Toyota's U.K.-Developed Hydrogen Hilux Enters Demo Trials

Toyota’s U.K. production plant readies the automaker’s first hydrogen fuel-cell-powered Hilux pickup truck as a demonstrator of a market-ready new model.

Less than a year after the brand unveiled the first prototype vehicle, it now can supply demonstrators for pilot trials with chosen commercial operators.

A total of 10 fuel cell Hilux prototypes built at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing U.K. (TMUK) facility in Derby, England, are part of the trial project. At the moment five of the trucks are undergoing rigorous final field testing to assess safety, performance, functionality and durability while providing real-world test drive data in multiple situations. Five other vehicles are engaged in customer and media demonstrations, including two at the forthcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.

Toyota says it expects Europe to be one of the largest hydrogen fuel cell markets by 2030, with steady growth in mobility and power generation applications. Its fuel-cell Hilux project is seen as a stepping-stone to further develop hydrogen technology and to stimulate a wider roll-out of hydrogen ecosystems and infrastructure across Europe.

Its powertrain uses core elements from the Toyota Mirai and range for the Hilux is said to be up to 372 miles (599 km) before refueling at a much faster rate than a battery-electric vehicle. It also boasts a higher payload and towing capability thanks to a much lighter curb weight compared to a BEV equivalent.

Hydrogen is stored in three high-pressure fuel tanks, each containing 2.6 kg (5.7 lbs.) for a total system capacity of 7.8 kg (17.6 lb.). The tanks are mounted within the ladder frame chassis. Its polymer electrolyte fuel-cell stack contains 330 cells and is mounted above the front axle.

The truck is rear-wheel drive via an e-motor on the rear axle which delivers 182 hp of maximum power and 221 ft.-lb. (300 Nm) maximum torque. A lithium-ion hybrid battery, which stores the electricity produced on-board by the fuel cell, is placed in the rear load deck above the hydrogen tanks, avoiding any loss of cabin space.