Toyota Innovates Repressurization Technology for Liquid Hydrogen Fuel Systems
Key Ideas
- Toyota showcased a prototype technology at the Eneos Super Taikyu Series that collects and repressurizes boil-off hydrogen, enhancing the sustainability of hydrogen power.
- The repressurization system utilizes a self-pressurizer device powered by a miniature fuel cell stack to convert waste gas into electricity for the liquid hydrogen pump.
- This innovation not only improves energy efficiency in racing powertrains but also hints at potential applications beyond racing, such as in Toyota's fuel cells for trucks.
- By addressing efficiency issues related to liquid hydrogen, such advancements could pave the way for its wider adoption due to its higher energy density and range potential.
In a demonstration of their commitment to hydrogen power, Toyota introduced a groundbreaking repressurization technology for liquid hydrogen fuel systems at the Eneos Super Taikyu Series. The GE Corolla H2 Concept, equipped with a hydrogen internal combustion engine fueled by liquid hydrogen, featured a system that could collect and repressurize hydrogen boil-off that is typically wasted during operations. This innovative system incorporates a self-pressurizer device that utilizes a miniature fuel cell stack to convert the boil-off gas into electricity, which in turn powers the liquid hydrogen pump for repressurization.
The development by Toyota marks a significant advancement in energy efficiency, not only in racing powertrains but also potentially in various applications beyond the racing industry. While initially showcased in a racing context, the technology's adaptability for other uses, such as in Toyota's fuel cells for trucks, hints at a broader impact. By effectively handling the efficiency challenges associated with liquid hydrogen, this innovation opens doors for its increased utilization, driven by its higher energy density and extended range capabilities.