THE $66,000 TOYOTA ECONOMY CAR YOU CAN ONLY BUY IN CALIFORNIA - TWO TAKES

EV Channels Review

The 2021 Toyota Mirai Limited presents a compelling, albeit niche, vision for the future of personal transportation, primarily available to California residents due to its hydrogen fuel cell technology. The vehicle boasts a significantly improved design over its predecessor, adopting a Lexus-like aesthetic and a more premium interior, especially in the Limited trim. Its driving dynamics are described as refined and EV-like, with instant torque and a quiet ride, making it pleasant for city driving. Toyota's generous incentives, including $15,000 in prepaid fuel and tax credits, significantly offset the high purchase price. However, the Mirai's viability is severely hampered by the scarcity and unreliability of hydrogen fueling stations, the energy-intensive and often non-renewable process of hydrogen production, and the high cost of hydrogen fuel itself, which exceeds that of gasoline. While the 400-mile range is impressive, the practical challenge of accessing hydrogen makes it a difficult proposition for early adopters, despite Toyota's efforts to promote the technology.