Isuzu Motors Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation have agreed to collaborate on the development toward the mass production of a next-generation light-duty fuel cell (FC) electric truck. This vehicle is based on Isuzu’s “ELF EV” BEV light-duty truck and combines Toyota’s new fuel cell system both companies will jointly develop the system to ensure its compatibility and aiming to start production in FY2027.
For high-utilization applications, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), which use hydrogen as a high-energy-density fuel, represent an effective option. Compared to BEVs, which face the challenge of long charging times, FCEVs can significantly reduce refueling time. Like BEVs, FCEVs produce little vibration or noise and emit no CO2 while in use.
The new vehicle will be based on the ELF EV, launched in 2023 and designed using I-MACS, Isuzu’s product development platform. It adopts Toyota’s next-generation fuel cell stack, enhancing vehicle durability and extending its service life. Isuzu is working to reduce costs by optimizing the vehicle body structure and reviewing manufacturing processes. Meanwhile, Toyota is undertaking similar efforts through innovations in fuel cell design and manufacturing processes.
