From 2023, a dedicated production line at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown, Kentucky, will begin assembling integrated dual fuel cell modules for use in hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles.
Photo: Toyota
After thousands of miles of real-world testing in commercial trucking, Toyota is rolling out its hydrogen-powered fuel cell electrotechnology from prototypes to production to achieve carbon neutrality.
From 2023, a dedicated production line at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown, Kentucky, will begin assembling integrated dual fuel cell modules for use in hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles.
“Heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers can purchase a fully integrated and validated fuel cell electric propulsion system that enables them to offer their customers an emission-free option in the heavy-duty Class 8 segment,” said Tetsuo Ogawa, President and CEO of Toyota Motor North America, in a press release .
The dual fuel cell modules, which are a key component of an overall fuel cell kit, weigh approximately 1,400 pounds and can deliver up to 160 kW of continuous power. The fuel cell kit includes a high voltage battery, electric motors, gearbox and hydrogen storage assembly from world class suppliers.
Toyota will offer its powertrain integration expertise to help truck manufacturers adapt these zero-emission powertrain systems to a variety of heavy-duty applications, Toyota officials said.
“This second generation fuel cell system is necessary for a climate-neutral future,” says David Rosier, Head of Powertrain at Toyota Kentucky. “It offers a range of over 300 miles with a full load weight of 80,000 pounds while demonstrating exceptional driveability, quiet operation and no harmful emissions.”
The fuel cell modules bring further focus to Toyota’s electrification strategy as they enable truck manufacturers to incorporate zero-emission fuel cell electrotechnology into existing platforms with technical assistance from Toyota under the hood, Toyota officials said.
Earlier this month, Kenworth announced it was working with Toyota and Shell to test hydrogen-powered trucks in Southern California.
