Toyota’s ground-breaking Mirai, the world’s first production hydrogen fuel cell sedan, enjoys a series of technology upgrades for 2024 with new and extended features and functions for safety, security, convenience and on-board connectivity and entertainment.

The package of enhancements reinforces the second generation Mirai’s status as a flagship model for the brand and for Toyota’s multi-path technology strategy for reducing and ultimately eliminating carbon emissions. The hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrain (FCEV) provides smooth, powerful and near silent performance, with no exhaust emissions other than pure water.

European sales of the 2024 Toyota Mirai will commence February. This summer Toyota will supply 500 zero-emission Mirai to support Paris 2024 as part of a fully electrified fleet of more than 2,650 passenger vehicles it is providing in its role as the worldwide mobility partner of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). After the Games these Mirai will remain in service with Paris’ hydrogen taxi fleet.

TOYOTA TEAMMATE SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE

Mirai adopts the latest Toyota Teammate safety and driver assistance features to provide more sophisticated accident detection and avoidance and reduce the burden placed on the driver.

Where the car’s Toyota Safety Sense systems are concerned, updated camera and radar hardware takes accident risk detection to a higher level. For example, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) can now recognise potential head-on collisions and the scope of its Intersection Collision Avoidance has widened so that it can respond to approaching traffic across two lanes and cyclists and vehicles approaching from the side.

Similarly, the hazards recognised by the Emergency Steering Assist now include motorcyclists, in addition to pedestrians, cyclists and parked vehicles. With the benefit of new acceleration suppression, there is a safeguard against sudden, unintended use of the throttle when travelling at low speed.

The Full Range Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) has been tuned for faster and more natural-feeling response and its curve speed reduction function is activated earlier, for smooth driving through a bend.

New Overtake Prevention Support prevents unintentional overtaking on the wrong side of a vehicle and Preliminary Deceleration/Turn Signal Linked Control helps the driver safely rejoin the traffic lane at an appropriate speed and distance from other vehicles.

The Lane Trace Assist (LTA) also has a more natural feel, recognising when the driver has moved out of lane while trying to avoid an obstacle and temporarily cancelling the Lane Departure Warning.

When the ACC and LTA are operating, an Emergency Driving Stop system monitors the driver’s use of the steering wheel and brake and accelerator pedals. If there are no inputs over a set time, it sounds a warning; if there’s no response from the driver, it will bring the car to a gentle halt and trigger the hazard lights.

Mirai further gains Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) which provides a series of automatic aids for safer driving at low speeds. These include Obstacle Anticipation Assist which gives steering and braking support to help the driver avoid approaching too close to obstacles ahead (such as parked vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists). Deceleration Assist provides smooth deceleration when the driver comes off the accelerator to slow down for a slower vehicle ahead, or when entering a bend; Steering Assist detects a bend ahead and adjusts steering force to help the driver adopt an appropriate steering angle.

For 2024, Mirai’s advanced driver assistance systems have been made standard across the range – a Blind Spot Monitor and a Panoramic View Monitor which gives the driver a 360-degree view of the area immediately around the car for safer and more precise manoeuvring.

MULTIMEDIA AND DIGITAL INNOVATION

The 2024 Mirai adopts Toyota’s sophisticated Smart Connect+ multimedia package, accessed via a new-look 12.3-inch touchscreen.

It provides access to cloud-based navigation that is constantly updated with live traffic information for efficient journey planning. In areas where connection to the cloud isn’t available, an additional, embedded navigation system can be used.

As an alternative to the touchscreen, the driver and front passenger can use voice commands and the “Hey Toyota” on-board assistant. The new system recognises conversational speaking style and can be used without the audio having to be turned off.  The audio package itself is a 14-speaker JBL premium sound system.

Smartphones can be integrated with the car’s multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection and all five USB ports in the cabin are now USB-C standard for device connection and charging.

REMOTE PARKING BY SMARTPHONE APP

Toyota is further exploring the convenience offered by smartphone apps with a new remote parking function. This allows the car to be smoothly and precisely positioned in tight parking spaces and can even be used by the driver when they are standing outside the vehicle.

DIGITAL KEY CONVENIENCE

During the second half of 2024, a digital key will be available for Mirai. Using a smartphone app, this can be used by up to five individuals to access and start the vehicle. It’s a completely convenient solution: the user only needs to have their smartphone on their person for the key to operate. As well as making it easier for family members or business associates to use the car without having to hand over a physical key, it can also be used when the vehicle needs to be accessed or collected for servicing or repair.

In its goal to achieve carbon neutrality, Toyota believes in a multi-path approach to mobility through a diverse range of battery electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, full hybrid vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. In this way, customers across all regions can benefit by having access to a range of zero and low-emission vehicles which best meet their needs.

The Toyota Mirai is a prime example of the company's commitment to offering zero-emission vehicles. This hydrogen fuel cell powered sedan,  combines the advantages of electric mobility with unequalled comfort of use, autonomy, and rapid recharging, demonstrates Toyota’s determination to decarbonise.

The Toyota Mirai fleet will be refuelled with hydrogen from renewable sources provided by Air Liquide, Official Hydrogen Supporter of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.

* London 2012,  Rio 2016

The cars are available in a new KINTO mobility station located at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, and as all other KINTO-cars, bookable via the KINTO-mobile app.

KINTO is part of Toyota’s global vision to provide all kinds of services related to the mobility of people, all around the world. KINTO Europe, established on 1st of April, was the latest step in the journey from mobility as a project to mobility as a business, with a view of truly delivering ‘Mobility for All’. In Europe, KINTO is already active in 10 countries: Germany, Italy, France, Spain, UK, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Portugal and is expanding quickly.

Toyota Mirai was first introduced in 2014 in Japan and has been available in Europe since 2016. The second generation Mirai was launched in Europe earlier this year and is equipped with Toyota’s latest fuel cell technology, making it lighter, more compact, more efficient and even cheaper than before. Johan Lundbland comments:

The 1003 zero-emission kilometres were driven on public roads, south of Paris and in the Loir-et-Cher and Indre-et-Loire areas, and the distance & consumption were certified by an independent authority.

Green hydrogen was used during the record attempt and the average fuel consumption was 0.55 kg/100km, with Mirai being able to store 5.6 kg of hydrogen.

The new Mirai demonstrated its efficiency and ease of driving

The new Mirai is the second-generation fuel cell electric vehicle from Toyota. It offers more performance, a sleeker and more dynamic design and new driving dynamics compared to the first-generation product.

In addition, the increased efficiency of the fuel cell system, together with higher hydrogen storage capacity and better aerodynamics, contribute to an increase of driving range to around 650 km under normal driving conditions, with less than 5 minutes refuelling time at a 700 bar refuelling station.

To achieve this 1003 km driving distance record, the drivers adopted an “eco-driving” style but no special techniques that could not be used by everyday drivers.

The Toyota Mirai and hydrogen at the heart of Beyond Zero

Beyond Zero highlights that zero emissions isn't Toyota’s destination.

It's simply a step in Toyota’s electrification journey to overcome barriers and build a better future for all: beyond emissions, beyond restrictions, beyond expectations and beyond barriers.

Mirai clearly demonstrates the ‘beyond emissions’ aspect by highlighting the advantages of zero emissions electric mobility whilst providing safety, comfort, extended range and ease of recharging.

Moreover, hydrogen, as a credible and abundant resource to transport and store energy, represents a strong opportunity for creating a better society.

Hydrogen can deliver zero-emission mobility, not only to road transport, but also to trains, boats and aircrafts, and to generate energy for industries, companies and households.

In that respect, Toyota supports many initiatives to democratise and diversify fuel cell applications: electric generators (EODev), boats (Hynova), taxis (Hype), buses (RATP and Caetano), trucks (Hino), the hydrogen city (Woven City) and other usages.

Record Achieved By 4 Drivers

The 4 drivers that completed the record attempt included Victorien Erussard, the founder and captain of Energy Observer.

Energy Observer, for which Toyota is a partner, is the first boat equipped with a Toyota fuel cell, is energy autonomous, zero emission and stands as a communication tool and as a research laboratory towards the energy transition. Energy Observer has now evolved into a company dealing with exploration and innovations. It recently presented its brand-new exhibition village dedicated to renewable energies and hydrogen in Paris.

During that event, the Eifel Tower was illuminated for the first time by green hydrogen, thanks to the GEH2® hydrogen generator developed by the EODev start-up organisation, of which Toyota is a shareholder.

James Olden, an engineer at Toyota Motor Europe, Maxime le Hir, Mirai product manager and Marie Gadd, PR manager of Toyota France were the other 3 drivers.

Statements

Frank Marotte, CEO of Toyota France

“It’s an amazing challenge that we achieved with the new Mirai. Internally, it is the mindset of Start your Impossible, going beyond our own limits, that drives us, and we proved it again today. I would like to thank the teams of Toyota France and Toyota Europe, as well as Victorien at Energy Observer, with whom we share the same vision and the same ambition. It is by strong partnerships that we will be able to contribute to a better and more environmentally-friendly society. With Toyota’s ambition to go ‘Beyond Zero’ in mind: take a seat for the future.”

Victorien Erussad, founder and captain of Energy Observer

“I am very happy to have taken this challenge of 1000 km beyond the wheel of the new Mirai. Toyota has always been at the forefront of hydrogen innovation and our collaboration gets stronger year by year. As a former open ocean racer, I need to take challenges and I warmly thank Frank Marotte and his teams to have taken me on this zero-emission adventure, showing that nothing is impossible and that hydrogen mobility is here today!”

Facts and figures

Distance travelled with one hydrogen fill: 1003 km

Average hydrogen consumption: 0.55 kg/100km

Range remaining (as indicated by on-board information system): 9 km

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Toyota began development of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles in 1992, successfully introducing the Mirai sedan to world markets in 2014. This breakthrough achievement was founded on the company’s world-leading experience in hybrid technology, the core technology for a wide range of different electrified vehicle powertrains.

The basic concept of hybrid power has successfully been adapted to produce hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV), battery electric (BEV) and – starting with the Mirai – fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). Each has qualities suited to different mobility requirements: for example, BEVs for shorter commutes and urban driving; HEVs and PHEVs for general and longer distance personal travel; and FCEVs for larger passenger cars, heavy-duty vehicles and public transport.

In 23 years of mass production, Toyota has sold more than 16 million hybrid vehicles worldwide, bringing the technology to the mainstream and helping save millions of tonnes of carbon emissions.

Now a new generation Mirai is being launched, a car that takes FCEV technology to a higher level and offers more emotional customer appeal in terms of dynamic, contemporary styling and more rewarding driving performance. A comprehensively redesigned fuel cell system, intelligent packaging and aerodynamic efficiency help extend the driving range to around 650 km, with no other emissions than pure water.

Increased hydrogen fuel cell system sales

The introduction of the new Mirai will see Toyota target deeper market penetration, supported by an increase in its hydrogen fuel cell production. As stated in Toyota Motor Europe’s Kenshiki Forum in December 2020 (see appendix below), the company expects global fuel cell system sales to increase 10-fold in the short term.

Growth in the Mirai’s sales will be supported by the new model’s stronger performance and greater customer appeal, notably as a more affordable vehicle with a selling price reduced by around 20%.

The practicality of hydrogen FCEV ownership will also steadily increase as markets improve their hydrogen infrastructure, the number of filling stations rises and Governments and local authorities introduce new incentives and regulations for cleaner mobility.

Chief Engineer Yoshikazu Tanaka

“Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) see hydrogen as an effective fuel for the future. Our aim is to help address environmental and energy issues through mass production of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). These use hydrogen to operate, are very efficient, can travel long distances, have fast refuelling times and emit only water. They have enormous potential as environmentally friendly cars, or ‘ultimate eco-cars’.

“In 2014, Toyota launched the Mirai as the world’s first commercial FCEV, hoping to contribute to the world by selling a car that it believed could become the driver of a hydrogen society for the next 100 years. To date, more than 10,000 have been sold worldwide. That first step helped open the doors to the hydrogen society and the FCEV market.

“However, because of slower than anticipated infrastructure development and resulting limits on the number of vehicles that can be introduced to the market, we are still only half-way to achieving widespread adoption of FCEVs. Additionally, customer feedback indicated the need for a longer cruising range and improved rear seat comfort. There, to increase the demand for FCEVs, we need a vehicle with better basic performance and appeal that encourages more customers to buy one, even if infrastructure constraints remain.

“We took all the customer feedback to heart and re-engineered the Mirai from the ground up, with the goal of creating a vehicle people would be excited to own. The development concept was ‘EDGE for a fun future’. This means the new Mirai was developed with goal of creating a vehicle full of appeal, with edgy individuality and an emotional dimension. The new Mirai comes with the latest and highest levels of safety features.

“We have worked to make a car that customers will want to drive all the time, a car that has an emotional and attractive design and the kind of dynamic and responsive performance that can bring a smile to the driver’s face. I want customers to say ‘I chose the Mirai simply because I wanted this car – it just happens to be an FCEV.’

“I hope the new Mirai demonstrates sustainable and bright possibilities for the world and our children’s future as it helps us achieve a hydrogen society.”

A New FCEV with Greater Emotional Appeal

• Focus on a more emotional design, increasing Mirai’s appeal beyond being an eco-car
• Exterior displays new aero proportions, with a low, wide and planted look
• Cabin design with focused driver’s cockpit and a warm, enfolding atmosphere featuring soft-touch materials and ambient lighting

One of the principals aims in the development of the new Mirai was to create a stronger emotional appeal, making it a car that people will be attracted to by its looks and the way it drives, as well its eco-performance. A more modern and striking design, use of Toyota’s new GA-L platform and advances in FCEV technologies have made this possible.

Exterior design

Toyota’s design mission focused on striking looks, moving away from the perception of Mirai’s styling being dictated by its eco-car status. The aim was to create an emotional design that would appeal to customers, rather than relying on it being desirable because it is an FCEV with an eco-image. The concept was developed on the theme of “Silent Dynamism”.

For the exterior there were three objectives:

• New aero proportions: a lower, wider rear-wheel drive platform and the use of larger diameter tyres.
• Wide front and rear stance with a low centre of gravity: a stance expressing stability and a solid grip of the road, with a nose that sits lower than headlamps. A low centre of gravity is emphasised by an under-bumper moulding and other exterior elements.
• From line-featured to mass-featured design: instead of using character lines to express individuality, the shaping of the bodywork itself conveys a sense of beauty with transitional surfaces and contrasting shadows.

At the front of the car, strong protruding corners give new Mirai solid proportions that emphasise its well-planted stance. The low-set look is also communicated by a bright moulding along the bottom edge of the trapezoidal lower grille and the positioning of the central Toyota emblem lower than the line of the LED headlights.

The front lighting is arranged in a two-tier design. On the upper tier, long and sharply formed headlight units – the largest yet featured on a Toyota car – flow into the sides of the vehicle; on the lower tier the long and slim turn indicator lamps emphasise the car’s width. The daytime running lights are arranged in an “L” shape and extend into the front wings, while the main headlight units have a bright plated surround that makes the Mirai easy to recognise, even from a distance.

According to model grade, the car is fitted with twin-lens bi-LEDs with an Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), or single lens bi-LEDS with Automatic High Beam function (AHB). Both units feature jet black extensions.

In side view, the new Mirai’s silhouette that flows seamlessly into the rear spoiler integrated in the boot lid. The dynamic flow of the design moves forward from the rear wheels, while the cylinder-shape cross-section of the doors narrows towards the front of the vehicle. The sculpted shapes and cross-sections emphasise a sense of motion.

Mid and High grade models are fitted with 19-inch wheels in a five-double-spoke design with a silver and bright silver finish respectively. The High+ grade has 20-inch black-painted rims with a turbine design.

Despite the high deck, the integrated boot lid spoiler creates a clear definition between the upper and lower sections of the car’s rear end, so avoiding a high-waisted look. The sense of the car sitting low to the ground is further emphasised by the dark trapezoidal lower bumper section, the arched angles of which are echoed in the lines extending from the lower rear corners to the horizontal rear light clusters.

The light units extend from left and right across the rear of the vehicle, meeting at the central Toyota badge. Their slim shape is emphasised by a dark finish for the lower turn indicator and reversing lights.

The exterior colour choices include a new multi-layered paint option, Force Blue, which produces contrasting depth of vividness and shadow across the bodywork.

A small detail reflects the new styling approach – the middle of the R in the Mirai badge has a sharp rather than a rounded angle.

Interior design

The Mirai’s cabin features a new concept that makes use of advanced components and expansive outlines that wrap around each occupant. Information sources and controls are brought together centrally in the instrument cluster in a layout optimised for operation.

The design team has challenged the sense that “advanced” should mean cold or clinical in design, using a combination of soft leathers, materials and metal textures to express the new Mirai’s relaxing and fun-to-drive character.

The cockpit area is an open space, but focuses the attention with a design continuity that unifies the 12.3-inch multimedia screen with the driver’s instrument display. The elements are set adjacent to each other and on the same level, making it effortless for the driver to take in information at a glance. The effect is heightened in models fitted with a colour head-up display.

Design coherency is reflected in control switches being kept small and having a uniform size and shape, with a concave surface that makes them simple to locate by touch alone. For ease of operation, they are grouped in different zones according to their function. For heating and ventilation, the number of switches has been reduced and these are arranged in a slim, horizontal control panel in the centre console, with additional functions accessed using the multimedia display screen.

The high-definition TFT screen can be toggled into separate sections for concurrent display of the navigation map and function controls, to the left or right side. It can be operated using familiar smartphone-style touch controls, such as flick, swipe and pinch to zoom in or out.

The driver’s seat is designed to give the sense of being enveloped, while for the front passenger the environment is more open. The clean and uncluttered surface of the instrument panel extends the width of the passenger side of the cabin and is finished with a soft, leather-like covering. The upper panel surface has a perforated finish around the screen air vents and audio speakers. This textured motif is repeated elsewhere in the cabin.

The front edge of the instrument panel is accentuated by a high-quality metallic trim that contrasts with the soft padded surface. This flows in an unbroken line along the top of the slim, horizontally arranged air vents, before running down the far edge of the centre console. On the High+ grade Mirai, the trim is available in a new warm copper finish; on other grades it is in satin silver.

The three-spoke steering wheel is trimmed in black leather and has auxiliary switches clustered in three groups for infotainment, driving assistance (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist) and audio/phone.

On the Mid grade model, the seats are upholstered in black fabric, while black synthetic leather is used in the High grade model; both come with a matching black instrument panel finish. The High+ grade features semi-aniline leather in black or white, the latter with a white instrument panel covering and copper trim line.

Chassis and Fuel Cell System

• New Mirai constructed on Toyota’s GA-L rear-wheel drive platform
• A five-seat model, longer, wider, lower and with a longer wheelbase
• Fuel cell stack more compact, lighter in weight and more powerful, relocated to the car’s front compartment
• New lithium-ion battery with higher energy density
• Repackaging of components allows for three high-pressure hydrogen tanks to be used, increasing fuel capacity and driving range

New Toyota GA-L platform

In building the new Mirai on its modular GA-L platform, Toyota has been able to change Mirai from a four-seat front-wheel drive car to a comfortable five-seat model with rear-wheel drive.

The new car is longer (+85 mm) and wider (+70 mm) than its predecessor, and has a longer wheelbase (+140 mm) but its height has been reduced (-65 mm). The front and rear tracks have also been increased (+75 and +60 mm respectively).

Adopting the GA-L platform has allowed the fuel cell stack and drivetrain components to be repackaged in a way that makes more efficient use of space. The result is a more spacious, cabin and a better chassis balance. Significantly, it enables three high-pressure hydrogen tanks to be fitted, increasing fuel capacity and the car’s driving range by 30%.

The tanks are arranged in a “T” configuration, the longest running longitudinally and centrally beneath the vehicle floor, with two smaller tanks set transversely beneath the rear seats and luggage compartment. Together they can hold 5.6 kg of hydrogen, compared to 4.6 kg in the previous Mirai’s two tanks. Their position contributes to the car’s lower centre of gravity.

The new architecture also permits the all-new hydrogen fuel cell to be moved from its previous location beneath the floor to the front compartment (equivalent to the engine bay), while the (more compact) high-voltage battery and electric motor are positioned above the rear axle. As explained below, powertrain layout has been optimised to give new Mirai a 50:50 front:rear weight distribution.

The tanks have a stronger, multi-layer construction and are highly weight-efficient – the hydrogen accounts for 6% of the combined weight of the fuel and tanks.

New hydrogen fuel cell stack

Toyota’s new fuel cell stack and fuel cell power converter (FCPC) have been developed specifically for use with the GA-L platform. The designers have been able to bring all the elements together in the stack frame (including the water pumps, intercooler, air conditioning and air compressors and the hydrogen recirculation pump) with each part made smaller and lighter, while at the same time improving performance. The stack case itself has been made smaller by using Friction Stir Welding, reducing the gap between the fuel cell and casing.

The packaging improvements have made it possible to relocate the FC stack in the Mirai’s front compartment (engine bay), helping realise the benefits of an optimum 50:50 front:rear weight balance. On the previous generation model, the unit was beneath the front seat

The fuel cell stack uses a solid polymer, as in the previous Mirai, but has been made smaller and has fewer cells (330 instead of 370). Its weight bas been brought down from 56 to 52 kg. As well as achieving savings in size and weight, it also sets a new record for specific power density at 5.4 kW/l (4.4 kW/l excluding end plates). Maximum power from the FC stack has consequently been increased from 155 DIN hp/114 kW to 174 DIN hp/128 kW. Cold weather performance has been improved with start-up now possible at temperatures from as low as -30˚C.

By concentrating the system connections within the case, fewer components are needed, again saving space and weight.

Focusing on innovation and improvement in every component has delivered a 42% weight reduction yet a 12% increase in power. New measures include relocation of the manifold, reducing the size and weight of the cell optimising the shape of the gas channel separator and using innovative materials in the electrodes.

The unit also incorporates the Fuel Cell DC-DC Converter (FDC) and modular high-voltage parts, while achieving a 21% reduction in size compared to the current system. Weight has been cut by 2.9 kg to 25.5 kg. Advanced technology has contributed to the space-saving, with Toyota’s first-time use of a next generation silicon carbide semiconductor material in the intelligent power model (IPM) transistors. This enables an increase in output and lower power consumption while using fewer transistors, which in turn allows the FCPC to be made smaller.

The same size and weight-saving approach has been applied to other parts of the FC stack. The air intake is designed for low pressure loss and contains sound-absorbing material so that noise from the air inlets is unnoticeable in the cabin. The exhaust uses a resin pipe and is designed to allow for a large amount of air and water to be discharged; a larger-capacity silencer contributes to the quieter cabin. The complete air system is almost 30% smaller than in the previous Mirai and weighs more than a third (34.4%) less.

Lithium-ion high-voltage battery

The new Mirai is equipped with lithium-ion high-voltage battery in place of the previous nickel-metal hydride unit. Although smaller in size, it is more energy-dense, giving higher output and superior environmental performance. Containing 84 cells, it has a 310.8 V rated voltage compared to the NiMH unit’s 244.8 V, and a 4.0 Ah capacity, versus 6.5 Ah. Overall weight has been reduced from 46.9 to 44.6 kg. The peak output has improved from 25.5 kW x 10 seconds to 31.5 kW x 10 seconds.

The battery’s smaller dimensions have allowed it to be positioned behind the rear seats, avoiding intrusion in the load compartment. An optimised air-cooling path has been designed, with discreet inlets either side of the rear seats.

Dynamic Performance

• New GA-L platform provides the foundation for a more rigid body, improving the car’s responsiveness and stability
• Repackaging of fuel cell, high-voltage battery, electric motor and fuel tanks gives an ideal 50:50 weight balance
• New multi-link suspension design
• Total power of 134 kW/182 DIN hp
• Improved acceleration response, fuel economy and driving range

Handling and stability benefits of the new GA-L platform

The adoption of the GA-L platform gives the car the fundamental benefits of a lower centre of gravity, improved inertia characteristics and significantly increased body rigidity, all of which help deliver superior dynamic performance.

With the fuel cell stack moved from beneath the vehicle floor to the front compartment (details above) and the battery and electric motor positioned over the rear axle, a 50:50 front:rear weight balance has been achieved, giving it the stability characteristics of a front-engine car.

The rigidity of the body has been increased with strategic bracing and reinforcements, using aluminium and ultra-high-tensile steel to keep the car’s weight down. The key improvements include additional bracing for the front compartment; use of die-cast aluminium for the front suspension towers; a larger rocker cross-section for better twisting and bending rigidity; and a ring structure for the cowl and instrument panel reinforcement. Additional cross-members have been added to the floor to improve twisting rigidity and a continuous flange structure is used improve joint rigidity in the frame connection parts. The rear body frame is new and includes a new rear suspension tower.

The wider application of body adhesives and the use of laser screw welding add to car’s rigidity and better handling responsiveness.

More rewarding driving experience

The extra power produced by the Mirai’s fuel cell stack and battery are harnessed for smooth, linear take-off, with acceleration harmonised with the driver’s use of the throttle. Instant torque and maximum acceleration are provided from start-up, and a significant improvement in the mid-range acceleration curve communicates a more rewarding driving feel to the driver.

Highway driving is relaxed and stress-free, with excellent response available at all speeds. When driving on winding, open roads, new Mirai’s poise is combined with good acceleration out of corners.

The driver can select a brake driving mode to replicate the effect of engine braking using a manual transmission. This provides stronger deceleration and regenerative braking when speed control is needed, for example on a long downhill gradient. The function can be cancelled simply by pressing the accelerator pedal.

Active Sound Control

To give the driver a greater sense of connection to the car and of its performance, an Active Sound Control system issues sounds from dedicated speakers in the cabin in response to the driver’s use of the accelerator pedal.

Improvements in performance and efficiency

With the increase in power, the Mirai’s acceleration from 0-100 km/h has improved by 0.6 seconds to 9.0 seconds; top speed is 175 km/h.

Despite the higher output, fuel economy is improved: WLTP combined cycle performance gives 0.79 kg/100 km with 19-inch wheels and 0.89 kg/100 km with 20-inch wheels. This compares to the 0.94 kg/100 km achieved by the previous generation model. The rise in fuel efficiency and the larger combined capacity of the three fuel tanks, increased from 4.6 to 5.6 kg, ensure the new Mirai can cover greater distances between refuelling stops – around 650 km. The refuelling process is simple and should take just five minutes or less.

Active Cornering Assist

Active Cornering Assist automatically improves the car’s stability in high-speed cornering, applying braking force to the inside rear wheel so that drive torque is increased on the outer rear wheel, creating a yaw moment and minimising understeer. As a result, the Mirai maintains a faithful line with one of the best possible cornering limits.

Braking control in high-speed cornering helps prevent the car “tucking in” if the driver takes their foot off the accelerator, maintaining stability and reducing the risk of an oversteer spin. When driving in high cross-winds, the system will again apply braking force to create an anti-yaw moment, keeping the car stable and true to its course.

New multilink suspension

The rear-wheel drive platform accommodates new multilink front and rear suspension, in place of the previous front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam arrangement. This set-up – high-mounted at the front, low-mounted at the rear – provides a high level of stability, controllability and ride comfort. Details include the use of thicker anti-roll bars, optimal upper and lower ball joint location and overall high suspension rigidity, yielding rewards in terms of responsiveness and stability.

Wheels and tyres

Further benefits are gained from larger wheels and tyres. The 19 and 20-inch alloy rims are fitted with 235/55 R19 and 245/45 R20 tyres respectively, with low rolling resistance and quiet running, contributing to fuel efficiency, handling quality, stability and a quiet cabin environment. Using larger diameter wheels and tyres helps secure the space required for the new triple hydrogen fuel tanks in the lower part of the platform.

Braking system

The Mirai has a new, more powerful braking system, with ventilated discs with four-pot fixed callipers at the front and ventilated discs with a two-pot fixed calliper at the rear. An electric parking brake is standard.

Aerodynamic improvements

The car’s improved aerodynamics plays its part too in raising the quality of handling and stability, and achieving the longer cruising range. The flush side bodywork surfaces help regulate a smooth flow of air over the car, aided by flat surfaces just forward of the wheels and aero stabilising fins on the leading edge of the front side windows. The front and rear wing liners have beading to help streamline the flow of air in the wheel arches to promote stability and controllability.

The convergence of the airflow over and along the car to the rear is managed by its shape in silhouette, a slimming down of the side surfaces towards the rear and the precise shaping of the lower bumper moulding. The rear window and boot lid are set at the optimum angle for aerodynamic efficiency and a new, flat underbody cover has been introduced to reduce air resistance, contributing to the car’s extended driving range. Airflow from beneath the car is directed into the rear oil cooler vent with a negative air pressure difference feeding the air downwards.

Advanced Safety and Equipment Features

• Latest generation Toyota Safety Sense provided as standard
• Toyota air filter innovation cleans the air of harmful particulates as you drive
• Advanced equipment specifications including digital rear-view mirror

Toyota Safety Sense

The new Mirai is equipped as standard with the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense. This provides a series of active safety and driver assistance systems designed to help prevent a number of common accident risks and provide superior protection to driver and passengers, should an impact happen.

In addition to motor traffic, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) is able to detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path in day and night-time driving, and bicycle riders during daylight. The system also provides additional safeguards when making a left or right turn at a road junction, detecting oncoming traffic, or pedestrians crossing the road into which the vehicle is turning. Visual and audible alerts are sounded; if the driver does not react, automatic braking is initiated.

The PCS also has an Emergency Steering Assist function. If it determines that a collision is likely, and that there is sufficient room in the vehicle’s lane to avoid an impact, it will provide steering assistance, while maintaining vehicle stability and preventing lane departure.

It will also help guard against the risk of an impact if driver puts excessive pressure on the accelerator when driving at low speeds. It will suppress engine output or lightly apply the brakes to suppress acceleration.

The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (iACC) has an all-speed tracking function and will automatically calculate if speed needs to be reduced when driving through a bend. Speed suppression will operate from the moment the steering wheel begins to turn, continuing until the angle returns to the straight-ahead.

The iACC works with the Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to help keep the car centred in its traffic lane. If the car deviates from its lane without the turn indicators being used, LDA/LTA will sound and display and alert and trigger steering wheel vibration, Steering assistance will then be applied if required to help return the vehicle to its correct path.

To improve lane-keeping performance the LTA’s operation has been improved to give higher resolution detection through pinion angle (motor-rotation angle)-based control. This also helps prevent the driver becoming over-confident and possibly taking their hands off the steering wheel.

The system works through gentle bends, as well as on straight highway sections, and can recognise road margins if the line markings on the road surface are obscured or absent. The lane departure warning and prevention functions also operate when the iACC is switched off.

The Mirai’s LED headlight system is equipped with Automatic High Beam (AHB), on Mid grade and an Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) on higher grades. The Road Sign Assist (RSA) system keeps the driver alert to principal road sign commands and warnings, presenting them as images on the multi-information display and (where fitted) head-up display. The system also works with the iACC to automatically keep the car within the speed limits enforced in the course of a journey.

Additional safety features include a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto brake and Intelligent Clearance Sonars front and rear.

Fuel tank safety

The Mirai is built with a collision safety structure designed to protect vehicle occupants, the fuel cell stack and the hydrogen tanks in the event of an impact. A strong body frame minimises cabin deformation, channelling and absorbing impact forces.

To address the features specific to an FCEV, aluminium members are integrated in the fuel cell stack structure, with energy-absorbing parts at the front to mitigate the effects of a front-end impact.

Sensors throughout the car will immediately detect any leak of hydrogen from the fuel tanks and illuminate a warning light in the driver’s instrument display. All three tanks are located outside the cabin space, so any escaping gas will quickly disperse in the environment.

The tanks have a resin lining to prevent the permeation of hydrogen. On the outside they are coated with a light and strong reinforced carbon fibre resin. In the unlikely event of a fire or increased temperature inside the tanks, a safety valve will automatically release the gas to avoid rupture.

Cleaning the air as you drive

A Toyota innovation, a catalyst-type filter is incorporated in the air intake. As air is drawn into the vehicle to supply the fuel cell, an electric charge on the non-woven fabric filter element captures microscopic particles of pollutants, including sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrous oxides (NOx) and PM 2.5 particulates. The system is effective in removing 90 to 100% of particles between 0 and 2.5 microns in diameter from the air as it passes into the fuel cell system.

Water is the only by-product from the fuel cell process and it is automatically discharged through a waste pipe. The driver can activate water discharge using the H2O switch. The system can be linked to the car’s navigation to prevent water being released in inappropriate locations, such as car parks.

Digital rear-view mirror and Panoramic View Monitor

A digital rear-view mirror is featured in the Mirai High+ grade. This can be switched from normal optical view to digital mode, presenting real-time images from the car’s rear camera. This removes any obstructions in the driver’s line of sight, such as head rests, luggage or other vehicle occupants.

The Panoramic View Monitor (High and High+ grades) presents a view of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings on the central multimedia screen, as seen from above the car. This gives the driver a clear, all-round view that would be difficult to achieve from the driver’s seat alone. The system includes a See-through View function that shows an image as if looking through the vehicle to the outside; this provides extra support when checking for obstacles or other traffic when parking or at junctions.

When reversing, the rear camera presents an image with dynamic guidelines to help the driver make the correct steering manoeuvres. The lens for the camera and digital rear-view mirror is kept clean with a link to the rear washer system.

Windscreen wiper operation

The timing of the windscreen washer operation has been accurately tuned to take into account the wiper position, vehicle speed and external air temperature. Optimal spraying ensures good visibility is maintained. The wipers have a lower-set stop position, adding to the Mirai’s sleek frontal appearance.

Head-up Display

The colour head-up display projects principal driving, navigation and safety information and graphics in an area 560 mm wide and 130 mm high on the windscreen in the driver’s eyeline. The perspective gives the effect of the image being 2.6 m ahead. High brightness ensures the display is clearly visible, including in full daylight.

Ambient lighting

The inviting cabin atmosphere is enhanced by an ambient lighting system (on High and High+ grade models) that provides gentle illumination in the footwells, the lower dashboard, the centre console cupholders, the door handles and the door switch panel. The lighting can be changed through eight different colours to create different effects to suit the driver’s mood and the occasion. The footwell lights remain in Clear Blue at all times.

Centre Console

New Mirai’s wider centre console (+150 mm) contains two cupholders, the console box with two USB ports, the shift lever, drive mode select control and the electronic parking brake switch. On the High+ grade model, there is also a wireless mobile phone charger. On the rear of the unit there are two USB ports and a 100 V power outlet.

Equipment grades and specifications

For European markets, the new Mirai is available in three equipment grades: Mid, High and High+ (specification details and names may vary according to market). Each reflects the new car’s advanced technology with a range of new features for on-board comfort, information, connectivity and style.

The Mid grade specification includes 19-inch silver alloy wheels, multimedia system with 12.3-inch control screen, bi-LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, dual-zone air conditioning with remote control, heated front seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, smart entry and push button start and eight-inch TFT multi-information display.

The High grade Mirai comes with bright silver 19-inch wheels, synthetic leather seat upholstery, wireless phone charger, Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto brake, rear privacy glass, Intelligent Clearance Sonar, heated steering wheel and ambient cabin lighting with eight colour choices.

The High+ specification builds on this with the addition of black 20-inch alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof (fixed), head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, semi-aniline leather seat upholstery, triple-zone air conditioning, heated and ventilated front and outer rear seats, rear seat passenger control panel and the Advanced Park automated parking system.

Automated parking

The Advanced Park system, featured as standard on the Mirai High+ grade, is an automated system for safe, precise and simple parallel and adjacent parking manoeuvres. It references thousands of different parking patterns, analysing distance, entry angles, vehicle speed and operation sequence, controlling the car’s steering, acceleration, forward and reverse gear selection, and braking.

To use the system, the driver stops the Mirai next to the parking space and presses the Advance Park switch in the centre console. It then uses the Panoramic View Monitor and Intelligent Clearance Sonars to assess the space and nearby vehicles and obstacles. The driver should also check the area for safety before confirming the parking space by pressing the on-screen start icon to initiate the parking manoeuvre. If the system detects an obstacle, it will brake the car and sound an alert.

Advanced Park is able to store details of frequently used parking spaces in its memory, such as at home or work. It can then provide automatic parking in these locations, regardless of whether there are white line markings delineating the space.

Toyota makes its Fuel Cell Technology available to commercial partners to accelerate progress towards a Hydrogen Society

• With fast-expanding interest and investment in hydrogen fuel cell technology, low carbon benefits can be realised in a wide range of applications
• Toyota establishes new European Fuel Cell Business Group to support and stimulate this growth
• The company’s fuel cell technology is evolving rapidly in terms of capability, lower costs and convenient packaging
• Toyota expects global hydrogen fuel cell system sales to increase 10-fold in the short term

The launch of the new Mirai in Europe coincides with new actions by Toyota to help accelerate progress towards a hydrogen society by making its fuel cell technology available for a wide range of applications.

The potential of hydrogen to help achieve a future zero-emissions society, as set out in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), is generating fast-growing interest and investment around the world, with businesses and consumers alike becoming ever more aware of the benefits it can deliver, across a wide range of applications.

To maximise the opportunities for hydrogen in Europe, Toyota Motor Europe (TME) has established a Fuel Cell Business Group to oversee its hydrogen activities across the region. Based in Brussels, it will strengthen the business case for hydrogen and support its introduction into mobility and other fields, making it accessible to new commercial partners. This will support the company’s long-term sustainability strategy, in order to have a deeper impact on the SDGs.

Speaking at Toyota’s Kenshiki forum in December 2020, Thiebault Paquet, Director of the Fuel Cell Business Group said: “The benefits of hydrogen are clear. That’s why we expect our global sales of fuel cell systems to increase by a factor of 10 in the short term, and why we have dramatically increased our production capacity.

“Toyota is leading the way with strong investment in the hydrogen society, through next generation vehicles, the opening of new markets and technology applications, in extra fuel cell production capacity and in our organisation here in Europe.”

Toyota is at the forefront of hydrogen technology innovation, having introduced Mirai, the world’s first commercialised hydrogen fuel cell electric saloon, in 2014. Since then, development of the Toyota fuel cell system has continued, making it more compact, lighter, and yet also more energy-dense. Now, in early 2021, the comprehensively improved system is making its debut in the all-new, second generation Mirai.

Toyota’s technology has the flexibility to be used not just in cars but to produce zero-emission power in multiple applications. It is already powering trucks, urban bus fleets, fork lifts and generators. Tests are also under way for its use in boats and trains.

To accelerate hydrogen’s widespread take-up, Toyota will focus on hydrogen “clusters” or eco-systems in European centres where a local infrastructure is supporting transport fleets and mobility services. It believes activity like this will drive demand for hydrogen, bringing down costs and strengthening the viability of the supply infrastructure, which in turn will attract more customers.

Through the new Fuel Cell Business Group, Toyota will work closely with industry partners, national and regional governments and organisations to stimulate the development of hydrogen eco-systems in more locations and progress towards the goal of a hydrogen society for the benefit of all.

Toyota began development of a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle in 1992, successfully introducing the Mirai sedan to world markets in 2014. This breakthrough achievement was founded on the company’s world-leading experience in hybrid technology, the core technology for a wide range of different electrified vehicle powertrains.

The basic concept of hybrid power has successfully been adapted to produce Hybrid Electric (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV), Battery Electric (BEV) and – starting with the Mirai – Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV). Each has qualities suited to different mobility requirements: for example, BEVs for shorter commutes and urban driving; HEVs and PHEVs for general and longer distance personal travel; and FCEVs for larger and heavier passenger cars, heavy-duty vehicles and public transport.

Now a new generation Mirai is being launched, a car that takes FCEV technology to a higher level and offers more emotional customer appeal in terms of dynamic, contemporary styling and more rewarding driving performance. A comprehensively redesigned fuel cell system, intelligent packaging and aerodynamic efficiency help extend the driving range to around 650 km, with no other emissions than pure water.

Improvements in performance and design

In developing the new Mirai, Toyota was committed to delivering all-round improvements to increase customer appeal, from its performance capabilities to the way it looks and drives.

A priority has been to improve its driving range compared to the first generation model and going beyond the distances typically achieved by battery electric vehicles. Increased power and hydrogen fuel capacity, improved efficiency and better aerodynamics all contribute to extending the driving range by 30% to around 650 km. This gives the new Mirai a genuine long-distance driving capability.

Packaging has also been significantly improved with new Mirai built on Toyota’s modular GA-L platform. A more efficient and well-balanced arrangement of the new FCEV powertrain – notably with the fuel cell stack moved from beneath the cabin to the front compartment – has allowed for a more spacious, five-seat interior with improved legroom for rear seat passengers.

The new Mirai also displays more attractive vehicle proportions: overall height has been reduced by 65 mm to 1,470 mm, and there is a 140 mm increase in the wheelbase (2,920 mm). With the rear overhang extended by 85 mm, overall vehicle length is now 4,975 mm. A 75 mm increase in the track width and the use of larger, 19 and 20-inch wheels add to the lower and more dynamic stance and visual sense of the new Mirai’s lower centre of gravity.

More emotional customer appeal

One of the principal aims for the new Mirai has been to give the car a stronger emotional appeal, making it a car that people will be attracted to by its looks and the way it drives, as well its eco-performance. The new GA-L platform and Toyota’s advances in FCEV technologies have made this possible.

GA-L platform

Adopting the GA-L platform has allowed the fuel cell stack and drivetrain components to be repackaged in a way that makes more efficient use of space. The result is a more spacious, five-seat cabin and a better chassis balance. Perhaps most significantly, it enables three high-pressure hydrogen tanks to be fitted, increasing fuel capacity and the car’s driving range – by 30%.

The tanks are arranged in a “T” configuration, the longest running longitudinally and centrally beneath the vehicle floor, with two smaller tanks set laterally beneath the rear seats and luggage compartment. Together they can hold 5.6 kg of hydrogen, compared to 4.6 kg in the current Mirai’s two tanks. Their position contributes to the car’s lower centre of gravity and avoids compromising load space.

The new architecture also permits the all-new hydrogen fuel cell to be moved from its current location beneath the floor to the front compartment (equivalent to the engine bay), while the (more compact) high-voltage battery and electric motor are positioned above the rear axle. As explained below, powertrain layout has been optimised to give new Mirai a 50:50 front:rear weight distribution.

The tanks have a stronger, multi-layer construction and are highly weight-efficient – the hydrogen accounts for 6% of the combined weight of the fuel and tanks.

New fuel cell stack

Toyota’s new fuel cell stack and fuel cell power converter (FCPC) have been developed specifically for use with the GA-L platform. The designers have been able to bring all the elements together in the stack frame (including the water pumps, intercooler, air conditioning and air compressors and the hydrogen recirculation pump) with each part made smaller and lighter, while at the same time improving performance. The stack case itself has been made smaller by using Friction Stir Welding, reducing the gap between the fuel cell and casing.

The fuel cell stack uses a solid polymer, as in the current Mirai, but has been made smaller and has fewer cells (330 instead of 370). Nonetheless, it sets a new record for specific power density at 5.4 kW/l (excluding end plates). Maximum power has thus risen from 114 kW to 128 kW. Cold weather performance has been improved with start-up now possible at temperatures from as low as -30˚.

By concentrating the system connections within the case, fewer components are needed, again saving space and weight.

Focusing on innovation and improvement in every component has delivered a 50% weight reduction yet a 12% increase in power. New measures include relocation of the manifold, reducing the size and weight of the cell optimising the shape of the gas channel separator and using innovative materials in the electrodes.

The unit also incorporates the Fuel Cell DC-DC Converter (FDC) and modular high-voltage parts, while achieving a 21% reduction in size compared to the current system. Weight has been cut by 2.9 kg to 25.5 kg. Advanced technology has contributed to the space-saving, with Toyota’s first-time use of a next generation silicon carbide semiconductor material in the intelligent power model (IPM) transistors. This enables an increase in output and lower power consumption while using fewer transistors, which in turn allows the FCPC to be made smaller.

The same size and weight-saving approach has been applied to other parts of the FC stack. The air intake is designed for low pressure loss and contains sound-absorbing material so that noise from the air inlets is unnoticeable in the cabin. The exhaust uses a resin pipe and is designed to allow for a large amount of air and water to be discharged; a larger-capacity silencer contributes to the quieter cabin. The complete air system is almost 30% smaller than in the current Mirai and weighs more than a third (34.4%) less.

Lithium-ion battery

The new Mirai is equipped with lithium-ion high-voltage battery in place of the current model’s nickel-metal hydride unit. Although smaller in size, it is more energy-dense, giving higher output and superior environmental performance. Containing 84 cells, it has a 310.8 rated voltage compared to 244.8, and a 4.0 Ah capacity, versus 6.5 Ah. Overall weight has been reduced from 46.9 to 44.6 kg. The output has improved from 25.5 kW x 10 seconds to 31.5 kW x 10 seconds.

The battery’s smaller dimensions have allowed it to be positioned behind the rear seats, avoiding intrusion in the load compartment. An optimised air-cooling path has been designed, with discreet inlets either side of the rear seats.

Dynamic performance

The adoption of the GA-L platform for the new Mirai gives the car fundamental benefits of a lower centre of gravity, improved inertia characteristics and significantly increased body rigidity, all of which help deliver superior dynamic performance.

With the fuel cell stack moved from beneath the vehicle floor to the front compartment and the battery and electric motor positioned at the rear, a 50:50 front:rear weight balance has been achieved, giving it the fundamental stability characteristics of a front-engine car.

The rigidity of the body has been increased with strategic bracing and reinforcements, the wider application of body adhesives and the use of laser screw welding.

The new platform also accommodates new multilink front and rear suspension, in place of the previous front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam arrangement. This set-up provides a high level of stability, controllability and ride comfort. Details include the use of thicker anti-roll bars, optimal upper and low ball joint location and overall high suspension rigidity, yielding rewards in terms of responsiveness and stability.

Further benefits are gained from new Mirai’s use of larger wheels and tyres. The 19 and 20-inch wheels are fitted with 235/55 R19 and 245/45 R20 tyres respectively, with low rolling resistance and quiet running, contributing to fuel efficiency, handling quality, stability and a quiet cabin environment. Using larger diameter wheels and tyres helps secure the space required for the new triple hydrogen fuel tanks.

The car’s improved aerodynamics, with a lower roof line, full under cover and lower drag coefficient figure, plays its part too in raising the quality of handling and stability, and achieving the longer cruising range.

New Mirai also delivers rewards from its improved driving character. The extra power produced by the new fuel cell stack and battery are harnessed for smooth, linear take-off, with acceleration harmonised with the driver’s use of the throttle. Highway driving is relaxed and stress-free, with excellent response available at all speeds. When driving on winding, open roads, new Mirai’s poise is combined with good acceleration out of bends.

Cleaning the air as you drive

The environmental benefit of driving the Toyota Mirai go beyond zero emissions to “negative emissions” – the car effectively cleans the air as it moves.

A Toyota innovation, a catalyst-type filter is incorporated in the air intake. As air is drawn into the vehicle to supply the fuel cell, an electric charge on the non-woven fabric filter element captures microscopic particles of pollutants, including sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrous oxides (NOx) and PM 2.5 particulates. The system is effective in removing 90 to 100% of particles between 0 and 2.5 microns in diameter from the air as it passes into the fuel cell system.

Targeting a 10-fold increase in sales

The introduction of the new Mirai will see Toyota target deeper market penetration with a 10-fold expansion in sales volume. This growth will be supported by the new model’s stronger performance and greater customer appeal, notably as a more affordable vehicle with a selling price reduced by around 20%.

The practicality of hydrogen FCEV ownership will also steadily increase as markets improve their hydrogen infrastructure, the number of filling stations rises and Governments and local authorities introduce new incentives and regulations for cleaner mobility.

The new B-SUV combines elevated ground clearance with an intelligent all-wheel drive system and Toyota’s latest hybrid technology.

Toyota’s latest SUV will be revealed during its press conference, which takes place at 11:15 on the Toyota stand in Hall 4 on Mar 3^rd

There will also be European motor show debuts for the new Yaris and the new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid.

And the all-new Mirai makes its European motor show debut in a dedicated area highlighting Toyota’s commitment to a future hydrogen society.

The Gazoo Racing area features the new GR Yaris displayed alongside the new GR Supra 2.0, the latest 2020 WRC Yaris and Fernando Alonso’s 2020 Dakar Hilux.

The press conference will be broadcasted live on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wki5wGdIzhM

Mirai has been a catalyst for increasing global awareness of how a future clean and sustainable hydrogen society might be achieved. It is a car that is technically sophisticated, yet eminently practical with a driving range of around 500 km, easy refuelling in a matter of minutes and no emissions other than pure water. Since launch, around 10,000 have been sold, while Toyota has actively supported the development of hydrogen fuel infrastructure in key markets worldwide.

This has been just the beginning: at the 2019 Tokyo Motor show, Toyota provided an early glimpse of the advances it is making across the board with the new Mirai, in terms of technical excellence, dynamic performance, and desirable design.

Scheduled for launch in late 2020, initially in Japan, North America and Europe, the new Mirai will be much more than an eco-car, showing how its FCEV technology is no barrier to creating a vehicle that is rewarding to drive and beautiful to look at.

Efficiency is still a critical area, and Toyota is targeting a 30% increase in the Mirai’s driving range through improvements to the fuel cell system and the use of larger on-board hydrogen tanks. There are now three tanks – one long, two short – which together increase the fuel capacity by around one kilogram of Hydrogen compared to the current model.

Yoshikazu Tanaka, the new Mirai’s Chief Engineer, said: “We have pursued the goal of making a car that customers will feel they want to drive all time, a car that has an emotional and attractive design and the kind of dynamic and responsive performance that can bring a smile to the driver’s face.

“I want customers to say ‘I chose the Mirai not just because it’s an FCEV, but because I simply wanted this car; it just happens to be an FCEV.’ We will continue our development work focusing on that feeling, and we hope that with the new Mirai we will be a leader in helping realise a hydrogen energy society.”

The new Mirai’s immediate impact is in its exterior design, with low lines, elegant proportions, sleek, taut bodywork and large, 20-inch diameter wheels that together generate a powerful and distinctive look.

The interior has been conceived as a simple, modern space with a warm, comfortable ambience that adds to the sense this is a car that’s genuinely enjoyable to drive and travel in. Key elements include a 12.3-inch centre display and an instrument panel that wraps around the driver. The platform and intelligent packaging allow for five seats to be provided in place of the current Mirai’s four.

The freedom to craft a more emotional and head-turning design has been one of the benefits of new Mirai being constructed on Toyota’s latest rear wheel drive modular platform, which was engineered to accommodate different powertrains – including a hydrogen fuel cell – at the outset. It further gives the new Mirai a higher degree of body rigidity, which contributes to greater agility and responsiveness, and a lower centre of gravity, which makes for nimble, rewarding handling.

As well as extending the potential driving range, improvements in the performance of the fuel cell system give the new Mirai linear, smooth response when pulling away and an elegant driving feel, with unity between the driver’s throttle inputs and the car’s acceleration. Handling is light and easy on winding roads, while highway driving produces a sense of power at all speeds.