- Toyota believes hydrogen power can play a key role in achieving global carbon neutrality.
- The automaker partnered with a sauna manufacturer to showcase an intriguing new concept.
- Most modern saunas are either electric of wood-burning offerings, but this one is very different.
The auto industry is in the midst of a radical transformation being led by new powertrains and innovative technologies. Given the shifts that are underway, one would have thought that Toyota, the world’s largest car manufacturer, would be dedicating every resource possible to ensure its future models are among the finest on the market. However, it has somehow found the time to develop a sauna unlike any other.
Presented as a concept and co-developed with Finnish sauna maker Harvia, this unit is reportedly the world’s first hydrogen-powered sauna
Read: Toyota’s Third-Gen Fuel Cell Is Cheaper And 20% More Efficient
Now, it’s no secret that Toyota is investing heavily in hydrogen, and even BMW’s first hydrogen production vehicle will use the a fuel-cell from the Japanese brand. But using the same principles to create a sustainable sauna? That’s a new one.
It recently made its premiere at the World Sauna Forum (yes, that’s a real thing) in Finland and uses a special hydrogen combustion heater to channel flames and warm air through traditional sauna stones. This system only generates steam and warm air, serving as a clean alternative to electric or traditional wood-burning stoves, and emitting precisely zero CO2 when in use.
Toyota has long believed that hydrogen will play an important role in achieving carbon neutrality across several important industries, hence why it’s decided to showcase what it can do in the world of saunas.
There’s no word on whether sauna manufacturer Harvia actually intends on turning this project into a production model, but we’re sure there would be plenty of people willing to open their wallets for a clean, and environmentally-friendly sauna.
“This collaboration with Toyota allows us to push the boundaries of sauna innovation and demonstrate our dedication to environmental responsibility,” Harvia’s head of innovation and technology, Timo Harvia said. “Toyota’s deep expertise in hydrogen handling and combustion gave us a safe and efficient way to pursue hydrogen as a clean energy source―something we might not have considered this soon without such a trusted partner.”
