TOKYO – W. L. Gore & Associates is pleased to announce that its GORE-SELECT Membrane received Toyota Motor Corporation’s prestigious Project Award in the Technology Section. GORE-SELECT Membrane was selected for its innovative technology, which contributes to the performance and value of the new MIRAI, Toyota’s premium fuel-cell electric vehicle introduced in December 2020.
Next-generation power and fuel efficiency
Toyota’s first-generation MIRAI revolutionized FCEVs when it launched in 2014. It incorporated GORE-SELECT Membrane as its PEM (proton exchange membrane) — the core material of its fuel cell stack. Now, an improved GORE-SELECT Membrane helps the second-generation MIRAI deliver an even greater level of performance: Toyota reports 128 kW (174 PS) of maximum fuel cell output with fuel efficiency of 152 km/kg (based on WLTC, Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycles). That translates to a cruising range of 850 km (reference value) per charge.
Enabling a compact, high-output fuel cell stack
At the heart of this performance improvement are recent advancements to the GORE-SELECT Membrane. It now features a 30 percent reduction in thickness for improved gas permeability and fuel efficiency, along with a unique reinforcement layer that significantly improves the membrane’s mechanical durability.
For Toyota, the improved GORE-SELECT Membrane meant the new MIRAI could have a more compact, higher-performance fuel cell stack with better durability and lower system cost.
“The science behind our unique reinforcement layer is a core technology Gore has cultivated for many years. Applying this technology to the GORE-SELECT Membrane enables impressive improvements in the fuel cell’s stack size, performance and cost,” said Shinichi Nishimura, Gore Fuel Cell Technologies Global Product Specialist.
“We were very excited to bring this advanced technology to our partners at Toyota, and very honored to be the recipients of their Project Award.”
Partnering for progress
Both Toyota and Gore are recognized leaders in fuel cell technology. Gore’s multi-decade expertise in membrane technology made them a highly qualified partner: Gore produced the first commercially available membrane electrode assembly (MEA), and since 1994 has been advancing the performance of PEMs for fuel cell vehicles. The GORE-SELECT Membrane is also compliant with the EU’s REACH regulations.
Gore is well positioned to partner with OEMs and Tiers globally. Its worldwide sales, R&D and manufacturing resources ensure a reliable source of supply for high-quality, high-performance products. The company’s commitment to innovation promises ongoing development for products, such as the GORE-SELECT Membrane, that can provide higher power output while minimizing system cost and total cost of ownership.
