Although many view hydrogen investment as a risky financial move with no future, some car manufacturers argue that it could serve as an alternative to electric vehicles (EVs) in a carbon-neutral world. BMW strongly supports the idea of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles coexisting with traditional EVs. Toyota, BMW's partner in hydrogen technology, shares this view but adds a unique angle—using hydrogen to fuel an internal combustion engine.
Earlier prototypes of Toyota's GR Yaris and GR Corolla that run on hydrogen have been put to the test in various races. Toyota has also teamed up with other Japanese companies, including Honda, Suzuki, and Kawasaki, to explore hydrogen-powered combustion engines for "small mobility." A prototype of their collaborative off-road vehicle will be showcased at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show next week.
The off-road vehicle, named "HySE-X1," will participate in the tough 2024 Dakar Rally. It features a 1.0-liter supercharged inline-four engine. The 16-valve, liquid-cooled engine generates an undisclosed amount of power and is built into a vehicle weighing roughly 1,500 kilograms. According to Honda and Toyota, the HySE-X1 measures 3,530 mm in length, 2,070 mm in width, and 1,700 mm in height.
The vehicle gets its "HySE" name from Hydrogen Small Mobility & Engine technology. Its chassis is designed by Belgium's Overdrive Racing and has undergone modifications to fit a hydrogen fuel tank and fuel supply system.
The HySE-X1 is scheduled to participate in the "Mission 1000" Challenge in Saudi Arabia, from January 5 to 19, 2024. This event aims to promote and evaluate energy-efficient power sources, whether they are hydrogen, electric, or biofuel. Initially, it's a testing ground for cars, bikes, and trucks rather than a competitive race. However, the event organizers plan to evolve "Mission 1000" into a full-fledged race in the future.
Sources: Toyota, Honda