Toyota is once again proving why it is a pioneer in clean energy by committing to a hydrogen fuel cell powered version of the next-generation Corolla. As part of a multi-pathway approach to decarbonizing transport, Toyota plans to launch this fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) variant by or around 2028, in addition to offering hybrid, internal combustion engine, and fully electric powertrains in the same model.
This bold move signals Toyota's belief that hydrogen is more than a niche green tech... it's "the energy of the future," capable of complementing battery electrification. The Japanese giant has long championed fuel cells, with the Mirai being one of the few commercially available hydrogen cars globally. Toyota continues to refine its fuel cell tech, working on smaller, more efficient cell designs that fit seamlessly into modern vehicle architectures without extensive redesign.
Toyota’s hydrogen division president Mitsumasa Yamagata has acknowledged that while hydrogen propulsion remains a niche today, it will play a key role as combustion engines fade. The company is notably working to boost efficiency by around 20 percent compared to the current Mirai’s system and exploring cost reductions by aligning car and truck fuel cell production lines.
Beyond the public roads, Toyota has proven its faith in hydrogen with the liquid hydrogen-fueled GR Corolla competing in endurance races, showing encouraging improvements year over year in durability, range, and performance under racing conditions. This motorsport success helps pave the way for commercial viability.
Hydrogen fuel cells offer many advantages: zero tailpipe emissions, rapid refueling similar to gasoline, and the ability to store energy without degradation issues that plague batteries. Hydrogen is abundant in the universe, and when produced sustainably, it provides a completely carbon-free source of power.
By integrating a fuel cell option in the iconic Corolla, Toyota aims to bring hydrogen into the mainstream compact vehicle segment, making clean energy more accessible to everyday drivers. This approach promises a versatile, practical solution for a sustainable future as the world transitions away from fossil fuels.