Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car: Is Toyota Right to Keep Pushing?
This page is translated from the original post "Voiture à carburant hydrogène : Toyota a-t-elle raison de s’entêter ?" in French.
- 08/12/2022 11:00
Toyota has unveiled a new concept car called the Corolla Cross H2. The new Japanese SUV is equipped with an engine that uses hydrogen as fuel.
However, Toyota had warned us. The Japanese brand was clearly serious when it entered a GR Yaris powered by a hydrogen fuel engine in rally racing. With this model, the Japanese manufacturer mainly aimed to make an impact. Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda took the wheel, aiming to showcase the potential of hydrogen, but not in the usual way.
Hydrogen as Fuel
In the automotive industry, hydrogen is primarily used in fuel cells. It is transformed through a chemical reaction into water vapor and heat to generate an electric current. This is how the Corolla “H2” burns oxygen in a 1.6 turbo three-cylinder engine directly derived from that of the Yaris GR.
The prototype is also equipped with hydrogen tanks, designed based on expertise gained during the development of the Toyota Mirai. The prototype can carry five passengers and their luggage. Real-world testing is conducted alongside digital development. The vehicle will soon undergo winter trials in northern Japan.
Advancement Through Technology
Regular and intense participation in motorsport has accelerated development and technical progress. Over a single racing season, Toyota increased hydrogen combustion power by 24% and torque by 33%. These dynamic performances are comparable to those of a conventional gasoline engine.
Furthermore, the range has been increased by about 30% compared to the famous hydrogen-powered Yaris GR, and refueling time has been reduced from five minutes to 90 seconds. Toyota collaborates with many stakeholders in fields related to hydrogen use, including green hydrogen production and transportation.
Toyota estimates that it is about 40% along the path to commercialization of the Corolla Cross H2 Concept. It is difficult to say whether the technology will reach maturity for mass-market vehicles, but there is the potential to use it in motorsport.
Read also : At Issy-les-Moulineaux, delivery by hydrogen bicycle
We also suggestthese articles:
Also read
