Hino eyes fuel cell future

Hino and parent company Toyota have partnered to produce a prototype hydrogen fuel cell bus, with the vehicle already on trial in Toyota City in Japan.

The bus uses the Toyota Fuel Cell System recently seen in Toyota's Mirai (also pictured), a hydrogen-powered version of its Corolla passenger vehicle that was officially launched last November.

The bus, which is refuelled at Toyota Ecoful Town – a part of Toyota City renowned for its work in new energy technology – utilises eight high-pressure hydrogen tanks, along with two fuel cell stacks and two electric motors.

Hino says the bus will also be able to supply buildings and infrastructure with electricity in times of emergency.

The bus is being trialled as part of a wider feasibility study being promoted by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

The Hino/Toyota collaboration underlines the truck maker's focus on the development of eco-aware, alternative-fuel-source vehicles, says Daniel Petrovski, Hino Australia Manager – Product Strategy.

"Hino has held a long-term commitment to hybrid technology, and the new fuel cell bus currently on trial shows a whole new range of possibilities," he said.

"Its development is also a reminder of the strength of the Hino brand and it shows what the company can do together with its parent company, the Toyota Motor Corporation."