vehicles, especially for customers with specific requirements like long-range driving and heavy towing needs. The development of hydrogen ICE technology signifies Toyota's commitment to investing in a range of sustainable technologies for future mobility solutions, aiming to offer customers compelling and affordable alternatives in the evolving automotive landscape.