Toyota and Isuzu launch new Sora hydrogen fuel cell bus

Toyota and Isuzu have announced the release of the new Sora, a hydrogen fuel cell (FC) bus designed for next-generation public transportation. Developed through a collaboration where Isuzu provides the BEV platform and Toyota provides the fuel cell system, the new model achieves a driving range of over 300 km, an increase of approximately 100 km over the previous version.

The vehicle features a compact roof-mounted FC system and hydrogen tanks to improve maintenance efficiency. Refueling takes approximately 10 minutes, with potential for even faster charging via future high-speed standards. Safety enhancements include an Emergency Driver Stop System (EDSS) that can automatically decelerate and park the vehicle if a driver's health emergency is detected, as well as front blind-spot monitors to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Designed for accessibility, the bus features a completely flat floor and an optional one-touch wheelchair securing device. Isuzu is also launching its own fuel cell bus, the Erga FCV, produced by the J-Bus joint venture, which shares a similar technical foundation with the Toyota Sora.