Noni SopheSouth Africa Motors (TSAM) is proud to announce its partnership with the Sasol Solar Challenge, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility by providing a fleet of eco-friendly vehicles to support the event.
This collaboration highlights Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to carbon neutrality, with a focus on promoting clean and sustainable transportation technologies.
As part of this exciting partnership, Toyota has provided key support vehicles for the challenge, including two Toyota Mirai fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV), as well as a range of other hybrid and conventional vehicles.
Vehicle Line-up for the Challenge:
The Toyota Mirai takes centre stage as a symbol of Toyota’s advanced FCEV technology. Although not yet commercially available in South Africa, the Mirai is designed to be much more than an eco-car. It showcases how FCEV technology can offer an exhilarating driving experience, efficiency, and environmental benefits. With a driving range of approximately 500km, refuelling capabilities in just minutes, and zero emissions other than pure water, the Mirai serves as a tangible step toward a clean, hydrogen-based future.
“Toyota is targeting a 30% increase in the Mirai’s driving range by improving the fuel-cell system and introducing larger on-board hydrogen tanks,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice Present of Marketing at TSAM. “This vehicle represents our vision for how a sustainable hydrogen society could become a reality.”
Operational Support Vehicles:
- Toyota Corolla Cross (hybrid electric vehicle) x4
- Toyota Corolla Cross – White x1
- Toyota Hilux – White x4
- Toyota Fortuner – White x1
- Toyota Rumion – White x1
- Toyota Quantum – White x1
These support vehicles ensure smooth and efficient operations throughout the Sasol Solar Challenge event, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to both hybrid and hydrogen-based mobility solutions.
Sustainability at the Core of the Partnership:
The partnership with the Sasol Solar Challenge aligns with Toyota’s global mission to pioneer innovative mobility solutions that are environmentally friendly and practical for diverse markets.
“Africa has diverse needs, and TSAM is preparing all options, including Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), and Hydrogen Combustion Engines (H2ICE). Our multi-pathway approach ensures that no one is left behind as we work towards carbon neutrality,” says Crompton.
This approach also highlights Toyota’s dedication to enhancing the efficiency of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by exploring carbon-neutral green fuels, further illustrating its comprehensive vision for the future of transportation.
Enhancing Toyota’s Brand Visibility and Mission:
By partnering with the Sasol Solar Challenge, Toyota aims to strengthen its brand’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and carbon neutrality on a global scale.
The partnership not only showcases Toyota’s cutting-edge technology but also reinforces the brand’s dedication to delivering locally rooted solutions that address the specific market needs of each region.
Toyota is proud to demonstrate its full range of eco-friendly vehicles, from FCEVs to HEVs, and will continue working toward reducing CO2 emissions globally.
A Vision for the Future
Toyota’s collaboration with the Sasol Solar Challenge provides an ideal platform to demonstrate the real-world capabilities of its sustainable mobility solutions. From the Toyota Mirai’s hydrogen fuel-cell technology to the versatile lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles, the brand is committed to showcasing a broad range of options to tackle carbon neutrality.
“We hope this partnership highlights the immense potential of these technologies and inspires a future where sustainable mobility is not just an option, but the standard,” Crompton concluded.
Toyota’s support of the Sasol Solar Challenge is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and its leadership in the transition toward a cleaner and greener future.
Editor’s Notes:
About Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM): Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is a leader in the automotive industry, committed to providing mobility solutions that are innovative, sustainable, and customer focused. With a broad portfolio of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), and more, TSAM continues to drive the future of mobility while working to
