TOYOTA has introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the form of a hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine for its Hi-Ace model.
This prototype, set to undergo a customer pilot program in Australia, signifies Toyota’s commitment to exploring multiple pathways to decarbonization, including hydrogen as a potential fuel for the future.
Toyota’s development of the Hydrogen Hi-Ace aligns with its broader strategy to invest in various carbon-neutral technologies. These include hybrid-electric, plug-in hybrid-electric, battery-electric, and fuel-cell electric vehicles. This vehicle represents the latest advancement in this multi-faceted approach, offering ultra-low CO2 tailpipe emissions and presenting a viable option for commercial vehicles.
The prototype Hi-Ace will be tested in real-world conditions by Australian companies, allowing them to evaluate the technology’s practicality and efficiency. This customer drive program aims to gather valuable feedback that will aid Toyota in refining the technology and potentially bringing hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines to full commercial production.
Toyota Australia President and CEO Matthew Callachor expressed pride in being selected to run this pilot program.
“This technology offers the potential for Toyota to produce vehicles that meet the practical requirements of commercial customers while dramatically reducing CO2 tailpipe emissions,” Mr Callachor said in a press statement.
He emphasized the importance of Australia’s commitment to developing a hydrogen economy, with significant federal and state funding already in place. The diverse Australian environment provides an ideal testing ground for the Hydrogen HiAce, ensuring that the technology meets Toyota’s high standards.
Toyota began developing hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine technology in 2017, with its debut in a Corolla Sport during Japan’s Super Taikyu series in 2021. The extreme conditions of motorsport provided valuable insights, which were then applied to meet emissions standards and adapt the technology for the commercial vehicle model.
Toyota’s extremely popular commercial van was chosen for this pilot due to its packaging advantages and suitability for “back to base” operations. The vehicle’s design allows for the engine to be installed up front and hydrogen fuel tanks to be placed under the floor, maintaining its internal space and payload capacity. The prototype uses a modified V6 turbo petrol engine, similar to that in some LandCruiser 300 Series models, which drives the rear wheels through a ten-speed automatic transmission. This engine has been adapted to run on compressed hydrogen gas using a direct-injection system, meeting Euro VI emission standards.
The Hydrogen HiAce boasts a maximum power output of 120 kW and peak torque of 354 Nm. While it generates almost zero CO2 tailpipe emissions, the process of igniting hydrogen produces small amounts of oxides of nitrogen (NOx). These emissions are mitigated to meet Euro VI standards using a selective catalytic reduction system.
The pilot program is designed to accelerate the development of hydrogen powertrains, with various companies evaluating the technology for commuter and delivery operations. CPB Contractors, a leading Australian infrastructure firm, will be the first to use the Commuter version of the HiAce for transporting workers in Melbourne.
The Hydrogen HiAce pilot program builds on Toyota Australia’s extensive efforts to promote hydrogen technology. These include trials with the first-generation Mirai FCEV, the establishment of a hydrogen production and refueling facility in Altona, and the leasing of second-generation Mirai sedans to businesses and organizations.
In a broader context, Toyota has also signed agreements with Hyundai Australia, Ampol, and Pacific Energy to develop hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Beyond transportation, Toyota is committed to assembling and distributing fuel-cell generators in collaboration with French energy supplier EODev, further supporting Australia’s hydrogen economy.
While the Hydrogen Hi-Ace prototype represents a significant step forward, hydrogen as a mainstream fuel faces considerable challenges. These include the high cost of production, limited refueling infrastructure, and storage difficulties. Despite these hurdles, hydrogen has potential applications in specific sectors like heavy-duty transportation, shipping, and aviation, where battery technology may not be feasible.
