Toyota is set to introduce portable hydrogen cartridges at Japan Mobility Bizweek in October, marking a significant step in hydrogen technology. These sleek, cylindrical cartridges resemble oversized AA batteries and are designed for portability and ease of use.
Developed by Toyota’s subsidiary, Woven, the cartridges offer a swappable, portable power solution for next-generation fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), home appliances, and even off-grid applications. By eliminating the need for extensive refueling or charging infrastructure, these cartridges provide a versatile energy source.
Initially prototyped in 2022, the cartridges are now lighter and more compact, reflecting Toyota’s expertise in hydrogen storage. Users can swap out empty cartridges for filled ones, minimizing reliance on a hydrogen pipeline infrastructure.
These cartridges could be used not only for FCEVs but also for powering home devices, serving as backup energy during emergencies, or powering hydrogen stoves, as demonstrated by Toyota’s collaboration with Rinnai Corporation.
Toyota envisions an ecosystem where hydrogen cartridges can be delivered, reused, and powered by renewable sources like wind and solar, contributing to a sustainable, low-emission energy future.
Beyond the cartridges, Toyota is showcasing other sustainability initiatives at the event, including the Liquid Hydrogen-Powered GR Corolla, used in motorsports, and the Sweep Energy Storage System, which repurposes old EV batteries to stabilize renewable energy supplies. These projects reflect Toyota’s broader vision of achieving net-zero emissions and building a clean energy ecosystem.
With hydrogen technology gaining traction among automakers like Hyundai, BMW, and Honda, Toyota’s portable hydrogen cartridges could be a game-changer, offering a practical solution to power everything from vehicles to household devices while advancing clean energy use.
