Second-generation Mirai FCEV previewed

Toyota continues to believe that fuel cell electric vehicles can play an important role in the move away from combustion engines. Having launched the original Mirai five years ago, it has now developed a replacement which will appear in concept form at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show.

The most obvious difference between the first- and second-generation Mirai models is the styling. Whereas the old design looked angular and awkward, the new car mixes long and low proportions with simple yet elegant surfacing. A great improvement.

Toyota Mirai Concept (2019) Side

Toyota’s rear-wheel drive New Global Architecture platform underpins the concept. This brings several benefits, including better body rigidity, a lower centre of gravity and space inside for five seats.

Toyota Mirai Concept (2019) Front SideToyota Mirai Concept (2019) Rear Side

The Mirai’s hydrogen tanks can be larger than before, too. Indeed, combined with an enhanced fuel cell system, Toyota reckons that driving range should increase by roughly a third to around 390 miles (630 kilometres). Such a gain is truly useful when the refuelling infrastructure is still generally lacking.

Toyota Mirai Concept (2019) Dashboard

A production version of the Mirai concept is due to arrive some time next year.

Related post:
Toyota’s Mirai enters police service in London

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