Toyota Motor Corporation has announced it is developing a hydrogen engine which, the Japanese firm says, is aimed “towards the achievement of a carbon-neutral mobility society”.
The engine in question is a modified version of the 1,6-litre turbocharged inline three-cylinder unit powering the GR Yaris. As a reminder, the petrol-powered 1,6-litre (in higher state of tune) produces 200 kW and 370 N.m.
Now fuelled by hydrogen, power is generated through the combustion of hydrogen using fuel supply and injection systems that have been modified from those used in petrol engines. Compared to the combustion of traditional fuel, the combustion of hydrogen occurs at a faster rate, resulting in quicker response from the engine.
Toyota has installed the hydrogen powerplant into a Corolla Sport-based racecar, which the firm will enter into a competition under the ORC ROOKIE Racing banner.