RENEWABLE electricity has been touted as the fuel choice of the future for a while.
Although battery electric vehicles (BEVS) currently are expensive to buy, the reduced running costs and zero tailpipe emissions offered by electric powertrains make them an ideal choice as a sustainable replacement for ICE power.
But are BEVs the only solution to the complex issue of decarbonization and sustainability? Electric powertrains certainly do have their drawbacks, resulting in several other fuel types being explored as viable alternatives to petrol and diesel power. These include liquid nitrogen and synthetic eFuels, but few are as promising as hydrogen specifically hydrogen fuel-cell tech.
Japanese brand Toyota is perhaps one of the biggest supporters of what it dubs a 'multi-path strategy' - one that embraces the likes of hybrid and hydrogen-powered cars, alongside the pure-electric route that most of the industry is focusing on at the moment.
You might wonder then whether Toyota is spreading its R&D expertise too thin. Unlike most manufacturers that have rapidly electrified their line-ups, Toyota still only sells one EV in the UK, the bZ4X SUV, which is outclassed by many rivals in terms of overall range and practicality.
The car maker also offers the sleek-looking Mirai saloon. Plush and comfortable to the point it almost deserves a Lexus badge on the bonnet, the Mirai uses hydrogen fuel-cell technology.
The model was on sale for a while in the UK, but it's now only available on a 'special order' basis, due to limited demand.
This story is from the September 04, 2024 edition of Auto Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 04, 2024 edition of Auto Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
BEST SPORTS CAR 4X4s
Banish the winter blues with these 4WD stunners guaranteed to put a huge smile on your face and keep you on the move
BEST USED CARS FOR SNOW
If you need a vehicle for snowy conditions but don't have the budget to run to a new one, there are plenty of excellent second-hand choices out there
HOW TO DRIVE IN SNOW
Heavy snow presents unique challenges. You don't have to be a wizard in a blizzard, but it's worth following some simple rules
WHAT IS AQUAPLANING AND HOW TO AVOID IT
Aquaplaning is a frightening experience, but following our top tips can cut the risk of it happening to you
HOW TO DRIVE ON ICE
When the roads get really slippery, it's vital to know how to react. Here's what you need to know
HOW TO DRIVE IN FLOOD WATER
Heavy rain anb beep floob water can be hazarbous if motorists bon't take the right precautions. Here's how to brive safely in sobben conbitions
SMART #1
Life with the first car from the reborn Smart brand has been a bit hit and miss so far
DIFFERENT STROKES
The new Toyota Prius is a PHEV, while Mazda's MX-30 R-EV is a rotary-engined range extender. Which takes charge here?
Porsche Panamer a GTS
FIRST DRIVE The latest luxury flagship might fly in the face of Porsche's electrified future, but it's a terrific performer
Omoda E5
FIRST DRIVE It's no class leader, but the all-electric E5 proves beyond doubt that Omoda is going to be a brand to watch