Toyota is not giving up on other alternatives.
Toyota is not shy about championing hydrogen-powered cars amid the industry's strong push toward electrification. To showcase on a world stage that hydrogen is formidable, the Japanese automaker invited Rowan Atkinson to drive the Toyota GR Yaris H2 Concept up the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Toyota GR Yaris H2 Concept ran at the 1.16-mile track in West Sussex with the same 1.6-liter G16E-GTS three-cylinder turbo engine found in the regular model. However, the fuel supply and injection system has been modified to accommodate the use of hydrogen. Toyota's goal is to introduce alternatives not only in its lineup but also in motorsports.
The Toyota GR Corolla with a hydrogen combustion engine is already working on this. The hydrogen-powered concept completed its second season in the Super Taikyu Series (S-Tai), a motorsport event focused on carbon-neutral competition.
The Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 also ran along with the GR Yaris H2 Concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Competing in the World Rally Championship, the GR Yaris Rally1 is a gasoline-fed hybrid hatch that won its debut year with Finnish rally driver Kalle Rovanpera behind the wheel.
Atkinson may be famous for his role as Mr. Bean, but he is a well-known car nut. The 68-year-old English actor even owned a McLaren F1, which he sold for an eye-watering eight million pounds.
He also owns a GR Yaris, which should’ve made his Goodwood hill climb run feel like second nature.
“I have a GR Yaris, and I think it’s an extraordinary little… pocket rocket. It really is the most delightful thing,” said Atkinson.
By 2026, Toyota plans to roll out its next-generation fuel cell. It promises to deliver a 50 percent fuel cell stack cost reduction, 20 percent more range, and less maintenance compared to diesel engines. The same year will also see the arrival of the brand’s next-gen batteries capable of offering 621 miles of range.
Keyword: WATCH: Hydrogen-Powered Toyota GR Yaris Climbs Goodwood With Mr. Bean