Is the Toyota Mirai fully electric?
The Toyota Mirai is a groundbreaking vehicle that has sparked curiosity among car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike. While it is often grouped with electric vehicles (EVs), the Mirai operates on a unique technology that sets it apart from traditional battery-powered electric cars. In this article, we’ll explore whether the Toyota Mirai is fully electric and what makes it stand out in the world of alternative fuel vehicles.
Understanding the Toyota Mirai's Powertrain
The Toyota Mirai is not a fully electric vehicle in the conventional sense. Instead, it is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). While it shares some similarities with battery electric vehicles (BEVs), such as the absence of a traditional internal combustion engine, its power source and energy storage system are fundamentally different.
How Does a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Work?
Unlike BEVs, which rely on rechargeable batteries to store electricity, the Toyota Mirai generates its own electricity using hydrogen fuel cells. Here’s how the process works:
- Hydrogen gas is stored in high-pressure tanks within the vehicle.
- The hydrogen is fed into a fuel cell stack, where it combines with oxygen from the air.
- This chemical reaction produces electricity, which powers the electric motor that drives the car.
- The only byproduct of this process is water vapor, making the Mirai an environmentally friendly option.
Key Differences Between the Toyota Mirai and Fully Electric Vehicles
While both FCEVs like the Mirai and BEVs are zero-emission vehicles, there are some key differences to consider:
- Energy Source: BEVs rely on electricity stored in batteries, while FCEVs generate electricity on demand using hydrogen fuel cells.
- Refueling vs. Charging: The Mirai can be refueled with hydrogen in just a few minutes, whereas BEVs typically require longer charging times.
- Infrastructure: Hydrogen refueling stations are less common than electric charging stations, which can limit the practicality of FCEVs in certain areas.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Mirai is not a fully electric vehicle in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle that combines the benefits of zero emissions with the convenience of quick refueling. While it may not fit the standard definition of an EV, the Mirai represents an innovative step forward in the quest for sustainable transportation. Whether it’s the right choice for you will depend on your access to hydrogen refueling infrastructure and your personal preferences for alternative fuel technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many miles can a Toyota Mirai go on a full tank?
When fully fueled with hydrogen, the 2024 Mirai XLE has an impressive estimated all-electric driving range of up to 402-miles * and the 2024 Mirai Limited has an estimated all-electric driving range of up to 357-miles.
What is the downside of hydrogen cars?
Quite expensive: Hydrogen-powered cars are not cheap, and the refueling charge differs considerably among different countries. Production challenges: When it comes to the production of hydrogen, it can be energy-intensive and may rely on various non-renewable sources.
How long does it take to charge the Toyota Mirai?
Hydrogen-powered vehicles don't need charging like an electric vehicle. You refuel them with hydrogen gas, pumped in the same safe and convenient way you would a conventional petrol or diesel car. Filling up takes the same amount of time too, between 3-5 minutes for a full tank.
Is hydrogen cheaper than gasoline?
Fueling Costs
While the current price of hydrogen is higher than gasoline, fuel cells are approximately 2.5 times more efficient than gasoline engines. An added bonus is that most fuel cell car manufacturers include three years' worth of free fuel with a vehicle.
How much does it cost to refill a Toyota Mirai?
The Toyota Mirai Costs $200 To Refill
True Zero is currently the lead hydrogen supplier in California, and currently charges $36 for a kilogram. The Mirai accommodates 5.6 kg of hydrogen in its 142.2-liter tank, meaning you'll have to spend $201.60 to refuel.
Where do you fill hydrogen cars?
Most hydrogen fueling stations are located at existing gas stations, using dispensers that look very similar, but have a different nozzle and hose. California has more than 60 hydrogen stations, with additional stations in development.
What are the disadvantages of the Toyota Mirai?
Disappointing Cargo Capacity. The Toyota Mirai needs more cargo and personal item storage, which could be a significant downside for those who need ample space. The trunk offers a limited capacity of just 9.6 cubic feet, which is relatively small for a car of its size.
Can Toyota Mirai run on gas?
The Mirai is a hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle that must be fueled at hydrogen stations conforming to the latest Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) hydrogen fueling interface protocol standards or laws that may supersede such SAE standards.
What is the biggest problem with hydrogen cars?
Hydrogen-powered cars have a chance in the European, American and Asian markets – but much depends on the volume of production and the approach to their use. The biggest problem seems to be the energy cost of producing this raw material. Another important issue is transport.
How far will a Toyota Mirai go on a full tank?
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Toyota claims that the XLE model is good for 402 miles per fill-up of hydrogen. Going with the Limited model drops that estimate to 357 miles.
