Toyota Created Something So Unusual It Was Unveiled At A Sauna Convention | Carscoops

      The idea involves a combustion heater that produces only warm air and clean steam.

      

      19 hours ago

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       by Brad Anderson

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      Toyota believes that hydrogen energy can significantly contribute to achieving global carbon neutrality.

      The automaker has collaborated with a sauna manufacturer to present an interesting new concept.

      While most contemporary saunas are powered by electricity or wood-burning, this one stands out.

      The automotive sector is currently undergoing a dramatic change driven by new powertrains and innovative technologies. Given these ongoing transitions, one might think that Toyota, the largest car manufacturer in the world, would be channeling all its resources to ensure its upcoming models are among the best available. However, the company has still managed to create a unique sauna.

      Developed as a concept in partnership with Finnish sauna producer Harvia, this unit is claimed to be the world’s first hydrogen-powered sauna.

      It is widely known that Toyota is making significant investments in hydrogen, with BMW’s inaugural hydrogen production vehicle set to incorporate a fuel cell from the Japanese automaker. But applying the same principles to create an eco-friendly sauna is indeed a novel idea.

      This sauna recently debuted at the World Sauna Forum (which is actually an event) in Finland and utilizes a specialized hydrogen combustion heater to circulate flames and warm air through conventional sauna stones. This system exclusively generates steam and warm air, providing a clean alternative to both electric and traditional wood-burning stoves, with zero CO2 emissions during operation.

      Toyota has long maintained that hydrogen will be crucial in achieving carbon neutrality across various key sectors, which is why it has chosen to highlight its potential in the sauna industry.

      There has been no indication as to whether Harvia plans to develop this concept into a marketable product, but it’s likely that many consumers would be eager to invest in a clean and environmentally friendly sauna.

      “This collaboration with Toyota enables us to expand the horizons of sauna innovation and demonstrates our commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Timo Harvia, head of innovation and technology at Harvia. “Toyota’s extensive knowledge in hydrogen handling and combustion has provided us with a safe and effective approach to explore hydrogen as a clean energy resource—something we may not have contemplated so soon without such a reliable partner.”