Toyota's Hydrogen Innovation in Motorsports: A Sustainable Step Forward
Key Ideas
- Toyota has developed a concept model to utilize boil-off gas, a byproduct of liquid hydrogen systems, to increase energy efficiency.
- The concept involves a self-pressuriser that converts boil-off gas released from liquid hydrogen into reusable fuel for the engine, without additional energy use.
- Surplus boil-off gas is also used to generate electricity through a fuel cell stack, powering components like the liquid hydrogen pump and improving energy efficiency.
- Unutilized boil-off gas is converted into water vapor through a catalyst and safely released outside the vehicle.
Toyota has introduced a groundbreaking concept model aimed at enhancing the efficiency of liquid hydrogen as an engine fuel by harnessing 'boil-off gas,' which is vaporized hydrogen generated during driving. This innovation was recently showcased at the 2024 ENEOS Super Taikyu race series in Japan, where a GR Corolla powered by liquid hydrogen participated. The concept addresses the issue of 'boil-off,' where the fuel stored in a tank evaporates due to external heat, by proposing a method to utilize the generated gas. Through a self-pressuriser, the boil-off gas can be converted into reusable fuel for the engine without requiring additional energy. Additionally, surplus gas is used to produce electricity via a fuel cell stack, contributing to powering vehicle components like the liquid hydrogen pump. Any remaining unutilized gas is converted into water vapor and safely released outside. Toyota's initiative not only aims to enhance energy efficiency but also signifies a step toward sustainable practices in the automotive industry.