Toyota has launched the next-generation Sora, its commuter-focused fuel-cell electric vehicle. The bus has a fuel-cell system that generates electricity through hydrogen and has greater range than its previous version. Improvements were focused on the FC system’s durability, safety functions, and overall usability.
The new Sora was co-developed with Isuzu and uses the company’s BEV full-flat route bus platform, and aside from the decal, it looks identical to the Erga EV. It measures 10,545mm long, 2,485mm wide, and 3,440mm tall, and can carry up to 70 people. 50 of those occupants will be standing, though, as the bus only has 19 seats excluding the driver’s. However, Toyota also mentions it will have four variants with different seat layouts, so we expect at least one of those to come with more seats.
Toyota says the hydrogen tank capacity was reduced by 20%, while range increased from 100km to 300km. When it’s time to refuel, the Sora can be topped up in just 10 minutes. The improved FC system is now more compact and sits on the roof—more accessible for maintenance. Toyota adds that by connecting an external power supply unit, the bus can be used as an emergency power source during disasters, with similar V2L functionality as modern EVs.
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Other features include a ‘one-touch wheelchair securement system’—which helps wheelchair users get on and off the bus more easily—an emergency driver stop system, a driver status monitor, and a front blind-spot monitor.
Toyota says it has been working with government agencies and businesses to continue promoting the widespread adoption of hydrogen mobility. Would you like to see this hydrogen-powered bus on our roads soon?
