How will it work?

The system, currently being tested in the Toyota GR Corolla hydrogen-powered race car, uses two key components:

• carbon filters: These filters are integrated into the front of the vehicle. They actively capture CO2 from the surrounding air while the vehicle is in motion. The captured CO2 is then converted into liquid using the waste heat produced by the engine itself.
• liquid tank: The liquid containing the captured CO2 is stored in a tank. It is noteworthy that this process does not require additional energy consumption.

Promises and challenges

Toyota’s vision is extremely ambitious; creating gasoline-powered cars that not only run efficiently but also contribute to carbon neutrality. However, there are some obstacles on this path.

• Limited carbon sequestration: In 20 laps around the track, the GR Corolla race car’s filters captured only about 20 grams of CO2. For comparison, a typical gasoline car emits almost 8,900 grams of CO2 per gallon (3.7 liters) consumed.
• Permanent replacement: The current system captures too little carbon to significantly offset emissions. Filters need to be changed frequently, which is a practical problem for average drivers.

Toyota’s broader approach

While other automakers are turning to electric vehicles, Toyota remains steadfast in its commitment to a wide range of alternative fuels and technologies. President Akio Toyoda recently announced a “major engine development project” signaling the company’s commitment to improving internal combustion engines.

Toyota believes gasoline engines, hybrids and fuel cell vehicles will continue to play an important role. Adding carbon capture filters to gasoline engines can make them carbon negative, further reducing their environmental impact.

There’s still a long way to go

Although Toyota’s carbon capture technology is not yet ready for mass production, it is an important step towards greener driving. As the auto industry grapples with the transition to cleaner energy sources, Toyota’s approach is a reminder that innovation can come from unexpected places.

We’re used to electric cars making headlines, but Toyota’s commitment to improving existing technologies shows that the path to sustainability is multifaceted. While we await further developments, one thing is clear: The race to reduce emissions is far from over, and Toyota is determined to lead the way.