Launch in 2026: Toyota is developing a new fuel cell system for passenger cars and heavy-duty commercial vehicles
Toyota Motor Corporation announced on 14 February that it has developed a new third-generation Fuel Cell system as part of its programme to promote hydrogen transport. The new product will be unveiled for the first time on Wednesday, 19 February at the International Hydrogen Fuel Cell Expo in Tokyo, Japan.
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Toyota said the third-generation fuel cell system is being developed to meet the needs of the commercial sector with the same durability as conventional diesel engines.
Key parameters of Toyota's third-generation fuel cell system are:
- Increased durability up to 2 times that of the previous generation, achieving durability comparable to diesel engines and a maintenance-free design.
- Improved fuel efficiency up to 1.2 times that of the previous generation, achieving up to 20 per cent more driving range.
- Significant cost reductions through innovations in cell design and manufacturing processes.
The next generation system can be installed in a variety of commercial vehicles, passenger cars and general purpose installations such as stationary generators, railways and ships. For passenger vehicles, improved fuel efficiency provides greater driving range. For heavy-duty commercial vehicles, the new Fuel Cell system provides durability comparable to diesel engines and high power output. In addition, thanks to the system's compact design, it can be more easily integrated into a variety of commercial vehicles.
The third-generation Fuel Cell system is planned for introduction, primarily in Japan, Europe, North America and China, no earlier than 2026.
Source: Toyota