What is the fuel tank capacity of Toyota Mirai?
Approximately 5.6 kilograms of hydrogen, stored in three high‑pressure tanks at about 70 MPa (700 bar).
In practice, this capacity translates to a driving range typically cited between 312 miles on earlier Mirai models and up to about 402 miles for newer generations, depending on conditions such as temperature and driving style. The tanks are located under the floor and the fuel-cell stack converts hydrogen to electricity as needed.
Tank capacity and storage configuration
Key storage figures and design details are summarized below to help understand how the Mirai stores hydrogen.
- Total hydrogen storage: about 5.6 kg (roughly 12.3 pounds).
- Tank configuration: three high-pressure hydrogen tanks integrated under the vehicle floor.
- Operating pressure: approximately 70 MPa (700 bar).
- Estimated driving range: commonly cited as about 312 miles for earlier generations; the latest generation can reach around 402 miles under favorable conditions.
It's important to note that real-world range depends on driving style, climate, vehicle load, and hydrogen fueling efficiency. The usable storage is close to the stated capacity, with minor variations due to tank geometry and cooling.
Model-year variations
Since its second-generation introduction, the Mirai has maintained the core three-tank, high-pressure design. While total capacity remains around 5.6 kg, efficiency improvements and different driving conditions can influence EPA range estimates, with newer models sometimes showing higher potential ranges in optimal conditions. Regional fueling infrastructure and ambient temperatures can also affect real-world performance.
Summary
The Toyota Mirai stores roughly 5.6 kg of hydrogen in three high-pressure tanks, pressurized to about 70 MPa (700 bar). This storage supports EPA ranges typically around 300 miles for earlier models and up to approximately 400 miles for newer iterations, depending on conditions.
Is the Toyota Mirai being discontinued?
No, the Toyota Mirai has not been discontinued, but Toyota is streamlining its lineup by discontinuing the top-trim Limited for 2025, leaving the XLE as the only model available. The XLE trim will now include some of the features previously exclusive to the Limited model, making it a simpler and more focused offering for the year.
Key changes for 2025
- Limited trim discontinued: Toyota has eliminated the Limited trim level, focusing its efforts on the XLE.
- XLE now includes more features: The XLE will incorporate some premium features from the former Limited trim, such as a 360-degree camera, heated exterior mirrors, and front and rear parking sensors.
- Simplified lineup: The model year offers a single trim level, which may be a strategic move to reduce production costs and streamline the slow-selling hydrogen fuel-cell car.
- Higher starting price: The starting price for the 2025 Mirai XLE is higher than the 2024 model's base price, partly due to the added standard equipment.
How far can a Toyota Mirai go on a full tank?
The Toyota Mirai has an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 402 miles on a full tank, though this can vary based on driving habits, weather, and other factors. Real-world driving may result in a shorter range, with some estimates suggesting around 300 miles or less depending on usage, particularly with air conditioning.
Factors affecting range
- Driving conditions: Highway speeds and aggressive driving can decrease range.
- Weather: Using the climate control system, like air conditioning or heating, will reduce the range.
- Vehicle and road conditions: Factors such as vehicle load and road conditions can also influence fuel efficiency.
- Driving style: Driving in eco mode and maximizing regenerative braking can help achieve a longer range.
Additional information
- The 402-mile range is an EPA-estimated figure for the XLE trim, which has been standard for several model years.
- While some drivers have reported achieving lower numbers, the 402-mile estimate represents the most efficient range under ideal conditions.
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.
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.
