What is the Toyota Mirai made of?
The Toyota Mirai is a hydrogen fuel‑cell electric vehicle built from a blend of conventional automotive materials and specialized components. Its structure combines steel and aluminum for the body, carbon‑fiber reinforced polymer tanks for hydrogen storage, a hydrogen fuel‑cell stack, a traction electric motor, and a compact battery to smooth power and support startup and braking procedures.
Beyond the propulsion system, the Mirai borrows from standard automotive manufacturing practices for its chassis, body panels, interior trim, and safety systems. The result is a vehicle designed to be safe, durable, and efficient while relying on hydrogen as its primary energy source and electricity produced onboard from that hydrogen reaction.
Core propulsion system and materials
Hydrogen storage tanks
These components store the fuel that powers the Mirai. They are designed to withstand high pressure and are made from carbon‑fiber reinforced polymer with a metallic inner liner. The tanks are configured for compact placement within the vehicle and include safety valves and protective housings.
- High‑pressure, carbon‑fiber composite hydrogen tanks with a metal liner
- Integrated safety systems and valves to manage hydrogen release and containment
- Protective housings and mounting hardware as part of the undercarriage/rear area
These tanks are a key safety feature and a defining material choice for hydrogen‑fuel vehicles like the Mirai, balancing density, strength, and weight considerations.
Fuel‑cell stack and balance of plant
The fuel‑cell stack is the core energy conversion unit, turning hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. It relies on catalysts and membranes made from advanced materials and is supported by a balance‑of‑plant system (cooling, air supply, hydrogen delivery) built from metals and durable plastics.
- Hydrogen/air flow systems and cooling circuitry
- Polymer electrolyte membrane and platinum‑catalyst components inside the stack
- Metallic and plastic components for manifolds, frames, and electrical connections
These components are engineered to operate reliably under automotive conditions, with materials chosen for chemical compatibility and long‑term durability in a hydrogen environment.
Electric motor, power electronics and energy storage
The Mirai converts the electricity generated by the fuel cell into motion through a traction motor and supporting electronics. A compact energy storage device helps smooth power delivery and supports startup, braking, and power buffering.
- Traction electric motor and drivetrain interfaces
- Power electronics (inverter/controls) packaging and cooling
- Small onboard battery or capacitors for energy buffering and system startup
This subsystem combines metallic housings, copper windings, semiconductors, and high‑temperature plastics to maintain efficiency and reliability.
Chassis, body and interior materials
The vehicle’s frame and body panels blend traditional automotive materials with modern lightweight approaches. The chassis makes use of high‑strength steel and select aluminum components to balance rigidity and weight. Interiors rely on common plastics, fabrics, and trims designed for durability and comfort while accommodating the hydrogen system’s layout.
- Body and frame: high‑strength steel with selective aluminum use
- Underbody shielding, trim panels and protective coatings
- Interior materials: plastics, fabrics and trims chosen for durability and safety
These materials support safety standards, crash performance, and everyday usability while integrating the specialized hydrogen components and electronics.
Summary
The Toyota Mirai is built from a combination of steel and aluminum for the body, carbon‑fiber reinforced polymer hydrogen storage tanks, a hydrogen fuel‑cell stack, an electric traction motor, and a compact energy storage system, all wrapped in conventional automotive interior and exterior materials. This blend enables emission‑free operation powered by hydrogen while maintaining the practicality, safety, and durability expected of a modern passenger car.
