Toyota has taken an all-around beating for its decision to focus on a diverse array of alternative fuels and electrification options instead of going all-in on EVs, but that approach has started to look more prudent as other companies struggle with slower-than-expected growth. The Japanese auto giant has developed hydrogen powertrains and been a staunch supporter of hybrid technologies, and now it is testing a new engine that can remove carbon from the air.
The carbon capture engine first appeared in a GR Corolla race car last year as part of a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain. It was already a zero-emissions configuration, but the added filtration system can actually remove carbon from the air around the car.
“This type of technology to capture carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is advancing rapidly in the infrastructure industry. But as far as we know, Toyota is the first company to test this technology in a vehicle,” Naoaki Ito, Gazoo Racing’s project general manager, said.
Toyota’s carbon capture system uses two filters and a fluid reservoir that traps carbon dioxide. It uses no energy, and the fluid moves into the reservoir using the engine’s heat. The automaker worked with Kawasaki Heavy Industries to develop the filters, which are similar to the technology used in modern exhaust systems.
Though Toyota tested the system in a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, it said the tech would work with any motorized vehicle, including ones with gas engines. Right now, however, the system doesn’t capture as much carbon as a traditional vehicle produces in regular operation, so there’s work to do to make it commercially viable.
[Image: Toyota]
Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.
