Back in 2014, Toyota launched its very first hydrogen car. The Mirai was not the only one, but clearly one of the first series-produced cars powered by hydrogen and electricity. In total, more than 10,000 copies of the emission-free car have been sold worldwide. Not exactly a volume model, in other words.
But the basic idea is basically very smart. The car works in a way like an electric car – but has hydrogen tanks, instead of battery packs. The end result is water – and thus no discharge. Actual cleans new Toyota Mirai air – so that what comes out is cleaner than what comes in. Exactly that is possible with the help of an advanced three-stage air filter system, which removes particles, NOx and other harmful substances.
The second generation of Toyota Mirai is currently being launched in Norway. Already when we look at the design of the new Mirai, it is clear that this will have a different appeal than its predecessor (it looked very special)
– Of course, once you have a car that actually cleans the air, you need to have a graphic that shows exactly how much you contribute to the community.
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Should it finally loosen up for the hydrogen investment for Toyota?
Think this is much smarter than a regular electric car
Believe in big sales increase
– We expect to sell around 100 cars this year. But the plan is to double or preferably triple that number next year, says Espen Olsen, information manager at Toyota Norway.
He says that they are now working with, among others, Everfuel, to expand the infrastructure. This is exactly the big Achilles’ heel of hydrogen cars: There are only a few places in Norway where you can fill your hydrogen tanks.
Now, however, the plan is to speed things up. During 2023, there will be 14-16 new hydrogen stations in southern Norway. They should be tactically located between the big cities.
The hydrogen station narrowed, when Norwegian owners had a big problem
Releases long charging time
But if you actually find a station, you can fill the hydrogen tank in a few minutes. You avoid long charging breaks. In addition, there is good range. Mirai manages 650 kilometers on a full tank.
In Norway, the prices start at 540,000 kroner – while the top model, which is expected to account for the volume, costs 600,000 kroner.
Toyota also has its own leasing campaign – because they expect some to be skeptical of the resale value.
– Then we take the risk, and not the customers, Olsen points out.
The new Mirai has completely different lines – and is significantly easier to rest your eyes on – than its predecessor.
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Our first test of the Toyota Mirai here
Bigger, prettier and faster
Mirai has the platform of the Lexus flagship LS, at the bottom. It is noticeable. We have had a small test ride in the car – and can sign that it offers comfort we have not experienced in a Toyota before.
The feeling of quality is also well above what is expected from “popular” Toyota. Here there is good noise reduction, head up display, soft leather, a good infotainment system, seats with ventilation and heating – and JBL stereo system.
It has also become faster than its predecessor, without you having to be afraid to move your hairline significantly, for that reason. 174 hp is not very much, in a car barely 5 meters long. But at low speeds, the throttle response is surprisingly good.
In other words, the first impression is good – but we will of course return with a proper test of the car later.
Smart car: You hardly believe it until you see it
Annoying for Norwegians
In Norway, the sedan / station wagon is not the most popular body choice. Most of all, we want an SUV. Rear-wheel drive is also not a first prize for everyone. You can also forget the towbar and roof load – and the luggage compartment is a relatively modest 272 liters. It feels a bit more spacious than the numbers suggest, but this is not a place master.
Espen Olsen in Toyota emphasizes that there are more models on the way.
– We would like to have an SUV, but now it’s Mirai that’s the start. Then we will see which other models appear, he says.
Inside, Toyota is stepping up to the premium class. Some details pull down, but here things have happened.
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Another car brand cuts out diesel engine
Money to save
The tank costs about 550 kroner to fill up. Then you have a stated range of 650 kilometers. This makes it possible to discuss how much you save on fuel in practice.
But like electric cars, you get away with a very low annual fee, 40 percent discount on company car taxation and no VAT or one-time fee on purchases.
Although electric cars are dominating now, Toyota has no intention of giving up the hydrogen investment. With new partners, the hope is that a proper network of hydrogen stations will be put in place. Maybe it will then loosen up?
Think this is a good alternative to electric car
Video: Dramatic difference: New car meets old car in crash test:
Was threatened by environmental requirements – now comes a big happy news
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