Toyota is set to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain in the next-generation Corolla, solidifying its commitment to hydrogen as a key energy source for the future. This move comes as many automotive manufacturers shift their focus toward electric vehicles and traditional combustion engines, while Toyota remains one of the few companies actively developing fuel cell technology. The automaker aims to enhance efficiency with a new hydrogen powertrain expected to be 20% more effective than the current Mirai’s system, while plans to integrate production for both passenger cars and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) aim to reduce costs.
Mitsumasa Yamagata, head of Toyota’s hydrogen division, has acknowledged that while hydrogen remains a niche option, it is positioned to become increasingly significant as traditional combustion engines are phased out. Although developing the hydrogen-based powertrain for the Corolla is underway, the company is also ensuring that it fits seamlessly into the car’s design. With its unique proportions, a compact system is in development to accommodate the fuel cell without extensive redesigns.
A primary challenge for expanding hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is the limited refueling infrastructure, which is exacerbated by the lack of vehicles on the road. Yamagata proposed that increasing the presence of hydrogen-fueled trucks could establish the necessary groundwork for a more comprehensive refueling network for passenger cars. He noted that Europe already has nearly 300 hydrogen stations, but many are underutilized due to the small number of FCEVs.
To address the “chicken and egg” situation of infrastructure and vehicle adoption, Yamagata suggests a combined planning effort among industry stakeholders to create hydrogen stations strategically placed every 200 kilometers along key routes. He emphasized that by focusing on heavy-duty hydrogen trucks, a cost-effective and extensive refueling network could eventually develop to support passenger vehicles.
However, the challenge remains that heavy trucks typically use liquefied hydrogen while cars require gaseous hydrogen, but Yamagata asserts that it is entirely feasible to supply both types from the same station, optimizing locations and minimizing installation costs. The overarching aim is not just to innovate within Toyota but to collaborate across the industry to ensure the deployment of an effective hydrogen infrastructure for future vehicles.