As part the Government backed Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) funding, Thatcham Research is working with Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) to bring hydrogen fuel cell technology to the Toyota Hilux.
The consortium aims to adopt Toyota Mirai fuel cell components to develop a hydrogen version of the Toyota Hilux pick-up. Prototypes will be produced throughout 2023 at Toyota’s Burnaston site in Derbyshire.
Thatcham’s role within the consortium demonstrates its proven expertise in creating repair training programmes via its Automotive Academy. Insights gathered through the course of the project will form the foundations of future hydrogen vehicle handling and repair training for technical and non-technical automotive sector staff.
Miller Crockart, chief revenue officer, Thatcham Research said: “Whilst pure battery electric vehicles are the poster child for decarbonisation in the automotive sector, continued research and the development of alternative fuel types, such as hydrogen, also hold the potential to play a key part in achieving UK carbon neutrality goals.”
Richard Kenworthy, Managing Director, Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd said: “This is a hugely significant project for Toyota and the consortium. Their experience and knowledge of the repair and safety aspects of the vehicle development will enable the wider automotive sector to upskill and be hydrogen ready. This will then also have a direct impact on the insurance rating of the final vehicle. We are confident that this is a winning combination of companies that can collectively contribute to the hydrogen landscape, supporting new job skills and competencies going forward.”
Keyword: Thatcham and Toyota work on APC-funded hydrogen Hilux project