Toyota supports the next chapter of Energy Observer’s global voyage
- Toyota backs Energy Observer’s 2025–2033 voyage, using its Fuel Cell System to generate zero-emission power for marine transport
- The initiative reflects Toyota’s multi-pathway approach for carbon neutrality through diverse energy sources and complementary technologies
Brussels, 10 June, 2025 – Toyota is proud to support the next chapter of the Energy Observer - the laboratory vessel powered solely by a mix of renewable energy sources and capable of producing hydrogen on board. Equipped with the Toyota Fuel Cell System, this pioneering laboratory vessel is set to embark on a new global expedition from 2025 to 2033.
The nine-year journey, titled ‘In Search of Carbon Neutrality,’ will further explore and develop a range of technical solutions for sustainable and decarbonised marine transport.
From 2025 to 2026, the first Energy Observer laboratory vessel will continue its missions in Europe. The Toyota Fuel Cell System has been playing a key role in the vessel’s carbon-free energy chain, generating zero-emission* power onboard. This initiative demonstrates innovative approaches to decarbonising both marine propulsion and onboard energy systems.
In 2027, the Energy Observer 3, a new-generation expedition catamaran will take over, marking a new stage in the quest for a maritime energy transition. In preparation for this milestone, Energy Observer and Toyota are joining forces to study and explore the integration of the Toyota Fuel Cell System into the vessel’s innovative energy architecture, which combines multiple complementary renewable energy sources, including hydrogen.
Toyota believes that achieving carbon neutrality requires a multi-pathway approach - one that leverages diverse energy sources and complementary technologies.
We are proud to support the next chapter of the Energy Observer odyssey. Just as Toyota Fuel Cell System powered the first Energy Observer laboratory vessel, it will once again generate renewable-based electricity aboard the new Energy Observer 3 vessel. Bold exploration and collaboration are essential, and our continued partnership with Energy Observer reflects Toyota’s deep commitment to sustainable innovation and a carbon-neutral future across all forms of mobility.
During its first odyssey, the Energy Observer sailed over 68,000 nautical miles - more than three times around the globe, proving the viability of a renewable energy mix: hydrogen, solar and wind.
Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA (TME) oversees the wholesale sales and marketing of Toyota, GR (Gazoo Racing) and Lexus vehicles and parts and accessories, as well as Toyota’s European manufacturing and engineering operations. Toyota directly employs over 25,000 people and has invested over EUR 11 billion in Europe since 1990. Its eight European manufacturing plants are located in Portugal, the UK, France, Poland, Czech Republic and Turkey. Today, there are approximately 14.7 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles on European roads, whose drivers are supported by a network of 28 National Marketing and Sales Companies and around 2,800 retail sales outlets in 53 countries (EU, UK, EFTA countries , Israel, Turkey and other Eastern European countries). In 2024, TME sold 1,217,132 vehicles in Europe for a 7.1% market share. For more information, visit www.toyota-europe.com.
Toyota believes that when people are free to move, anything is possible. In the pursuit of "Mobility for All", Toyota aims to create safer, more connected, inclusive and sustainable mobility to achieve its mission of producing “Happiness for All”. In Europe, TME launched the KINTO mobility brand which offers a range of mobility services in 20 countries, and is growing its business-to-business sales of zero-emission fuel cell products and engineering support. Contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Toyota is working to achieve carbon neutrality in its entire business across Europe. A historic leader in CO2 reduction in Europe, TME aims to achieve 100% CO2 reduction in all new vehicles in Western Europe by 2035 and will continue to offer a full range of electrified powertrains to customers across the region with its hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery and fuel cell electric vehicles.
Toyota views hydrogen as one of the key building blocks towards carbon neutrality, using fuel cell technology for mobility and in the wider economy beyond transport. Toyota’s advanced fuel cell technology is already integrated into passenger cars, buses, trucks, trains, marine and stationary applications for a range of business customers and other OEMs. To meet growing demand in the region, TME started producing its 2nd generation compact fuel cell modules in Europe in January 2022. In terms of infrastructure, Toyota's long-term vision is to establish 700bar as a standard for fuel cell electric vehicles and products.