Toyota Motor Corporation announced on the 14th that it has developed a new generation of fuel cell (FC) systems, marking the third generation of this technology. This new system boasts enhanced energy efficiency and is designed to offer durability and high output comparable to that of diesel engines when installed in large commercial vehicles. The company plans to introduce this innovative technology in markets such as Japan, Europe, North America, and China starting from 2026.
Toyota made its first foray into the fuel cell vehicle (FCV) market with the launch of the "Mirai" in 2014. Since then, it has sold approximately 28,000 units across more than 30 countries. In 2019, the company began supplying standalone FC systems, providing over 2,700 FC stacks to more than 100 companies worldwide for various applications, including buses, railways, and stationary power sources.
The new third-generation fuel cell system leverages the knowledge and expertise gained from the sales and development of previous models. One of its significant advancements is the doubling of durability compared to the second-generation system, achieving maintenance-free operation. Additionally, the energy efficiency, which is a crucial metric for fuel economy, has been improved by 1.2 times. The design and manufacturing processes for the cells (individual fuel cells) have also undergone substantial revisions, aiming to reduce costs significantly. Specifically, Toyota is working towards halving the production cost of the FC stack compared to the second generation.
The versatility of the new fuel cell system allows for easy integration into various vehicle types, including passenger cars, general-purpose applications (such as stationary power sources, railways, and marine vessels), and large commercial vehicles. To support the deployment of large FC trucks, Toyota has developed a hydrogen storage module capable of holding approximately 36 kilograms of gaseous hydrogen, utilizing four high-pressure hydrogen tanks.
This new fuel cell system will be showcased for the first time at the "H2 & FC Expo (Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Exhibition)" set to begin on the 19th at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto, Tokyo. This exhibition serves as a platform for industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to come together and discuss the future of hydrogen technology and fuel cells.
The development of this advanced fuel cell system aligns with Toyota's broader strategy to promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions across the automotive sector. As the global community increasingly shifts toward cleaner energy solutions, the demand for hydrogen fuel cell technology is expected to grow significantly. Toyota's commitment to innovation in this field not only positions the company as a leader in hydrogen technologies but also contributes to the broader goal of achieving a carbon-neutral society.
Moreover, the third-generation fuel cell system represents a crucial step in addressing the challenges associated with energy efficiency and sustainability in heavy-duty transportation. With the ability to provide performance levels comparable to traditional diesel engines, this new system could play a vital role in the transition to cleaner energy sources in commercial transport.
In conclusion, Toyota's announcement of its new third-generation fuel cell system marks a significant milestone in the evolution of hydrogen technology. By enhancing energy efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness, Toyota is poised to make substantial contributions to the growing field of fuel cell vehicles and large commercial vehicles. As the company prepares for its debut at the H2 & FC Expo, the industry will be watching closely to see how these advancements can influence the future of sustainable transport and energy solutions globally. Through continuous innovation and dedication to environmental responsibility, Toyota aims to lead the charge toward a greener future, harnessing the power of hydrogen as a key component in achieving sustainable mobility.