During the World Future Energy Summit, the Founding Father of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Car, Dr Katsuhiko Hirose talks to GineersNow TV about the early formation of hybrid technology and fuel cell cars. The untold story of Toyota’s quest for a cleaner and sustainable transportation.
About the Leader
Dr. Prof. Katsuhiko Hirose – Professional Partner, Toyota Motor Corporation and WPI Visiting Professor, International Institute for Carbon Neutral Energy Research, Kyushu University.
With a Msc in applied physics and a PhD in mechanical engineering, Dr. Hirose has been the driving force in many of Toyota’s innovative technologies, including Hybrid system and Fuel cell system. He has been instrumental in the global deployment of hybrid electric vehicles, leading the awareness campaign on hydrogen energy and hydrogen infrastructure, setting the strategic direction of Toyota Motor Corporation in terms of new technological developments and initiating various industry-government programs (including German H2Mobility, UK H2Mobility, H2USA, and the Hydrogen Council).
About the Company
Toyota, the Japanese automotive manufacturer founded in 1937, is the world’s market leader in sales of hybrid electric vehicles.
Al-Futtaim Motors, leader in sustainable mobility since 2008, has been operating the Toyota franchise in the United Arab Emirates for over 6 decades. In addition to the large line-up of vehicles ranging from SUV, compact, sedan, coupe, MPV and LCV options, Al-Futtaim Motors introduced Camry electric hybrid in 2008 to taxi operator fleets, in an effort to actively contribute to a lower carbon footprint in the UAE.
In 2016, Prius, the world’s most popular hybrid electric car for over 20 years was launched in the country, in order to actively support UAE Vision 2021’s environmental targets.
2017 saw the introduction of the zero-emission hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell Electric Toyota Mirai, in a pilot aiming at studying the possibilities of establishing a hydrogen-based, carbon-free society. As part of the program the Mirai is being showcased to a number of key government stakeholders and is taking part in a number of events to give the public an understanding of what the future of zero-emissions motoring could look like.
While the Yaris Hatchback monopolises the compact range, the Sedan series offers a wide choice of vehicles such as Yaris Sedan, Corolla, Camry, Avalon and Aurion. The SUV range comprises the legendary Land Cruiser, Land Cruiser Prado, FJ Cruiser, Fortuner and RAV4. As for the MPV line-up, it features Innova, Previa and the 7-seat Avanza. The LCV range covers the Land Cruiser Pick-up, Hilux, Hiace and Coaster. Dedicated to the purists’ sports car is the front engine rear wheel drive Toyota 86. www.toyota.ae; Social Media Handles: ToyotaUAE
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