Toyota’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ambitions Take a Major Leap with Innovative Capsules

Toyota, the Japanese automotive giant, has found a clever way to bypass the challenge of hydrogen refueling stations that have hindered its global hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle (FCEV) ambitions. The company is now aiming to eliminate the need for such stations altogether.

At Japan's Mobility Show Bizweek, Toyota unveiled the latest version of its hydrogen capsule technology, developed in partnership with its subsidiary Woven Planet Holdings. These capsules, weighing 11 pounds (5 kg) and filled with hydrogen gas, are compact at 16 inches long and 7 inches in diameter (400 mm x 180 mm). They can power a variety of applications, from FCEVs to cooking appliances, with Rinnai showcasing a compatible emergency kitchen solution.

If widely adopted, these capsules could enable Toyota to commercialize its FCEV fleet by allowing users to recharge vehicles at cleaner and more convenient depots. The capsules could even be stored at existing gas stations, similar to how barbecue gas bottles are used. Additionally, the technology offers immediate access to energy during emergencies, generating electricity through fuel cells or powering hydrogen-based cookers.

The new portable cartridges are much lighter than the initial version revealed in 2022, and Toyota, along with Woven Planet, plans to conduct Proof of Concept trials in Japan this year. Despite industry trends favoring battery electric vehicles (BEVs), Toyota—along with BMW, Hyundai, and Honda—remains a strong proponent of hydrogen technology, arguing that it is a more sustainable long-term solution. Hydrogen produces no CO2 emissions when used and can be generated with minimal supply-chain emissions when sourced from renewable energy like wind, solar, or biomass.

Toyota envisions a future where hydrogen cartridges, distributed using a model similar to barbecue gas or battery swap services, will make hydrogen easily accessible to consumers without relying on isolated and hard-to-reach refueling stations.