Toyota's Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hilux Prototype Testing in the UK
Key Ideas
- Toyota is evaluating and demonstrating its hydrogen fuel cell Hilux prototype in the UK, with ten prototypes built and government backing.
- The FCEV Hilux prototypes maintain the same dimensions as the fossil-powered model, with technology borrowed from the Toyota Mirai for a 600km range.
- The final phase of the fuel cell Hilux project involves field testing for safety, performance, and durability, aiming to showcase the advantages of hydrogen technology.
- Despite low hydrogen car sales compared to electric vehicles, Japanese carmakers like Toyota are committed to hydrogen and hybrid technologies for the future.
Japanese carmaker Toyota has initiated the evaluation and demonstration of its hydrogen fuel cell Hilux prototype in the United Kingdom. This project includes the construction of ten hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) Hilux prototypes, supported financially by the UK government. Currently, five prototypes are undergoing real-world field testing to assess various aspects like safety, performance, functionality, and durability. Additionally, five units are involved in customer and media demonstrations, including participation in the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.
The FCEV Hilux prototypes maintain the same external dimensions and appearance as the traditional Toyota Hilux. These vehicles utilize technology from the Toyota Mirai, the company's initial hydrogen vehicle, to offer an expected driving range of up to 600km. The hydrogen is stored in three high-pressure fuel tanks within the ladder frame chassis. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell stack with 330 cells is positioned above the front axle, while a lithium-ion hybrid battery for storing electricity generated by the fuel cell is located in the rear load deck.
The ongoing testing and operation of the ten prototype FCEV Hilux vehicles mark the conclusion of the final phase of the fuel cell Hilux research and demonstration project. Toyota aims for Europe to become a prominent hydrogen fuel cell market by 2030, despite current low sales of hydrogen cars compared to electric vehicles. Japanese car manufacturers are persisting with hydrogen and hybrid technologies, showing a commitment to advancing sustainable transportation solutions.