TOYOTA PUTS FUEL CELLS IN SEMIS - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 379

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline After Hours features Sheldon Brown from Toyota discussing the company's ambitious project to integrate fuel cell technology into heavy-duty Class 8 trucks. The initiative, initially a 'skunkworks' project, aims to address pollution issues at ports like Los Angeles and Long Beach by offering a zero-emission alternative to diesel trucks. Toyota retrofitted a Kenworth glider with components from the Mirai fuel cell vehicle, developing new fuel tanks, motors, and batteries to achieve a target range of around 200 miles. The discussion highlights the scalability of fuel cell technology, contrasting it with battery-electric semi-trucks by emphasizing faster refueling times (20-30 minutes) and a lighter overall weight compared to large battery packs. While acknowledging the technology is still in the proof-of-concept phase, Toyota sees potential for drayage operations and other heavy-duty applications where its strengths align. The conversation also touches upon infrastructure development, the importance of total cost of ownership for fleet operators, and the potential for hydrogen fuel cells to be produced from renewable sources.