Toyota Hilux Hydrogen Fuel-Cell: Real-World Testing Begins in the UK
Key Ideas
  • Toyota's U.K. plant starts testing the first hydrogen fuel-cell-powered Hilux pickup truck, aiming to demonstrate a market-ready model.
  • 10 fuel cell Hilux prototypes are being tested in real-world conditions for safety, performance, and durability, with five engaged in customer and media demonstrations.
  • Europe is expected to become a key hydrogen fuel cell market by 2030, with Toyota's project seen as a step towards developing hydrogen technology and infrastructure.
  • The Hilux fuel cell truck offers a range of up to 372 miles, faster refueling than battery-electric vehicles, and higher payload/towing capacity due to its lightweight design.
Toyota's U.K. production plant in Derby has initiated real-world testing of the first hydrogen fuel-cell-powered Hilux pickup truck. The project aims to showcase a market-ready model after less than a year since the prototype's unveiling. The facility has produced 10 fuel cell Hilux prototypes for pilot trials with selected commercial operators. Currently, five trucks are undergoing intensive field testing, while the other five are involved in customer demonstrations, including the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Toyota foresees Europe as a major hydrogen fuel cell market by 2030, with a focus on mobility and power generation applications. The fuel-cell Hilux project is viewed as a precursor to advancing hydrogen technology and promoting wider adoption of hydrogen ecosystems and infrastructure across Europe. The Hilux's powertrain incorporates elements from the Toyota Mirai, offering a range of up to 372 miles and quicker refueling compared to battery-electric vehicles. Its design allows for higher payload and towing capacity due to a lighter curb weight than battery-electric equivalents. The hydrogen is stored in three high-pressure fuel tanks within the chassis, providing a total system capacity of 7.8 kg. The truck features a polymer electrolyte fuel-cell stack, rear-wheel drive via an e-motor, and a lithium-ion hybrid battery located in the rear load deck.
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