If there’s one manufacturer that has invested heavily in hydrogen powertrains, it’s Toyota. They proved it some time ago while testing a combustion engine GR Yaris converted to walk over stuff, without making the hot hatch any less fun to drive – or make any noise. However, the Japanese saw much more benefit in using fuel cells that convert hydrogen into electricity and thereby drive an electric motor. They’ve been implementing that technology for nearly a decade across two generations Miraibut the time is ripe for the next chapter.
Come on, diesel engine
Vehicles like this Hilux According to Toyota, hydrogen could play a major role in the chapter, as hydrogen powertrains can be very useful in the transportation sector. The technical drawings show very well how much space the components take up, and we also immediately see the impact on the Hilux’s drive system. Usually equipped with a large diesel engine at the front, which sends power to the wheels via a gearbox and cardan shaft. Everything was scrapped here, and replaced with a fuel cell up front, a series of hydrogen tanks under the floor, and an electric motor at the rear.
We won’t be getting any more details on the powertrain for now, as Toyota indicated that the Hilux Hydrogen is still in development. This was done by a team in the UK, in collaboration with our own Toyota Motor Europe head office in Zaventem. The first prototype will be unveiled in 2023, and if things aren’t too dire, Toyota is looking to bring the device into production after.
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