Automobile manufacturers continue to invest in hydrogen technology.
Yesterday saw the debut of the Lexus LX, giving the large luxury SUV a complete – and much-needed- makeover. It wasn’t the only Lexus vehicle that made an appearance at the event. At the end of the press conference Lexus teased a strange concept: the Lexus Off-Highway Recreational vehicle Concept, a bronze-colored dune buggy powered by hydrogen.
This concept uses a hydrogen combustion engine to produce water as its only byproduct. It is definitely environmentally friendly. The ATV’s other details are still unknown, but the video shows it traversing various terrains including deep puddles and muddy embankments. Although Lexus may not be entering the ATV market, it’s an interesting concept with a pleasing, agile and elegant design.
The ATV’s hydrogen-combustion engine is not surprising. Toyota showcased a turbocharged 1.6-liter, three-cylinder hydrogen engine in a Corolla earlier in this year. This was a modified version of the one in the GR Yaris. It was also used in prototype racing. Toyota had to modify the ignition and fuel delivery systems of the engine to allow it to use hydrogen. However, it still works much like a gasoline engine with no noxious exhaust.
Although battery electric vehicles are dominating the market, many automakers still research and develop hydrogen-powered models. BMW showcased the iX5, which is powered by hydrogen at this year’s Munich Motor Show. Hyundai is another automaker that has invested heavily in alternative fuel. It hopes to make the technology more widely known over the next 20-years. Last year, Volvo and Daimler merged to produce hydrogen-powered buses and trucks.
Toyota updated the Mirai in 2021 with bold designs and a new platform. Rumours also suggest that a hydrogen powered Prius will be available in 2025. It will use the three-cylinder engine of the Corolla prototype.