Unprecedented Journey: The Impact and Significance of the 1000 km Mirai Test Drive in France

In a groundbreaking achievement, a task force comprising members from Toyota Motor Europe (TME), Toyota France (TFR), and Energy Observer, a French company specialising in renewable energy, successfully broke the record for the longest distance travelled by a fuel-cell electric vehicle on a single hydrogen refuel.

The record-breaking drive, which took place in May 2021, saw the Toyota Mirai covering over 1,000 km, surpassing the previous record held by Hyundai. The team, led by Marie Gadd from TFR, included drivers Victorien Erussard, James Olden, and Maxime Le Hir.

Before the challenge, the team received eco-driving training from the engineers to optimise their driving techniques for maximum efficiency. This collaboration between Toyota and Energy Observer was driven by a shared desire to achieve carbon neutrality and generate public attention to hydrogen as a zero-emissions energy source.

Following the project, Gadd reported positive customer reactions, with comments such as "I have a high hope for hydrogen" and "I want to know more about Mirai's performance."

Shortly after the initial record-breaking feat, a team of Japanese automotive journalists reclaimed the record, setting a new benchmark for fuel-cell electric vehicles.

Cedric Borremans from TME expressed that the project with Energy Observer taught them that a large company like Toyota has much to learn from startups. Borremans also stated that the synergy between a big company and a startup enabled them to light up the Eiffel Tower in 2021, an event originally planned for the Olympic & Paralympic Games Paris 2024.

The project's direct participants included Toyota Deutschland, which played a key role in the vehicle's deployment and promotion, and project leaders like Philipp Wermelinger, who actively drove the Mirai in test scenarios.

Looking ahead, Borremans hopes to involve more Toyota employees in future record-breaking attempts and exchange technical information between employees in Japan and France for further project advancement. Borremans is also considering utilizing hydrogen boats, powered by Toyota Fuel Cell, on the River Seine in the leadup to Paris 2024.

Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota, expressed anticipation for the challenge to be taken up in the U.S., China, Australia, and many other regions. Victorien Erussard from Energy Observer hoped to convey the message that effectively using renewable energy, such as hydrogen, can act with greater respect for people and the planet.

The Energy Observer vessel, powered by hydrogen, solar, wind, hydropower, and sails, is a testament to the company's commitment to renewable energy research. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, initiatives like this one are essential in driving the shift towards a carbon-neutral future.