Hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai arrives in November

Weird design, few hydrogen filling stations, high price: What is the bottom line that hardly anyone in Germany has been using hydrogen so far -Toyota can only be speculated about. The fact is: The M irai was never a big hit in this country, a look at the database of the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) reveals that. Only 138 registered copies were on the road in Germany as of January 1, 2019 (the KBA will not announce more current figures until later). However, only nine of them were privately registered.

Foretaste in Tokyo

But now Toyota know and are planning a new edition of the hydrogen sedan introduced in 2014 for 2020. The second generation celebrated its world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show 2019. It will be launched in November 2020.

Manufacturer /ams

There are a few similarities between the Mirai Concept (above) and the Kia Stinger (below).

Already at the auto show it became clear that the design has suddenly become really chic. Instead of a jagged face, there are now flowing shapes, a wide grill, and 20-inch wheels. But does it seem a bit like you've seen this Mirai concept somewhere? May be, because a look at the profile view reveals a striking similarity to the Kia Stinger. The roof line and overhangs create an impression of the same proportions in the overall picture. The Mirai, however, pullsthe rear side window further towards the rear and the front section lower towards the asphalt.

The Mirai is taut towards the five meters

In addition, the Mirai now has upper-class format. It measures 4.98 meters in length, 1.89 meters in width and 1.47 meters in height; the wheelbase is 2.92 meters. The elegance and size extend into the interior of the five-seater; the current Mirai only offers four seats.

Inside, there are seams and accents in copper, a 12.3-inch display in the center that is inclined towards the driver and fully digital instruments. Only the number of buttons and buttons seems a bit oversized. But the operator ergonomics can only be assessed when you can actually sit in it.

Toyota

The interior makes one high quality impression. The number of buttons and buttons seems a bit oversized.

Mirai number two is based on the new, scalable TNGA platform (Toyota New Global Architecture ), which, according to the manufacturer, allows great technical advances compared to its predecessor. The rear-wheel drive fuel cell sedan should react more directly and more evenly to the driver's commands, which should improve both comfort and driving pleasure. The latter is also due to the optimized body rigidity and the lower center of gravity of the vehicle.

Three instead of two hydrogen tanks

Toyota is increasing the hydrogen tanks on the new Mirai from two to three (one long and two short), which increases the capacity from the current five to six kilograms. Because the manufacturer wants to have improved the fuel cell system at the same time, the range is to increase by 30 percent. Based on the 550 kilometers of the current Mirai, the successor would travel a good 700 kilometers with one hydrogen tank.

Around 15,000 euros cheaper than its predecessor

The second generation of the Mirai promises not only a larger and more handsome, but also a nobler hydrogen Toyota than before . With a base price of 63,900 euros, the new Mirai is also significantly cheaperthan its predecessor, which was available from 78,600 euros. The Toyota Mirai is now also eligible for funding through the environmental bonus and the innovation bonus. In addition to the basic version, the Mirai is also available in the Executive equipment line from 66,900 euros and in the top Advanced equipment from 73,900 euros.