Toyota and Isuzu unveil next-generation Sora hydrogen bus

Toyota and Isuzu have unveiled a next-generation Sora hydrogen fuel cell bus with a cruising range exceeding 300 km. This marks an improvement of about 100 km over the first-generation model launched in 2018. The new bus combines Isuzu’s battery-electric full-flat route bus platform with Toyota’s latest fuel cell system, which is now compactly mounted on the vehicle’s roof.

The extended range is achieved despite a roughly 20% reduction in total hydrogen tank capacity. This efficiency gain comes from Toyota’s adoption of a new, more compact fuel cell stack designed for commercial vehicles, offering increased output and durability. A new large-capacity hydrogen tank for commercial vehicles was also developed. Toyota said "mounting the FC system on the roof makes maintenance easier for operators."

Urban variant specifications highlight capacity and accessibility

The urban version of the Sora bus is designed for high capacity and inclusive access. It measures 10.545 meters in length, 2.485 meters in width, and 3.44 meters in height.

The passenger compartment uses a full-flat floor with no steps. It has room for 70 people. An optional one-touch wheelchair securement system is available to assist wheelchair users.

Four bus variants are offered in total: two for urban use and two for suburban use, each with different seat layouts.

Safety and emergency systems enhance operational reliability

Advanced safety systems are a key feature of the new Sora. An Emergency Driver Stop System is connected to a Driver Status Monitor. If a problem with the driver is detected, the bus decelerates to a stop and the parking brake engages automatically.

A front blind spot monitor detects pedestrians and bicycles ahead and alerts the driver. Furthermore, by connecting an external power supply unit, the vehicle can be used as an emergency power source during disasters.

Refueling convenience and real-world fuel cell application

Hydrogen refueling for the new Sora takes about 10 minutes. When compatible hydrogen stations are deployed, this refueling time can be reduced by about half. The bus is powered by a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell stack rated at 113 kW, driving an AC induction motor producing up to 220 kW and 970 Nm of torque.

Toyota’s fuel cell technology is already in widespread use. The company introduced its first fuel cell electric vehicle, the Mirai passenger car, in 2014 and has sold it in more than 30 countries. Since 2019, Toyota has supplied more than 3,500 fuel cell systems to over 100 customers worldwide. These systems have been used in applications such as buses, rail, and stationary generators.

Toyota and Isuzu plan to expand deployment of the Sora bus as hydrogen infrastructure grows, supporting broader decarbonization in public transport.