By Brett Callwood
While Toyota already had a facility in Gardena, it has transformed it into a hydrogen research and development (R&D) center, as this is a growing market here in California.
According to a report by wardsauto.com, “The automaker has been working on hydrogen-powered mobility for three decades. But now hydrogen power and fuel-cell applications are scaling up faster in California than anywhere else in the U.S. as the state leads a national effort to convert diesel-powered trucks and stationary power to fuel cells.”
50 engineers and other staff will be based at the center.
“Toyota has developed hydrogen fuel cell electric solutions for more than three decades, and we will continue to advance this scalable, zero-emission technology as part of our electrified portfolio,” said Ted Ogawa, President and CEO, Toyota Motor North America, in a company statement. “Renaming this facility as North American Hydrogen Headquarters represents our leadership in fuel cell development creating real-world products to help reduce carbon emissions.”
According to Toyota, plans to add features to the center include a flexible microgrid, sustainable customer education center and more.
“Last year, Toyota Motor Corporation reorganized its hydrogen business in Japan to create what it calls ‘Hydrogen Factory’ with the idea to bring all hydrogen-related work under one location and accelerate customer-oriented product development and production in fuel cell or hydrogen-related products,” the company said. “Then, Toyota Motor Europe announced its own “Hydrogen Factory” with the aim to further grow Toyota’s hydrogen business and stimulate wider roll-out of hydrogen ecosystems and infrastructure across Europe.”
“I’m very pleased that Toyota is building on its longstanding commitment to California by locating its North American hydrogen headquarters here in the Golden State,” said California State Senator, District 29, Josh Newman. “The work done there, along with green hydrogen initiatives throughout the state, is propelling California toward a dynamic, clean-energy economy which will also reduce carbon emissions and foster environmental stewardship while extending California’s leadership in this important space.”
“California has ambitious goals to achieve clean air, carbon neutrality and a vibrant economy. Toyota’s investment to expand their research and development of hydrogen fuel cell technology in our state is an example of the innovation that will accelerate the development and deployment of zero-emissions transportation options, particularly as we decarbonize the goods movement sector,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph.
Visit toyota.com for more info.
