Toyota Australia President and CEO Matthew Callachor said that he welcomes all initiatives designed to reduce emissions in Australia, following the recent announcement by the Federal Government of the Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy, which includes support for the accelerated deployment of charging and hydrogen refuelling stations in Australia.
The strategy paper was unveiled at Toyota’s Hydrogen Centre in Melbourne, by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Minister Angus Taylor and Assistant Minister Tim Wilson, along with Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson and Victorian MP Dr Katie Allen.
Welcoming the Prime Minister to the site, Mr Callachor said creating sustainable mobility solutions for all Australians is a priority for Toyota. “Toyota globally is committed to achieving net zero emissions across our business, including in Australia, not just for our vehicles but also for the supply of components, manufacturing and transport.”
“We strongly support all initiatives that accelerate the rollout of low and zero-emissions vehicles by improving access to charging and refuelling infrastructure. Already, we have more than 220,000 hybrid electric vehicles on the road, contributing significantly to lowering emissions in Australia,” added Callachor.
“Globally, Toyota has adopted a portfolio approach to electrification, with options including the hydrogen fuel-cell Mirai, a 100% electric vehicle, powered by hydrogen, as well as hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and battery electric vehicles. This choice of powertrain is important, as it recognises the different practical needs and varying locations of Australian customers.”
Toyota’s state-of-the-art Hydrogen Centre is centred on interactive education displays designed to inform Australians about the potential for a low-emission hydrogen society. The visiting group inspected Victoria’s first commercial hydrogen production, storage and refuelling facility located at the Toyota site, which can generate hydrogen using renewable solar power. The Prime Minister also refuelled and drove a Mirai on Toyota’s private test track.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) contributed $3.1 million towards the Hydrogen Centre development, with Toyota Australia investing the remaining $4.3 million.