Racing Forward with Unity: Toyota's Third Competition of Hydrogen-Fueled Engines

In a significant development, the third appearance of a hydrogen-powered vehicle in the Super Taikyu Series at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Mie, saw Toyota's hydrogen-powered Corolla Sport complete the race on September 18-19. This event, spearheaded by President Akio Toyoda, is aimed at demonstrating more options in the era of carbon neutrality and focusing on "transporting" and "making" hydrogen.

The hydrogen for this race was sourced from Australia and transported to Japan. CJPT, a partnership between Isuzu, Hino, and Toyota, handled the transportation using light-duty FC trucks. Meanwhile, Toyota Transportation employed biofuel-powered trucks to transport hydrogen produced at the Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field.

However, bringing hydrogen into Japan from overseas presents challenges. There are technology and regulatory barriers, and the need to create common interfaces and common technology for hydrogen to circulate effectively. CJPT President Hiroki Nakajima suggested that changing the regulations of either the weight of hydrogen-carrying cylinders or the load allowance could allow hydrogen to be transported more efficiently.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, with Toyota's support, is planning to address these challenges. They are planning to transport hydrogen to Japan aboard their Suiso Frontier, the world's first dedicated hydrogen carrier. The Suiso Frontier can carry up to 1,250 square meters of liquid hydrogen, enough to fuel 15,000 fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

President Yasuhiko Hashimoto of Kawasaki Heavy Industries emphasized the importance of partnerships among companies with a shared vision for carbon neutrality. They have taken Mitsubishi Power, JERA, and Mitsui & Co. as new partners for the "Suiso Frontier" blue hydrogen supply project under the third race series in Japan.

President Hashimoto also noted that while Kawasaki is working to produce hydrogen in vast quantities and supply it at affordable costs to Japan, a hydrogen-based society is only set in motion when the supply side and the "use" side work together. President Nakajima of CJPT echoed this sentiment, suggesting that switching to resin tanks, which can withstand higher pressures and hold greater volumes, could improve efficiency.

Lignite, young, low-grade coal, is one of the most economical ways to produce hydrogen. This was the hydrogen source for the race in Australia. President Toyoda emphasized that carbon neutrality should be driven by shared purpose. He outlined that the race is not just about winning, but about exploring and promoting the possibilities of hydrogen as a clean energy source.

In conclusion, the hydrogen-powered engine race in Japan has brought more partners on board and spurred lively discussion towards realizing a hydrogen-based society. The challenges of transporting hydrogen from overseas are being addressed through collaboration and innovative solutions. As the race continues, we can expect to see more advancements in hydrogen technology and the realization of a sustainable, hydrogen-powered future.