UK government threw in some money to get Toyota to manufacture a Hilux powered by fuel cells. So this will be the second HyHi except the the other is the HiHy (Highlander Hybrid). Looks to be a default AWD based on the internals. It too will also be a hybrid. Initial demonstration prototypes will be built next year, 2023. Makes sense for Europe. They have a somewhat established numerous hydrogen refueling stations in a much smaller area. Avoids the import tax as well since this will be built in the Toyota Burnaston, UK site. Development of prototype hydrogen fuel cell Toyota Hilux edited to put in link
Prototype. So maybe they'll build 20? 50? 75? wonder how many. looking at Toyota lease sales figures for Mirai - since they started building their hydrogen vehicles for sale and/or Lease ..... the Mirai - over 8 years of production is averaging 25 units per week built - or 100/month. it has very little trunk space due to the huge ars hydrogen tanks. So maybe the helix will afford more room for the prototype drivers.
I believe the article infers they intend to start full production builds in the UK as the initial prototypes are designed for ramping up local expertise since all hydrogen vehicles are built in Japan.
In what way will it be a hybrid? "Following successful performance results, the target is to prepare for small series production." If the Mirai is at a semi global level, what does small series entail? This is more about the second part of your statement.
Probably a little bit of Toyota feeling them out to see if they are up to as well and a little bit "does a hydrogen truck sell".
Several years go, Toyota repurposed some Miria, hydrogen fuel cell drivetrains to make a Port of Los Angeles container mover. Bob Wilson
funny that Toyota considers the hydrogen experiments successful with its total number of units around the world. Prius V and Prius C, with their way higher production numbers must have REALLY been a smash hit. oh wait they gave them the ax. This strang new brand of successfulness is a bit hard to follow.
