Toyota has been given the go-ahead to self-inspect the high pressure hydrogen tanks it makes for its fuel cell vehicles.
Under Japanese legislation, all containers and accessories for storing gases at pressures of 1MPa (10 bar) and above must be type certified, and are subjected to witnessed inspections by the High Pressure Gas Safety Institute of Japan during the manufacturing process.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Hydrogen tanks require an additional inspection upon completion which, until now, has meant inspectors were required to be present during the manufacture of tanks for Toyota’s various test vehicles.
This, in turn, meant that tank inventory control and manufacturing plans, in addition to broader FCV production plans, needed to be adjusted around tank inspection schedules. The carmaker has now received approval from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to self-inspect the tanks after demonstrating that it possesses a high level manufacturing quality management system.
Toyota said it will now be able to manufacture tanks using in-house inspectors, without the need for witnessed inspections. The company believes this will lead to improved manufacturing efficiency for high pressure hydrogen tanks, and to productivity improvements and cost reductions for FCVs.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalData
