How big is the hydrogen tank on a Toyota Mirai?

The Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, has a hydrogen tank capacity of 5.6 kg. This allows the Mirai to travel up to 402 miles on a single tank of hydrogen, making it one of the longest-range hydrogen-powered cars on the market.

Hydrogen Tank Capacity of the Toyota Mirai

The Toyota Mirai is equipped with two high-pressure hydrogen tanks that can hold a combined total of 5.6 kg of hydrogen. This hydrogen storage capacity is a key factor in the Mirai's impressive driving range, which is rated at up to 402 miles on a single tank.

The two hydrogen tanks are made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic and are located under the rear seats of the Mirai. They are designed to withstand high pressures of up to 10,000 psi (700 bar) to maximize the amount of hydrogen that can be stored on board.

Refueling the Toyota Mirai

Refueling the Mirai's hydrogen tanks takes only a few minutes, similar to the time it takes to refuel a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle. Hydrogen fueling stations are still relatively scarce, but their availability is steadily increasing, particularly in regions like California where the Mirai is most popular.

Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology

• Zero direct emissions: The Mirai only emits water vapor, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars.


• Long driving range: The 5.6 kg hydrogen tank capacity allows the Mirai to travel up to 402 miles on a single tank, reducing the need for frequent refueling.


• Fast refueling: Hydrogen refueling takes only a few minutes, similar to refueling a gasoline-powered vehicle.

The Toyota Mirai's hydrogen tank capacity is a key factor in its performance and environmental benefits, making it an attractive option for drivers seeking a clean, long-range, and convenient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

Why is Mirai so cheap?

The Toyota Mirai is cheap because its low resale value is driven by a severely limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure, making it impractical for most people, and high hydrogen fuel costs. Additional factors include faster-than-average depreciation due to rapidly evolving technology and a niche market, along with government incentives that lower the initial price but may affect long-term investment potential. 
Key factors contributing to low prices

• Limited hydrogen infrastructure: The U.S. has very few hydrogen fueling stations, with most located in California, and these stations frequently have operational issues, leading to shortages and an unreliable supply. 
• High fuel costs: Even where stations are available, the cost of hydrogen is high, making the total cost of ownership expensive and offsetting potential savings, notes this YouTube video. 
• Rapid depreciation: As a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in a niche market, the Mirai has a very high depreciation rate. Early models have lost a significant percentage of their value, often exceeding 80% within five years. 
• Market saturation: Many used Mirais are lease returns, creating an oversupply in the used market that drives prices down further. 
• Government incentives: Incentives, such as free hydrogen fuel for several years, can lower the initial purchase price, but the value of these incentives can decrease over time as fuel prices increase, making the car less appealing for future owners, says Top Speed. 
• Concerns about maintenance and reliability: Potential owners are often deterred by concerns about long-term reliability and high repair costs associated with hydrogen fuel cell technology. 

How much does it cost to fill up a Mirai with hydrogen?

The cost to refuel a Toyota Mirai is approximately $200, based on the current average price of about $36 per kilogram and the Mirai's 5.6 kg tank capacity. However, Toyota includes a $15,000 fuel card, which covers complimentary fuel for up to six years for new purchases and three years for leases. After the complimentary period, out-of-pocket refueling costs can be substantial and are subject to significant price fluctuations.
 
Cost breakdown

• Price per kilogram: Approximately $36/kg
• Tank capacity: 5.6 kg
• Cost per fill-up: Approximately $201.60 ($36 x 5.6 kg)
• Cost per mile: Around $0.50 per mile, based on the ~$200 refill and an estimated 400 miles of range. 

Complimentary fuel

• New purchase: The purchase of a new Mirai includes up to $15,000 or six years (whichever comes first) of complimentary hydrogen fuel. 
• Lease: The lease of a new Mirai includes up to $15,000 or three years (whichever comes first) of complimentary hydrogen fuel. 
• Note: The $15,000 credit is based on an estimated 30,000 miles of driving, even at high price points. 

Cost comparison to other vehicles

• EV: It is significantly cheaper to charge a comparable electric vehicle, with estimates suggesting it costs about 14 times less per mile than refueling a Mirai with hydrogen in California. 
• Gasoline: Even compared to a gasoline car, the cost of hydrogen refueling is much higher. For example, fueling a Toyota Corolla Hybrid costs about one-sixth the price per mile of a Mirai. 

Factors to consider

• The cost of hydrogen fuel can fluctuate significantly, and a shortage of stations and supply issues can impact availability and price. 
• The complimentary fuel card is a major benefit for new buyers, but the cost after the card is used can be a significant factor in the total cost of ownership. 

How much hydrogen fuel does a Toyota Mirai hold?

The Toyota Mirai has a total internal volume of about 122.4122.4122.4 liters, which holds approximately 5.65.65.6 kg of hydrogen, according to Toyota Global Newsroom and Toyota UK Magazine. The hydrogen is stored in two carbon-fiber-reinforced tanks with a combined volume of 122.4122.4122.4 liters, composed of a front tank (606060 liters) and a rear tank (62.462.462.4 liters).
 

• Total internal volume: 122.4122.4122.4 liters 
• Hydrogen storage capacity: Approximately 5.65.65.6 kg (for the newer models), which is a bit more than the 5.05.05.0 kg in the earlier models 
• Tank material: Carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic 
• Storage pressure: 707070 MPa (about 10,00010 comma 00010,000 psi) 

What is the lawsuit against Toyota Mirai?

Toyota faces legal action over lack of hydrogen fuel infrastructure. California Mirai owners filed a class-action lawsuit against Toyota seeking $5.7 billion in damages. Plaintiffs allege Toyota concealed reliability issues and misrepresented hydrogen infrastructure.