Toyota has discovered a new way to use hydrogen that could make electric car batteries obsolete.
The automotive industry is moving toward electrification, but Toyota, a major Japanese manufacturer, has opted for a diversified strategy. While many manufacturers focus solely on electric vehicles, Toyota invests in alternative energies like hydrogen and even ammonia. This approach is not due to skepticism about electrification but is instead culturally and strategically motivated. Toyota aims to lead the future of mobility by exploring all technological frontrunners.
Toyota is changing how we perceive hydrogen. They’ve widened its use beyond cars, presenting it as a versatile energy source. At the Japan Mobility Bizweek, Toyota showcased portable hydrogen cartridges. These innovations are designed for easy transport and use, benefiting not just vehicles but also homes and everyday uses. These cartridges are cylindrical, similar to large AA batteries, and weigh 5 kilograms with a 3.3 kWh capacity. They are lighter and more compact than previous models due to Toyota’s expertise in hydrogen storage.
The main advantage of these portable hydrogen cartridges is that they eliminate the need for long charging times or extensive infrastructure. When a fuel cell vehicle (FCEV) needs energy, the user simply swaps an empty cartridge for a full one. Toyota foresees a complete hydrogen ecosystem where cartridges are easily exchanged, reducing the need for complex infrastructures. These cartridges can be charged with renewable energy and could provide power in areas without access to the grid.
Toyota’s ambition goes beyond cars. They have collaborated with Rinnai Corporation to develop a hydrogen-powered kitchen appliance, showing the integration potential of this technology in homes. Additionally, Toyota’s Corolla GR-Sport runs on liquid hydrogen and competes in endurance races, demonstrating hydrogen’s viability in motorsports. The company’s energy storage system reutilizes electric vehicle batteries to stabilize renewable energy sources, further reducing waste.
