|
It has now confirmed that an updated version of its FCV-R concept will be revealed in Frankfurt, featuring a similar hybrid system to that found in the Toyota Prius.
Toyota has managed to halve the size of the fuel cell stack, while doubling the power density to 3.0kW per litre. This makes for increased practicality and a reduction in cost as the whole hydrogen fuel cell system can be located beneath the floor.
Hydrogen powered vehicles have always been a very attractive prospect for manufacturers as, in theory, they provide emissions-free motoring and relatively low running costs.
Toyota is predicating FCHVs will be available globally during the 2020s. Yet, Toyota still plans to introduce an affordable FCHV in Japan, North America and Europe by 2015.
The next generation Toyota Prius will be fitted with a more efficient and powerful hybrid system meaning reduced emissions as well as costs. The newly developed powertrain will also be fitted to a wide range of Toyota and Lexus models in the future.