A special collaboration has created a working hydrogen-powered 1:10-scale replica of the Toyota Mirai.
Working with experts from Bramble Energy and Tamiya, Toyota helped build the UK’s first hydrogen-fuelled radio control (RC) car.
The miniature Mirai was mentioned this week by our friends at the Motoring Podcast. Its first outing took place at the Old New Inn Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water.
Miniaturised hydrogen tech
An off-the-shelf Tamiya TT-02 RC chassis was used as the basis for the scaled-down Mirai. The aim was to create a hydrogen-powered RC car that would demonstrate how simple the conversion process can be.
Bramble Energy specialises in producing small-scale hydrogen fuel cells. It was able to miniaturise its printed circuit board to fit the Tamiya chassis.
A new control system, along with parts for storing and regulating the hydrogen fuel, were also added. Bramble Energy fitted two hydrogen canisters, allowing for quick replacement when running low.
As the RC car expert, Tamiya produced a bespoke 1:10 Toyota Mirai body shell. It was then painted in the same Scarlet Flare red as the real thing.
Small scale, big potential
The complete hydrogen fuel cell system fitted by Bramble Energy provides the RC Mirai with 20 watts of power. This has doubled its running time compared to a regular battery-powered RC car.
Earlier this year, a full-size Toyota Mirai set a new Guinness World Record. It covered an astonishing 845 miles on a single tank of hydrogen.
Although not quite offering the same range, Toyota hopes the RC Mirai will help promote hydrogen fuel cell technology.
David Rogers, Toyota spokesperson on alternative fuels, commented: “Cars are the tip of the iceberg for Toyota in terms of progress towards a hydrogen society. Hydrogen will play a key role in meeting our future energy needs, bringing zero emission driving for both big cities and small villages.”
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