In news you probably didn’t expect to see under the ‘Bike News’ section, Toyota has filed a patent for a hydrogen fuel cell scooter. The patent reveals a scooter based on an older Suzuki Burgman 400, featuring a system that uses replaceable, pre-filled hydrogen canisters instead of conventional refuelling. This would allow riders to simply swap out empty tanks for full ones at dedicated stations.
- Patent features replaceable hydrogen canister system
- Based on Suzuki Burgman platform
- Uses fuel cell technology, not hydrogen combustion
Toyota hydrogen scooter details
Suzuki previously showcased a hydrogen-powered Burgman at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show
The patent application shows a scooter based on a Burgman fuel cell prototype, with roots tracing back to a concept displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2011. Toyota and Suzuki – along with Kawasaki, Honda, and Yamaha – are also part of the Japan Hydrogen Small Engine Mobility & Energy Association, which focuses on developing hydrogen-powered two-wheelers.
The patent outlines a unique tank placement, where the hydrogen canister sits in a front-mounted cradle and can swing out for easy removal. Another variation shows retractable arms that extend the tank outward, allowing it to be removed from the side of the scooter.
Importantly, the system uses hydrogen fuel cell technology rather than hydrogen combustion, which is generally a more efficient way of generating power from hydrogen.
Several manufacturers have been exploring hydrogen-powered two-wheelers, though none have reached mainstream production yet. In 2024, Bajaj Auto indicated that its subsidiary Chetak Technologies Limited would explore hydrogen-powered vehicles. Meanwhile, Suzuki showcased a hydrogen-powered Burgman concept at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, featuring a 70MPa hydrogen tank and an internal combustion engine adapted to run on hydrogen.
Source: AMCN
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