Toyota's Hydrogen-Powered GR Corolla: Racing Towards Carbon Neutrality
Key Ideas
- Enhanced durability of the liquid hydrogen pump is a key feature of the new Toyota GR Corolla, aimed at lasting the full 24-hour race without replacements.
- The custom-shaped tank design increases cruising range by efficiently utilizing space, with the aim of doubling the amount of hydrogen on board.
- Toyota's inclusion of automated CO₂ capture technology in the 2024 Fuji Super TEC race eliminates the need for manual intervention, enhancing efficiency.
- Liquid hydrogen offers advantages over compressed gas, providing higher energy density and storage under normal pressure, boosting performance and range.
Toyota is gearing up for the Super Taikyu Fuji Super TEC 24 Hours Race with the hydrogen-powered GR Corolla. The #32 ORC ROOKIE GR Corolla H2 Concept boasts features like enhanced durability of the liquid hydrogen pump and a custom-shaped tank for an extended cruising range. Toyota aims to gather valuable insights from the race to further refine the system. The engine has undergone improvements to enhance the pressure of the liquid hydrogen fuel and avoid frequent replacements during the race. The new oval-shaped tank design allows for a more efficient use of space, doubling the onboard hydrogen amount. Furthermore, automated CO₂ capture technology has been incorporated, streamlining the process for mechanics. Comparing race specs from 2022 to 2024, the transition to liquid hydrogen brings advantages in fuel type, tank capacity, hydrogen volume, number of laps, and range. Liquid hydrogen offers higher energy density and storage convenience under normal pressure, providing a competitive edge. Despite challenges such as fuel pump wear and efficiency concerns, Toyota remains optimistic about hydrogen engines' development. The push for carbon neutrality drives Toyota to continuously innovate in the automotive industry, balancing between electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.