The sharpest minds all across the world are digging up ideas for alternatives to combustion engines. The traditional engines that have been into existence for more than a century now, are looked up as dirty and filthy. Concepts like electric vehicles have gained popularity since the inception of Tesla and his clear-vision CEO, Elon Musk. Yet, there are various automakers that are after other alternatives. And one of them is hydrogen, yes, you read that right. Hydrogen, the lightest element on planet earth and also very inflammable. And Toyota has been successful in storing this element in the fuel tank, propel its vehicle, and have water as a by-product. Say hello to the latest iteration, the 2021 Toyota Mirai, an hydrogen fuel-cell sedan.
The 2021 Toyota Mirai has received an overhaul in design and exterior aesthetics. It still remains a prominent hydrogen fuel-cell sedan and clashes with the likes of Honda Clarity and fairly new Hyundai Nexo.
What are the specifications of the powertrain of the hydrogen based Toyota Mirai?
The hydrogen-powered Mirai utilizes a electric fuel-cell setup, where the hydrogen is stripped off from electrons while it bonds with oxygen to form water. The electron flows, or the electricity powers an electric motor. The electric motor on the 2021 Toyota Mirai produces 182-hp and 221 lb-ft which flows to the rear wheels via single speed transmission. The hydrogen power isn’t neck-snapping quick as the Mirai does a lethargic 0-60 mph in 9.1-seconds. The real-world sprints have recorded a 7.4-seconds time, which is impressive to what Toyota lists. The EPA estimates are not yet out, but in reference to the previous generation, expect 67 MPGe. It’s similar to Honda Clarity’s 68 MPGe and Hyundai Nexo’s 65 MPGe city. The Toyota Mirai can be good for upto 402 miles with tank filled with hydrogen.
How are the interiors of the updated 2021 Toyota Mirai?
As one enters the cabin of the hydrogen-powered Mirai, it’s all futuristic and premium-looking. The cabin looks quite fascinating for the $50,000 price tag, and the hydrogen-power quirkiness. The dash highlight smooth surfaces, and big touchscreen. There are copper elements that adds unique character to the Mirai’s interiors. Investing for the expensive Limited trim will avail you with a moonroof, heated-and-ventilated front and rear seats, three-zone automatic climate control, and more. While the infotainment highlights will include a Wi-Fi hotspot, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and in-dash navigation as standard, as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
How does the 2021 Toyota Mirai resemble with the overhaul?
The 2021 Toyota Mirai rolls out with a fresh design. Many sources resemble the design cues to that of the Lexus, the luxury subdivision of Toyota. The front has an sharp appearance, while side stance gives a sporty attribute to the hydrogen-powered Mirai. The wheel design on the Mirai are just stunning. Coming to the back, the Mirai boasts sleek headlights that flow towards each side from the centered Toyota emblem in the rear.
Does the hydrogen-powered Mirai have a future?
The 2021 Toyota Mirai is an sultry looking sedan, and the brand claims it as “a premium rear-wheel drive sports-luxury FCEV”. The pricing starts from $50,495, which is hefty in comparison to the Honda Clarity, which is priced at $34,395. If you are looking for a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell SUV, then the 2021 Hyundai Nexo can be availed for $60,120.
According to the recent review by Motor Trend, range anxiety is generally a non-issue as charging can be done at home or a nearby charging station. But the hydrogen is expensive, it’s $16.70/kg and Mirai’s tank can hold 5.6 kg. But buying the hydrogen-powered Mirai comes with a $15,000 or 3 years’ worth of free hydrogen gift.
CarTonic Verdict
The hydrogen fuel cell vehicles isn’t a new vehicle, even the Mirai has been into existence since 2014. But for now, the hydrogen stations are quite rare, and even hydrogen is quite expensive in comparison to conventional engines or even electric cars. But hydrogen prices are expected to drop to $6-7/kg by 2024 or 2025. With time in hand, automakers might come with more efficient technologies and better vehicle lineup. Till that date, electric cars will definitely dominate the market.
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