In the realm of automotive innovation, Toyota has taken the lead with groundbreaking advancements in engine performance, specifically in the domain of liquid hydrogen pumps. The challenge has always been to generate high fuel pressure with stability, a feat essential for achieving the remarkable output levels comparable to traditional gasoline and gaseous hydrogen engines.

Enhancing Pressure Boosting Performance and Durability

At the heart of Toyota's engine evolution lies the quest for improved pressure boosting performance and enhanced durability of liquid hydrogen pumps. Overcoming challenges that have long hindered progress, Toyota engineers have elevated the performance standards, ensuring stability and high fuel pressure—a critical stride towards achieving unparalleled engine efficiency.

Pushing the Boundaries: Cruising Range Optimizations

Toyota's commitment to pushing the boundaries of hydrogen-powered vehicles is evident in the strides made in increasing the cruising range. The Fuji 24 Hours Race in May served as a testing ground where Toyota set out to break its own records. Previously limited to 16 laps on a single hydrogen fill-up, the goal is now set at an ambitious 20 laps. Achieving this milestone involves a multifaceted approach, including precise determination of hydrogen tank fullness, minimizing boil-off gas through heat reduction, and optimizing fuel injection strategies during partial pedal depression.

Prioritizing Safety without Compromise: Vehicle Weight Reduction

Safety has always been a top priority for Toyota, and the hydrogen-powered Corolla is no exception. What sets it apart is the meticulous approach to weight reduction without compromising safety and security. Through a comprehensive analysis of driving experiences, Toyota identified components that could be made lighter without compromising safety. Adjusting factors such as thickness and the number of parts resulted in a remarkable 50 kg reduction in vehicle weight, now standing at 1,860 kg compared to the previous 1,910 kg at the Autopolis race.

Pioneering CO2 Capture Technology

In the pursuit of carbon neutrality, Toyota is spearheading the challenge of CO2 capture technology. Recognizing the need to both reduce emissions from vehicles and plants and capture CO2 from the atmosphere, Toyota is embarking on a trial initiative. A CO2 capture device is ingeniously integrated into the hydrogen-powered Corolla's engine compartment, leveraging its large-volume air intake and the heat generated by combustion.

Innovative CO2 Absorption and Separation

The heart of this initiative lies in a two-step process. A CO2 absorption device is strategically placed at the air cleaner inlet, while a CO2 separation device, utilizing engine oil heat, is installed adjacent to the air cleaner. The separated CO2 is then captured in a specially designed tank filled with an absorbent. Notably, Toyota employs filters coated with an absorbent developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., boasting lower temperature CO2 release, thereby significantly increasing capture efficiency.

On the Road to Feasibility: Hydrogen-Powered HiAce in Australia

Toyota's commitment to a carbon-neutral society extends beyond its home turf, as evidenced by the on-road feasibility testing of the hydrogen-powered HiAce in Australia. This initiative marks a strategic move to broaden the horizons of hydrogen engine technology.

Testing Overview

Commencing in October 2023 and spanning approximately four months until January 2024, the feasibility testing takes place on public roads in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. The vehicle, based on the HiAce, is meticulously converted to be equipped with a hydrogen engine running on gaseous hydrogen. The testing involves real-world scenarios, with operation by a construction company and a security company, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the hydrogen-powered HiAce's capabilities.

Unveiling Toyota's Expertise: Super Taikyu Series Insights

Toyota's journey towards perfecting hydrogen engine technology is not a recent endeavor but a culmination of years of rigorous testing and refinement. Through participation in the Super Taikyu series, Toyota has honed various aspects, including durability in challenging environments, hydrogen combustion technology, abnormal combustion control, and assurance of hydrogen safety.

Beyond Motorsports: Practicality for Commercial Use

While the Super Taikyu series provided a valuable motorsport environment for training, Toyota is taking the hydrogen-powered vehicles to the next level—real-world scenarios on public roads. This on-road demonstration aims to develop practicality for commercial use, focusing on operability, durability under customer operating environments, and laying the foundation for future practical applications.

Toyota's Accelerated Development for a Greener Future

As Toyota continues to accelerate development in the challenging world of motorsports, it remains steadfast in its commitment to a carbon-neutral society. Collaborating with partners, Toyota is expanding options to create an even better environmental footprint.