Toyota has announced that it is working with partners in North America and Japan to extend its research and development of hydrogen-fuelled transport beyond cars to heavy-duty trucks and trains.

With the rapidly expanding interest in heavy-duty electric trucks, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and its subsidiary, Hino USA, will use the new Hino XL Series chassis with Toyota’s proven fuel cell technology to deliver transport systems without harmful emissions. This collaboration builds on the development of a 25-tonne fuel cell electric truck (FCET) for the Japanese market, announced earlier this year. The first demonstration vehicle is expected to be launched in the first half of 2021.

Tak Yokoo, Senior Executive Engineer at Toyota Research and Development said, “A fuel cell-powered version of the Hino XL Series is a win-win for both customers and the community. It will be quiet, smooth and powerful while emitting nothing but water. Toyota’s 20-plus years of fuel cell technology, combined with Hino’s heavy-duty truck experience, will create an innovative and capable product.”

Meanwhile, railway company JR East, Hitachi Ltd and the Toyota Motor Corporation have entered into an agreement to develop test railway vehicles equipped with hybrid systems that use hydrogen-powered fuel cells and storage batteries as their electric power source. By collaborating to develop these test railway vehicles, Toyota aims to help improve the environmental superiority of railways and help realise a carbon-free, sustainable society.

Photo: Hino XL