Toyota Powers Up California’s Hydrogen Infrastructure with FirstElement Fuel Investment

Toyota Motor North America has invested in FirstElement Fuel (FEF) to expand California's hydrogen infrastructure to 92 stations across 38 locations. FEF, founded in 2013, has already deployed stations from Irvine to Livermore, utilizing grants from the California Energy Commission, CARB, and investors such as Toyota, Honda, Mitsui, MUFG, JBIC, and Air Liquide.

Hydrogen fuel cells offer rapid refueling (5–10 minutes), similar uptime to diesel, and zero emissions (producing only water vapor). They are ideal for heavy-duty fleets, especially along freight corridors like I-710. Partners like Air Liquide, Iwatani, Mitsui, and Honda are developing hydrogen technologies and stations. Nikola Corporation has a 10-year deal to set up HYLA-branded sites, fostering a network effect.

California leads hydrogen adoption with zero-emission mandates and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. State grants and supportive regulations promote fuel cell electric trucks. Fleets are testing routes from San Diego to Livermore using FEF's pumps and Toyota's advanced Gen 3 system.

For sustainability, hydrogen must be produced using clean energy, transitioning from natural gas to green hydrogen via solar or wind-powered electrolysis. This reduces lifecycle emissions and serves as long-duration grid storage.

Toyota's investment in FEF in December 2025 demonstrates confidence in California's hydrogen grid and fuel cell technology, marking a significant step towards a sustainable future.