Official images of the production version Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) which is scheduled to go on sale in 2015 have been revealed.

The Toyota FCV first came into light as a concept model earlier this year. The production version looks very much like the concept and is said to be the company’s first ever mass produced hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle.

Although Toyota is still to reveal more information on the model, the image show it sporting a huge front bumper with a low grille along with some slim headlights which seem to feature LED technology, as well as vertical daytime running lights.

Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicle details

Spec details are yet to be confirmed, but the automaker previously mentioned that the model will be able to complete the 0-100 kph run in just 10 seconds, and will offer a maximum range of around 482 km. The process to fill up with hydrogen will only take about three minutes. Fuel cell vehicles represent an interesting alternative to electric cars such as the BMW i3 and hybrids like the Toyota Auris HSD, and have one unique ability – the by-product of the engine is water vapour.

However the technology is very expensive and let’s be honest, have you ever seen a hydrogen station in SA? Even in first world places like California, hydrogen stations are rare and mostly in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

That said, theaim is to make this car affordable and approximate pricing for the Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicle has been announced. Seven million Yen, or about R800 000 is competitive, considering most would assume a car like this would cost well over R1 million.

We’ll keep you posted when more details emerge.