In terms of how far you can go in one tank, the Toyota Mirai range leaves out other zero-emission cars in the filling stations. But the hydrogen-powered Japanese EV still has a lot of catching up to do as far as efficiency is concerned.
Toyota announced last week the EPA's estimated range and efficiency rating for the Mirai.
"The new Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel electric vehicle will offer an EPA-estimated 67 miles per gallon equivalent (mpge) city/highway/combined when it hits dealerships in California this fall, and an EPA-estimated driving range rating of 312 miles on a single fill of hydrogen."
The Mirai's estimated range puts it ahead of other zero-emission cars including the Tesla Model S P85D's 270-mile range, according to Cheat Sheet. In terms of efficiency though, it still lags behind its rivals. At 67 MPGe, Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell car falls short of the Model S' 89 MPGe.
"In other words, for sheer energy efficiency, Toyota's hydrogen drivetrains still have catching up to do in order to match their battery-powered electric counterparts," The Verge said.
Apart from the Toyota Mirai's range, the EV can simply fill up like gasoline-powered cars. Fuel cells then convert hydrogen to electricity, after which it functions like any other electric vehicle. By contrast, battery-powered cars require time to recharge.
As it stands though, hydrogen refueling structure is still lacking but this is already being addressed.
The Mirai will go on sale later this year with orders starting in California this summer. Apart from an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, Toyota is even throwing in $15,000 worth of hydrogen fuel for free for early adopters.
As Cheat Sheet noted, a lack of refueling stations will be Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell car's biggest challenge just as in the heyday of battery-powered electric cars. For those living near one though, the Toyota Mirai range should be a major selling point.
