Toyota has confirmed it will launch a new hydrogen fuel cell-powered car in Europe next year.
The car, which will be closely related to the FCV saloon concept revealed in Tokyo last year, will be roughly the same size as the Auris, and will be powered by a high energy density fuel stack, giving a range of more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.
Karl Schlicht, Vice President of Toyota Europe, said: "Fuel cell is a technology that can secure our concept of personal mobility. That's because fuel cells combine the strengths of EVs and hybrids, with those of conventional cars.
"That means zero emissions -- they only emit water vapour -- and full usability; refuelling only takes about three minutes."
European president, Didier Leroy, however, recognises that it could take a long time for fuel cell technology to take off. "To help that happen we will bring a reasonable number of cars to Europe. The volume will be limited, but they will be visible on the streets," he said.
But Schlicht remains hopeful that the technology could be widely adopted. "There is of course a long way to go, as with any game-changing technology, but remember the same was said about hybrid only 10 years ago," he added.
Toyota is also teaming up with BMW to further future fuel cell research and development.
So, would you buy a hydrogen-powered car over a petrol, diesel or hybrid model? Let us know by commenting below.
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