How long does it take to fill up a Toyota Mirai?
The Mirai typically refuels in about 3 to 5 minutes at a modern hydrogen station, with longer times possible in certain conditions.
Hydrogen fueling times are influenced by station equipment, tank capacity, and ambient conditions. The Toyota Mirai stores roughly 5 kilograms of hydrogen in high-pressure tanks that are charged to about 70 MPa (700 bar). Refueling is designed to be quick and comparable to gasoline at standard stations built for passenger vehicles, but actual times vary. Here is a closer look at fueling dynamics and what can affect the duration.
How fueling works in a Mirai
The Mirai uses three high-pressure hydrogen tanks totaling around 5 kg, pressurized up to 700 bar. At a hydrogen dispensing station, a certified nozzle delivers hydrogen to the tanks, while the vehicle's safety systems monitor pressure and temperature. The fill stops automatically once the target pressure or mass is reached, ensuring a safe and full tank with minimal waste.
What affects fueling time
The speed of a fill depends on several practical factors that combine to determine how long you wait at the pump:
- Station flow rate and dispenser capability: High-flow 700-bar dispensers can deliver hydrogen quickly, typically delivering a full fill in about 3–5 minutes.
- Current tank fill level and capacity: The Mirai's storage holds roughly 5 kg; starting from a near-empty tank requires more time than topping up from a partial fill.
- Ambient temperature and hydrogen density: Colder weather reduces gas density, which can affect both the mass delivered in a given time and the perceived fill speed.
- Vehicle safety checks and nozzle connection: Safety interlocks, leak checks, and secure coupling add a few seconds to the process but are essential for safety.
- Station congestion and maintenance: Long lines or outages can extend the total time spent at the station.
In typical scenarios, expect 3–5 minutes on a well-equipped station, with potential increases to about 6–7 minutes under adverse conditions or lower-flow dispensers.
Mirai capacity and fueling standards
The Mirai's three high-pressure tanks store about 5 kilograms of hydrogen, with the system operating at approximately 70 MPa (700 bar). The vast majority of passenger-hydrogen stations worldwide are configured for 700-bar fueling, which enables rapid fills for vehicles like the Mirai when conditions and equipment are optimal.
Real-world experience and guidance for drivers
Owners report that fueling sessions are generally quick and predictable at modern stations, though first-time users should allow a few extra minutes to become familiar with docking procedures and any station-specific steps. Stations often provide indicators or prompts showing fill progress and completion.
Summary
In practice, filling a Toyota Mirai takes about 3–5 minutes at a typical 700-bar hydrogen station. Variations in throughput, tank level, temperature, and station crowds can extend the time to around 6–7 minutes in less favorable conditions.
