GEORGETOWN, Ky., Aug. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- After
thousands of miles of real-world testing in the harsh environment
of commercial trucking, Toyota is preparing to further expand its
portfolio approach to products by taking its groundbreaking
hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric technology from prototypes to
production in its efforts toward carbon neutrality.
Starting in 2023, a dedicated line at Toyota Motor Manufacturing
Kentucky (TMMK) will begin assembling integrated dual fuel cell
(FC) modules destined for use in hydrogen-powered, heavy-duty
commercial trucks. The FC modules bring Toyota's electrification
strategy further into focus as it will allow truck manufacturers to
incorporate emissions-free fuel cell electric technology into
existing platforms with the technical support of Toyota under the
hood.
"We're bringing our proven electric technology to a whole new
class of production vehicles," said Tetsuo
Ogawa, president and chief executive officer, Toyota Motor
North America. "Heavy-duty truck manufacturers will be able to buy
a fully integrated and validated fuel cell electric drive system,
allowing them to offer their customers an emissions-free option in
the Class 8 heavy-duty segment."
The dual fuel cell modules, which are a key component of an
overall FC kit, weigh approximately 1,400 pounds and can deliver up
to 160kW of continuous power. The FC kit also includes a high
voltage battery, electric motors, transmission and hydrogen storage
assembly from top-tier suppliers. Toyota will also offer its
powertrain integration expertise that will help truck manufacturers
adapt these emissions-free drivetrain systems to a wide variety of
applications in the heavy-duty trucking sector.
"This second-generation fuel cell system is necessary for a
carbon neutral future," says David
Rosier, Toyota Kentucky powertrain head. "It delivers over
300 miles of range at a full load weight of 80,000 lbs., all while
demonstrating exceptional drivability, quiet operation and zero
harmful emissions."
Toyota will display this technology at the 2021 Advanced Clean
Transportation (ACT) Expo in Long Beach,
California on Aug. 31-Sept. 1.
A prototype truck powered by Toyota's FC kit will also be on
display at the show.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S.
for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable,
next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus
our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs
more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed
world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30
million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including
our joint venture in Alabama that
begins production in 2021.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based
fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education
hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and
chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub
also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum
through Toyota USA Foundation
partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about
Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.
Media Contacts:
Kim Ogle
256-746-5407
kim.ogle@toyota.com
Ed Hellwig
469-292-1165
edward.hellwig@toyota.com
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SOURCE Toyota Motor North America