Couple of weeks ago, Japanese automaker Toyota announced that the second generation Mirai hydrogen fuel cell car will be unveiled in 2020. Now the automaker has officially revealed the 2021 Mirai concept, the production version of which will likely make its debut towards the end of next year.
Related: Next Generation Toyota Mirai to Debut in 2020
The evolution of Mirai can best be described from being a caterpillar to a butterfly. The next gen Mirai is shaping up to be practically a whole new car altogether. The ‘coupe-inspired’ styling is dramatic and bold, rather than the obnoxious one of the current generation. It’s longer and wider than the outgoing Mirai, but sits lower to the ground.
Thanks to an all new platform, Toyota has been able to increase the wheelbase by 5 inches, which adds up to an improved cabin space. It means more room for up to five passengers inside, but with an improvement in aerodynamics too. Also the new Mirai is a rear-wheel drive car rather than front-wheel drive, as well as being more rigid.
Related: Toyota to Develop Fuel Cell Vehicles with FAW and GAC
The cabin becomes luxurious too, not to mention the new Mirai will be quieter on the road as Toyota promises. Plus there will be a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system as standard, along with an 8-inch digital display for the driver’s instrumentation. A camera-based rear-view mirror will be available, along with parking assistance and Qi wireless charging for phones.
Toyota also promises an increase in range from its hydrogen drivetrain, along with more engaging driving dynamics. The automaker is targeting a 30% increase in range from the current Mirai through a combination of boosted fuel-cell efficiency and a larger hydrogen storage capacity. While the current Mirai has EPA figures of 312 miles (502 km), the new one is expected to be delivering up to 405 miles (652 km).
Related: Toyota Sets Up Electric Car Division
Chief Engineer of the Mirai, Yoshikazu Tanaka says:
“I want customers to say, ‘I chose the Mirai not because it’s an FCEV, but because I really wanted this car, and it just happened to be an FCEV.’”
Hydrogen powered cars have a very little market, and even in the U.S. are available only in selected cities. However looking at the images of new Mirai, we certainly want this car in conventional, electric or hybrid powertrain options.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
