It’s being billed as the hydrogen hillclimb, and Toyota is doing it in style. They’ve brought a completely chromed out hydrogen Mirai to play, and it set several Gurston Down Speed Hill Climb records. It’s yet another sign at how much motorsports is changing and evolving to incorporate alternative fuels and electric motors. The chrome Mirai hill climb became the only production hydrogen vehicle to complete a competition hill climb.
The name Mirai means “the future” in Japanese, and it certainly applies now. Being billed as the next step in engine technology, Toyota is pushing hard for hydrogen stations starting in California. The increased infrastructure hopes to boost their plans to expand the growth of the water based vehicle.
Hydrogen based fuel cell technology is growing into a new division of racing. Whether it’s the Prince of Monaco racing the Mirai in the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix or setting a new land record, hydrogen racing is growing by leaps and bounds.
It’s certainly a positive step forward for the Toyota Mirai. Traversing the 0.6 mile course at Gurston Down, the hydrogen Mirai was piloted by journalist David Finlay. The chrome Mirai hill climb took 44.44 seconds with an average speed of 62.5 miles an hour. Putting the chrome hydrogen car through the paces, Finlay now shares a distinct achievement having driven the first fuel cell vehicle in a competitive hill climb.
The chrome Mirai hill climb may be a historical footnote today, but could be the first in the way motorsports evolves in the future. The Mirai has been hailed as a smartly engineered vehicle and it’s functionality and upscale finish give it an appeal all to it’s own.
The high price tag however puts questions on how viable the new Mirai is. Given Toyota’s commitment however, they seem to be ready for the long haul and serious about hydrogen as an alternative fuel.
What do you think about the chrome Mirai hill climb? Do you think hydrogen is the future or do you believe in electric vehicles? Whatever you think, comment below and let us know!
