Is Toyota Mirai successful?
The Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), has had a mixed record of success since its introduction in 2014. While the Mirai has made strides in advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology, its commercial success has been limited due to various factors.
Overview of the Toyota Mirai
The Toyota Mirai is a mid-size sedan that runs on hydrogen fuel cells, which convert hydrogen gas into electricity to power the vehicle's electric motor. This technology offers several advantages, including zero direct emissions, a longer driving range compared to battery-electric vehicles, and a relatively quick refueling time. However, the Mirai has faced challenges in terms of cost, infrastructure, and consumer adoption.
Sales and Adoption Challenges
The Mirai has struggled to gain significant market share since its launch. In 2021, Toyota sold only around 2,000 Mirais globally, a relatively low number compared to the sales of other alternative-fuel vehicles. Several factors have contributed to the Mirai's limited success:
- High Upfront Cost: The Mirai's starting price is significantly higher than comparable gasoline-powered or battery-electric vehicles, making it less accessible to mainstream consumers.
- Limited Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure: The lack of a widespread hydrogen fueling network, particularly in many regions, has made it difficult for consumers to adopt the Mirai and other FCEVs.
- Perceived Complexity: Some consumers may be hesitant to adopt a new and unfamiliar technology like hydrogen fuel cells, which can be perceived as more complex than traditional internal combustion engines or battery-electric vehicles.
Despite these challenges, Toyota remains committed to the Mirai and continues to invest in improving the technology and expanding the hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
Advancements and Future Potential
While the Mirai's commercial success has been limited, the vehicle has made significant advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology. The second-generation Mirai, introduced in 2020, features improved range, efficiency, and design compared to the original model. Additionally, Toyota has been working with other automakers and governments to promote the development of a global hydrogen economy, which could help address the infrastructure challenges that have hindered the Mirai's adoption.
Looking ahead, the future of the Toyota Mirai and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will depend on several factors, including the continued investment in and development of hydrogen infrastructure, advancements in fuel cell technology, and the ability of automakers to produce FCEVs at a more affordable price point for mainstream consumers.
Is Toyota giving up on hydrogen?
“Toyota has developed hydrogen fuel cell electric solutions for more than three decades, and we will continue to advance this scalable, zero-emission technology as part of our electrified portfolio,” said Ted Ogawa, President and CEO, Toyota Motor North America.
What is the controversy with Toyota Mirai?
The lawsuit alleges Toyota misled prospective buyers by claiming that "hydrogen fuel is available and that refueling the Mirai is seamless," comparing it to the ease of refueling a gasoline vehicle.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Mirai?
Mirai owners and lessees report frequent struggles finding compatible refueling stations, often requiring long drives. Even reaching a station doesn't guarantee success, as issues with broken equipment or incompatible fuel cards can leave them stranded.
What is the life expectancy of a Toyota Mirai?
approximately 150,000 to 200,000 miles
With that said, this means that the Toyota Mirai is expected to have a lifespan of approximately 150,000 to 200,000 miles. This estimation is based on the durability of the fuel cell stacks and Toyota's reputation for making reliable, long-lasting vehicles.
What is the resale value of Toyota Mirai?
2023 Toyota Mirai trade-in prices range from $7,463 - $16,462. Get a more accurate value for your car with the Edmunds appraisal tool.
What are two dangers of hydrogen cars?
Hydrogen vehicle hazards
Potential hazards are due to fire, explosion of toxicity. The latter can be ignored since neither Page 4 hydrogen nor its fumes in case of fire are toxic. Hydrogen as a source of fire or explosion may come from the fuel storage, from the fuel supply lines or from the fuel cell.
How many Toyota Mirais have been sold?
As of November 2022, global sales totaled 21,475 units; the top-selling markets were the U.S. with 11,368 units, Japan with 7,435 and the rest of the world with 2,622.
Why did the hydrogen car fail?
Hydrogen cars are overly expensive
Hydrogen-powered cars are expensive due to the use of precious metals like titanium and platinum, which increase their price compared to EV vehicles. The storage, extraction, and transportation process required to make hydrogen fuel is more complex and costlier than fossil fuel.
How long do hydrogen engines last?
LONG ANSWER
The automakers also provide warranties for all key fuel cell components, including the fuel cell stack, compressor, hydrogen Page 16 tanks, battery packs, and fueling control units. The fuel cell stacks are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, about 150,000–200,000 miles.
Why did Toyota Mirai fail?
This is largely due to the car's hydrogen fuel cell system and infrastructure compatibility. They allege that Toyota failed to disclose these potential problems adequately, leading to significant inconveniences and additional costs for Mirai owners as these early models are no longer covered by the brand's warranty.
