A notable shift in the automotive industry is occurring as manufacturers increasingly focus on electric vehicles, spurred by regulations in Europe. Toyota, while exploring hydrogen technology, faces challenges with its Mirai model’s sales and a lawsuit regarding refueling infrastructure. At the Tokyo H2 & FC Expo, Toyota unveiled a new fuel cell with double the sustainability and improved efficiency. However, concerns about hydrogen production’s environmental impact and its efficiency compared to electric motors remain contentious issues.
The Shift Towards Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles
In today’s automotive landscape, a significant number of car manufacturers are making a strong pivot towards electric vehicles (EVs). This transition is understandable, especially considering that by 2035, only electric engines will be permitted for sale in Europe. However, some brands, like Toyota, are exploring other innovative alternatives, with a notable focus on hydrogen technology despite facing challenges in the electric vehicle market.
Innovations in Hydrogen Fuel Cells
The Japanese automotive giant has been at the forefront of hydrogen technology since the introduction of its first Mirai model back in 2015. Unfortunately, this vehicle has not gained significant traction, as evidenced by its lackluster sales in 2024. Additionally, Toyota is currently dealing with a class action lawsuit brought forth by owners who are frustrated with the insufficient number of hydrogen refueling stations. Nevertheless, Toyota remains undeterred and continues to push forward.
Recently, at the H2 & FC Expo in Tokyo, Toyota introduced its latest generation of fuel cells. According to the company, this new technology boasts a sustainability level that is double that of its predecessor and is designed to achieve “performance levels comparable to diesel engines,” all while requiring no maintenance. Furthermore, this third-generation fuel cell enhances energy efficiency by 1.2 times when compared to the older model, translating into a remarkable 20% increase in driving range. This improvement is particularly crucial for drivers, especially when considering the limited availability of refueling stations, of which only 75 were operational in France as of June 2024, although 64 more are planned or under construction.
While technical specifications for this innovative fuel cell have not yet been fully disclosed, Toyota emphasizes a significant reduction in production costs, made possible through new manufacturing processes. This anticipated decrease in cost could positively influence the pricing of future vehicles equipped with this cutting-edge technology.
What makes this new fuel cell particularly compelling is its remarkable versatility. Toyota’s announcement indicates that the technology can be integrated into a wide array of vehicles, ranging from passenger cars to commercial trucks. Moreover, it has potential applications beyond automobiles, including use in generators, trains, and boats. The new module is also more compact than previous versions, which contributes to a reduction in both size and weight. Currently, the hydrogen engine is still in development, with an expected market release in 2027. It remains to be seen if Toyota will introduce new models specifically designed for this engine or if it will enhance the next generation of the Mirai.
However, the hydrogen vehicle sector is not without its criticisms. A group of 120 scientists recently published an open letter challenging the environmental benefits of hydrogen engines, citing concerns about the reliance on fossil fuels for hydrogen production. Furthermore, the head of MAN has expressed skepticism about the viability of hydrogen due to its relatively low efficiency—around 25%—compared to over 75% for electric motors. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of transitioning to alternative fuel sources in the automotive industry.