In a world increasingly driven by the pursuit of sustainability, Toyota’s latest offering, the second-generation Mirai, is making waves as it propels us toward a cleaner and greener future.
Stepping behind the wheel of this innovative four-door five-seater saloon, one quickly realizes that this is no ordinary driving experience. Toyota’s Mirai not only redefines the concept of “stepping on the gas” but also reimagines the very essence of vehicular power.
The new Mirai is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. Ditching traditional gasoline engines, this revolutionary vehicle derives its power from a potent and abundant source: hydrogen. This colorless, odorless element takes on an entirely new role as it fuels a chemical reaction that ultimately generates electricity to power the Mirai’s electric motors.
The process unfolds within the heart of the Mirai through a unique fuel-cell system. Hydrogen gas from the fuel tank and oxygen atoms from the atmosphere converge in a dance of chemical reactions, producing electric power to drive the vehicle. The remarkable by-product of this process is nothing short of awe-inspiring: water vapor, so pure that it’s drinkable.
Behind the wheel, the Mirai feels like a symphony of innovation. Its acceleration, reaching 0 to 62 mph in 9 seconds, is swift and immediate, courtesy of the electric motor’s instant torque. The sporty demeanor of this hydrogen-powered marvel is paired with sleek design elements that balance aesthetics with functionality. The Mirai’s profile exudes a hint of the 1970s, merging retro charm with a futuristic twist.
While the Mirai drives in near silence, Toyota introduces an intriguing feature known as the ‘Active Sound Creator.’ This optional system adds artificial noise to the cabin, providing a sensory experience akin to traditional engines. This choice, a nod to the familiar, highlights the Mirai’s role as an ambassador of change in the automotive landscape.
One of the Mirai’s most impressive features is its range. A single tank of hydrogen propels the vehicle up to 400 miles, equivalent to the distance from London to Edinburgh. Despite hydrogen’s reputation for being lighter than air and highly combustible, Toyota has taken rigorous safety measures. Hydrogen’s non-pooling nature and the advanced technology employed in the Mirai’s fuel-cell system ensure safety without compromise.
As with any innovative technology, the Mirai presents both promise and challenges. The cost of filling up the Mirai’s hydrogen fuel tank ranges between £56 and £84, reflecting the current pricing of hydrogen. Toyota aims to sell 30,000 Mirai units annually worldwide, with a price tag aligned with conventional battery electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 Long Range.
While challenges such as hydrogen refueling infrastructure remain, pioneering companies like Toyota are driving the transformation of transportation. The Mirai’s impact extends beyond the road, contributing to cleaner air and paving the way for a hydrogen-powered revolution.
