A long-term US Toyota Mirai driver has been behind the wheel of his hydrogen-powered car for three years and loves it, but claims its range and refill costs leave her feeling a bit torn.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric vehicles (FCEV) are said to be just the start for hydrogen power.
Being in its infancy, there are some sticking points.
Even though this driver loves her hydrogen car, there are issues – such as the range and fuel prices.
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Toyota Mirai powered by hydrogen
You’ve heard the promises surrounding hydrogen FCEV, but this interview by The Autopian lays car owner Micheline’s experience completely bare, and it’s fair to say that there is still room for improvement.
A new Toyota Mirai will set you back around $50,000 – sadly, this value depreciates rapidly, with three-to-four-year-old models losing a decent chunk of their value.
That’s not uncommon with many cars – and certainly not specific to the Toyota Mirai – but left this driver a little divided over her choice.
The Mirai uses fuel cells to generate electricity for an electric motor – check out what this Supercar Blondie writer thought when he took it for a spin.
Theoretically, this should mean a rapid refueling time of five minutes for a theoretical range of 400 miles.
Hydrogen production is energy-intensive, costly, and certainly needs improvement across the board – although it’s early days just yet.
Toyota recently announced plans this summer to build a revolutionary hydrogen engine even larger than the one before.
More fuelling points, better infrastructure, and more availability in general should see these problems start to slowly clear up.
Range and refill costs
According to Micheline, refueling costs are high.
In fact, refill costs can exceed $100 per tank – making it comparatively expensive when compared to gasoline or an electric vehicle, despite an initial free-fuel period.
What’s more, with fewer than 100 hydrogen fueling stations in the US, there are practical challenges for owners.
Some hydrogen car drivers have reported having to tow their vehicles to refuel.
Limited range is also a divisive issue.
With 240 miles (386km) per tank being reported instead of the promised 300+, (483+km) and logistical challenges.
The upside?
The Mirai drives smoothly like an EV, and this driver claimed that she ‘loves’ the car.
The article also points out many positives, including ‘decent build quality, a well-engineered ride [and] good safety tech’.
In conclusion, it’s early days for the technology, and we’re all going to have to get on board with alternative fuel methods if we’re going to save the environment.
As the article concludes, we are dealing with a ‘damn fine car let down by — for the most part — infrastructure’.
Let’s hope things can turn around pretty quickly.
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