Toyota introduces the new 2021 Mirai, but without a fuel network plan
Cars
Published on October 10, 2019 |
by Kyle Field
10. October 2019 by Kyle Field
This week, Toyota pulled the packages from the new Mirai 2021, with an impressive 30% increase thanks to a new and improved fuel cell stack paired with slightly larger hydrogen storage tanks. The new tanks have a total volume of 122.4 liters and can contain about 5 kilos of hydrogen when full.
Introduction of 2021 Toyota Mirai
2021 Mirai provides a much larger, smaller UFO-like building to the market that feels more like a luxurious Lexus than a compact Prius knockoff. Currently, Toyota does not share many of the details of the new Mirai other than exterior design and a few driveline specifications. Under the hood, the Toyota Fuel Cell stack again uses a polymer electrolyte fuel cell that boasts a power of 114 kilowatts. This is achieved by combining 370 individual fuel cells stacked in line to achieve optimum performance.
Power from the fuel cell can be directed directly to the electric motor if required or to a nickel-metal hydride battery on board. . This is the same battery chemistry on which Toyota built its class-leading hybrid Prius family of vehicles.
Production is nicely coupled with a 113 kW / 115 hp electric motor that will not wow current battery electric drivers, but comes with the same high torque – 335 Nm / 247 ft-lb of torque. Unfortunately, the implementation results in a very economical 0-60 mph time of 9.0 seconds. Toyota did not offer any powertrain for the new Mirai at this time, but the first-generation Mirai drove much like the Prius, but without the vibrations from the gasoline engine started and stopped. The low center of mass of the heavier Mirai keeps the vehicle attached to the ground and contributes to the slower 0-60 time.
A Beautiful Zero Emission Vehicle … With No Place To Fuel Up
The car will, strangely enough, come on the market without a clear plan to increase the fuel station network required to refuel the hydrogen powered vehicle. The move, or lack thereof, refers fuel cell cars to the same fabulous purgatory they have lived in since Mirai was first introduced in 2015. At that time, the US public hydrogen fuel network has been isolated to the hardcore zero emission vehicle (ZEV) standard state of California , which to date is home to only 38 of the stations.
Most of these stations are first generation hydrogen fuel stations with daily capacity in the range of 150 kg per day. Toyota confirmed that although the startup of new stations over the next few years may not look impressive, each includes newer fuel technology that can handle up to 500 kilos of hydrogen production per day. If fully utilized, it is enough to fill 100 of Mirai 2021 per day. It's not going to change the world, but it's a big step in the right direction for Toyota and the other FCEV manufacturers.
We will keep our eyes peeled for the full specs and interiors of the new Mirai in the flesh at the LA Auto Show next month, but until then, you can look at some photos from the Greensboro, North Carolina disclosure event earlier this week. Disclaimer: Travel and accommodation for CleanTechnica to participate in the disclosure event was paid by Toyota.
All Photos by Kyle Field | CleanTechnica
About the author
Kyle Field I am a tech geek passionate about looking for actionable ways to reduce the negative impact my life has on the planet, save money and reduce stress. Live on purpose, make conscious decisions, love more, act responsibly, play. The more you know, the less you need. TSLA-investor.
