Toyota has introduced a new system, called SimpleFuel, to its Motomachi Plant in Toyota City, Japan. This system uses solar power to produce low-carbon hydrogen, which is then used to fuel forklifts within the plant. The SimpleFuel system works by using electricity from solar panels to electrolyze water, producing hydrogen gas. This hydrogen is then compressed and pressurized, and supplied to fuel-cell forklifts (FC forklifts). The system is compact and can produce up to 99 Nm3/day (approximately 8.8 kg/day) of hydrogen, enough to fuel seven or eight FC forklifts.
The introduction of SimpleFuel is part of Toyota’s efforts to reduce CO2 emissions at its plants. The company aims to replace conventional forklifts with fuel cell forklifts, which emit only water and heat as byproducts, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Toyota has been using hydrogen fuel cell forklifts at its Motomachi Plant since 2018, and the introduction of SimpleFuel will help to support the increasing demand for hydrogen fuel.
The use of solar power to produce hydrogen is a significant step towards reducing Toyota’s carbon footprint. By using renewable energy to produce hydrogen, Toyota can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and lower its greenhouse gas emissions. The SimpleFuel system is also compact and can be installed in small spaces, making it suitable for use within the plant.
Toyota’s introduction of SimpleFuel is also part of its efforts to accumulate new technologies and knowledge in the field of hydrogen fuel cells. The company is working to develop and commercialize fuel cell technology, and the use of SimpleFuel is an important step towards achieving this goal. Overall, Toyota’s use of SimpleFuel is a positive step towards reducing its environmental impact and promoting the use of renewable energy and hydrogen fuel cells.