Japan’s hydrogen car industry has been relatively quiet for years, but Toyota is set to change that. On February 19, at the Japan Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo (H2 & FC EXPO), the company will unveil its third-generation hydrogen fuel cells.
As a pioneer in hydrogen vehicle technology, Toyota has been developing fuel cells since the early 1990s. The company introduced its first-generation hydrogen sedan, the MIRAI, in 2014, offering 650 kilometers of range on just a three-minute refill.
（The first generation of Toyota's “MIRAI” hydrogen sedan）
In 2020, Toyota launched the second-generation MIRAI, pushing its range to 850 kilometers per refill. In real-world driving tests in California, it even managed 1,358 kilometers on a full tank. The second-generation MIRAI also served as a VIP transport vehicle at the Tokyo Olympics and the Beijing Winter Olympics.
Unlike traditional electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells perform reliably in cold weather and produce only fresh water as emissions, making them a true zero-emission solution.
What’s New in Toyota’s Third-Generation Hydrogen Fuel Cell?
Toyota’s latest hydrogen fuel cell brings three key improvements:
Greater Durability & Efficiency
Twice the lifespan of the previous generation, now comparable to gasoline engines.
1.2 times higher combustion efficiency, making it more energy-efficient.
Over 20% longer range, exceeding 1,000 kilometers per refill, ensuring worry-free long-distance travel.
Smaller, Lighter, and More Affordable
A more compact design thanks to innovative engineering.
Significantly lower manufacturing costs, making hydrogen vehicles more practical and accessible.
（Application scenarios of the compact and high-energy Toyota third-generation hydrogen fuel cell）
Wider Applications Beyond Passenger Cars
The new fuel cell can power trucks, buses, trains, ships, industrial locomotives, and stationary hydrogen generators, making hydrogen a viable energy source across multiple industries.
Toyota has long championed hydrogen as a key solution for carbon neutrality and is working with partners across industries to drive its adoption. With the third-generation hydrogen fuel cell, Toyota aims to strengthen hydrogen’s role in commercial applications and accelerate the transition to a hydrogen-powered future.
Toyota’s Expanding Hydrogen Fleet
Toyota already produces hydrogen-powered vehicles, including the MIRAI sedan and hydrogen buses, which are a common sight in Tokyo.
In 2023, the company introduced a 20-ton hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck with a 650-kilometer range, expanding its reach into commercial transportation.
Meanwhile, the second-generation MIRAI, positioned as a luxury vehicle, features an elegant Lexus-inspired design, premium interior, and a 4,975 mm body length. It’s priced at approximately 8 million yen.
（Second-generation Toyota “MIRAI” Hydrogen-powered Sedan）
Toyota’s Future Plans in China
Toyota has officially announced plans to build a new energy vehicle plant in Jinshan District, Shanghai, China. This facility will manufacture both Lexus hydrogen and electric vehicles.
The electric models will feature Toyota’s all-solid-state batteries, which offer:
1,200 kilometers of range on just a 10-minute charge.
Improved safety, as these batteries do not catch fire from collisions or spontaneous combustion.
Meanwhile, Toyota’s hydrogen vehicles will be equipped with the new third-generation fuel cells, ensuring a clean, powerful, and safe energy alternative.
Starting in 2027, Toyota’s new energy vehicles in China will combine cutting-edge powertrain technology with advanced interior and vehicle systems. This move is expected to have a major impact on the electric vehicle market in China and beyond, reinforcing Toyota’s leadership in next-generation transportation.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
