Toyota has been exploring other eco-friendly mobility solutions apart from electric vehicles (EVs). One of which is hydrogen, and the new Hilux Prototype fuel cell electric is the brand’s latest project for such an initiative.
Toyota Hilux hydrogen prototype
Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK) delivered the prototype backed by United Kingdom (UK) Government funding. The project began in early 2022, with the first vehicle completed last June. It is the first of 10 units that will be built by the end of this year.
“We have an amazing manufacturing sector here in the UK, and this is a great example. It’s fascinating to see Toyota reach another milestone on their journey to zero emissions here in Britain, and I congratulate the project team for their success on this cutting-edge development,” said Ministry for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani.
The powertrain is sourced from the Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric sedan, producing no tailpipe emissions other than pure water. Toyota claims the hydrogen-powered Hilux has a driving range of around 587 km, which is said to be more than what most EVs can offer.
The vehicle only emits water
That is made possible using three high-pressure fuel tanks sitting below the cabin. To avoid compromising interior space, the battery is positioned in the rear load deck.
The prototype features a livery similar to the one in the hydrogen-powered GR Yaris. The latter gets the same 1.6-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine but uses hydrogen as its fuel.
“The project team have accomplished an incredible job in a very short space of time, from creating the prototype build area to completion of the first vehicle. The UK Government funding has enabled us not only to develop a new vehicle in record time, but also to upskill our teams to work on hydrogen-related technologies, something we hope to build on in the future,” said TMUK Managing Director Richard Kenworthy.
The Hilux joins the brand's hydrogen portfolio
While Toyota has yet to confirm whether this hydrogen tech will be offered on the production Hilux, the pickup will be receiving a new 48V mild-hybrid system early next year. Although, the hybrid system will be made available in the Australian market first.
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