In a stunning leap toward sustainable transportation, Toyota Motor Corporation has officially unveiled its hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine—a radical innovation that could rewrite the future of mobility. Nicknamed the “Water Engine,” this next-gen powertrain runs on compressed hydrogen gas, produces zero harmful emissions, and emits only water vapor as a byproduct.
Unlike traditional electric vehicles (EVs) that rely on large lithium-ion batteries, Toyota’s new engine requires no battery packs, sidestepping major concerns over rare earth mining, battery disposal, and long charging times.
“This is not just a new engine—it’s a new way of thinking,” said Toyota CEO Koji Sato at the world premiere in Tokyo. “We wanted to blend the emotional thrill of driving with true environmental responsibility. The result is an engine that runs on hydrogen, roars like a sports car, and cleans the air as it drives.”
The hydrogen-powered engine retains the sound and responsiveness of traditional combustion engines, making it appealing to car enthusiasts while offering a carbon-neutral footprint. It differs from hydrogen fuel cells (used in Toyota’s Mirai), as it burns hydrogen directly in the engine instead of converting it into electricity.
Early test models have demonstrated:
- 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds
- Refueling in under 5 minutes
- Only water vapor emitted from the tailpipe
The Water Engine is being hailed as a masterstroke that could bridge the gap between today’s EV push and a truly sustainable, battery-free future.
Toyota plans to roll out its first hydrogen combustion vehicles in limited markets by 2027, with ongoing partnerships to expand green hydrogen infrastructure worldwide.
