Toyota: First photos and data of the Mirai II
FUEL CELL ELECTRIC CAR With a new technical approach, Toyota also wants to significantly increase sales of the second-generation Mirai fuel cell electric model in Switzerland in 2021. Unlike battery electric cars, fuel cell models are not yet really getting off the ground. But this should change once the hydrogen infrastructure is better developed. And that's what the transport industry is working on [...].
In contrast to battery electric cars, fuel cell models have not yet really taken off. But this should change once the hydrogen infrastructure is better developed. And the transport industry is currently working on this, driven by the first fuel cell trucks that have recently been on the road in Switzerland.
In the passenger car segment, there are only the two models Hyundai Nexo and Toyota Mirai in Switzerland, which produce the electricity for the electric motor in a fuel cell stack.
Very spacious five-seat interior
Now Toyota is launching the second generation of the Mirai - externally and technically only distantly related to the previous generation. The new model, which has grown by around 10 centimeters to 4.98 meters in length, is built on the modular GL-A platform and now offers a spacious five-seater interior. In addition, the increase in length and wheelbase allows the installation of a third hydrogen tank, which increases the range by 30 percent to around 650 kilometers.
The GL-A architecture allows the new fuel cell stack to be installed at the front of the Japanese car, while the high-voltage buffer battery and electric motor are installed above the rear axle.
This results in a 50:50 weight distribution, and unlike in the predecessor, drive is via the rear wheels.
More drive power and less weight
The significantly more power-dense fuel cell now enables a system output of 128 kW - around twelve percent more than in the predecessor. The maximum torque is 300 Nm. In addition, the drive system is said to be capable of starting at temperatures as low as minus 30°C. The lithium-ion battery, which replaces the first-generation nickel-metal hydride version, weighs just 44.6 kilograms.
Four service stations and another six in planning
The new Mirai, which rolls on 19- or 20-inch wheels, will be available in three equipment variants from February. Toyota Switzerland expects to sell around 100 units. Four hydrogen filling stations are currently open in Switzerland, with six more to be added soon.
