Toyota: Hydrogen drive for the Hilux
FUTURE Due to growing customer demand and the holistic solution approach to mobility, Toyota sees fuel cell electric drive as a new opportunity for a zero-emission product offering.
Toyota successfully applied for APC (Advanced Propulsion Centre) funding last year by presenting a project to develop new, cleaner technology and mobility solutions.
The APC plays an important role in the UK automotive industry because it provides opportunities to expose the industry to new technological requirements. Funding supports development steps from the concept to the prototype stage.
Fuel cell components for Hilux
The consortium, led by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, will receive funding to develop a fuel cell-powered Hilux. Working with Ricardo, ETL, D2H and Thatcham Research, the goal is to use Toyota's second-generation fuel cell components to transform the Hilux into an electric vehicle.
Small series production is planned
It is planned that the first prototypes will be produced at Toyota in Burnaston next year. After successful performance tests, a small series production is to be prepared.
Matt Harrison, President and CEO Toyota Motor Europe: "UK is one of the most important markets for pick-ups and also for Toyota. This funding provides a great opportunity to develop a zero-emission vehicle for an important market segment."
