Hydrogen Toyota Hilux project announced

Date: Tuesday, December 6, 2022 | Author: Sean Keywood

A Toyota-led consortium has received UK Government funding for a project to develop a prototype hydrogen fuel cell-powered version of the Hilux pick-up truck.

Funding has been allocated via the Advanced Propulsion Centre to the project, which is also being worked on by Ricardo, ETL, D2H, and Thatcham Research.

It will use components from Toyota’s second-generation fuel cell system, currently being used in the Mirai passenger car.

Initial hydrogen Hilux prototypes will be produced at Toyota’s factory in Burnaston, Derbyshire, during 2023, with the subsequent intent to prepare the model for small series production.

Toyota Motor Europe President and CEO Matt Harrison said: “The UK is one of the key markets for pick-up trucks and an important market for Toyota.

“This funding represents a tremendous opportunity to develop a zero-emission solution in a critical market segment. We would like to thank the UK Government for the funding that will enable the consortium to investigate the development of a fuel cell powertrain for the Toyota Hilux, supporting our carbon neutrality ambition.”

Thatcham Research chief revenue officer Miller Crockart said: “Whilst pure battery electric vehicles are the poster child for decarbonisation in the automotive sector, continued research and the development of alternative fuel types, such as hydrogen, also hold the potential to play a key part in achieving UK carbon neutrality goals.

“This project is a good example of how government and the automotive sector can bring innovation and new growth opportunities to the UK motor industry.

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