Improving fuel-cell technology

Toyota Motor Corporation has developed a new fuel-cell system as part of its push towards what it calls a “hydrogen society”.

The Japanese company’s third-generation fuel-cell system, or 3rd Gen FC System, is designed to meet the needs of the commercial sector and offer the same durability as conventional diesel-powered engines. 

Toyota adds the new system features improvements in performance, fuel efficiency and a reduction in costs when compared with the prior version. 

In addition to passenger vehicles, the 3rd Gen FC System will be expanded for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles and is set to be introduced in Japan, Europe, North America and China after 2026 at the earliest.

Toyota considers hydrogen an important fuel in achieving carbon neutrality and is collaborating with partners across various industries. 

In 2014, it launched the Mirai fuel cell electric vehicle and has since sold about 28,000 units worldwide.

Features of the 3rd Gen FC System include durability up to two times that of the prior generation, achieving durability comparable to diesel engines and maintenance-free design.

Its fuel efficiency is 1.2 times better than the second-generation system, which allows for 20 per cent more cruising range.

Toyota also notes the 3rd Gen FC System, unveiled for the first time at a Tokyo expo in February, can be installed in a variety of commercial vehicles, passenger cars, and general-purpose applications, such as stationary generators, rail, and ships.