The Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell sedan has lost 65% of its value within just 12 months, according to a CarBuzz report. Despite this record depreciation, Toyota is pushing ahead with a next-generation Mirai due in 2026, raising questions about hydrogen's role in an EV-dominated world.
The Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel-cell sedan, is facing an unprecedented crisis in the used-car market. According to a recent CarBuzz report, the Mirai loses roughly 65% of its value within 12 months of purchase—a record depreciation rate that makes it one of the worst value-retaining cars of the modern era.
Why did the Toyota Mirai’s value collapse so quickly?
The primary reason is the scarcity of hydrogen refueling infrastructure. In the United States, for example, there are only about 60 operational hydrogen stations, mostly concentrated in California. This severe shortage makes owning a Mirai a stressful experience, especially outside major urban areas. Additionally, the cost of hydrogen itself is high, increasing running costs compared to EVs or gasoline cars.
Is Toyota still producing the Mirai despite the losses?
Yes, Toyota confirms it is continuing development of the next-generation Mirai, expected to launch in 2026. The Japanese automaker is betting that hydrogen will play a pivotal role in future transportation, especially for trucks and buses. However, for passenger cars, the current Mirai seems to be a scapegoat for Toyota’s experiment with a technology that has yet to gain mass acceptance.
Toyota Mirai 2024-2026 Specifications
- Powertrain: Hydrogen fuel cell + small battery
- Power: 182 hp (136 kW)
- Range: Approximately 647 km (EPA cycle)
- 0-100 km/h: 9.2 seconds
- Base price (new): USD 49,500 (≈ SAR 185,600)
Can you buy a used Mirai as a bargain?
The idea of buying a used Mirai at a low price may be tempting, but caution is advised. Besides the difficulty of refueling, the Mirai faces issues with spare parts availability and specialized service. The fuel cell lifespan is limited (around 150,000–200,000 km), and replacement is very expensive. Therefore, it is recommended to buy a used Mirai only if you live near a working hydrogen station and have a clear لماذا الصيانة؟ plan.
What is the future of hydrogen in Gulf cars?
In Gulf countries, there are currently no public hydrogen stations for cars, making the Mirai unsuitable for daily use in the region. However, some countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are studying the creation of green hydrogen infrastructure in the future. Until then, electric and hybrid cars remain the most practical choices for Gulf drivers.
Conclusion: Is the Mirai worth a chance?
The Toyota Mirai is a technologically advanced car, but it is a victim of market conditions and infrastructure. Its sharp value drop reflects a difficult reality: great technology at the wrong time. If you are a tech enthusiast with easy access to hydrogen, a used Mirai could be a unique experience. For most buyers, the recommendation is clear: wait until hydrogen stations become widespread, or choose electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used Toyota Mirai cost after its value drop?
After losing 65% of its value, a used Mirai (2024-2025) can be found for between USD 17,000 and 20,000 (approx. SAR 64,000–75,000), depending on condition and mileage.
Are there hydrogen stations in Saudi Arabia or the UAE?
Currently, there are no public hydrogen stations for cars in any Gulf country. However, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing in green hydrogen projects, and commercial stations may appear after 2027-2028.
What is the difference between the Toyota Mirai and an EV like the Toyota bZ4X?
The Mirai runs on hydrogen and generates electricity via fuel cells, while the bZ4X is a pure EV that charges from a plug. The Mirai refuels in minutes, but infrastructure is nearly nonexistent. The bZ4X takes hours to charge but has more widespread charging stations.
Will the 2026 Toyota Mirai come with improvements?
Yes, Toyota plans to launch a next-generation Mirai in 2026 with improved range and lower costs. However, the company has not yet confirmed pricing or availability in Gulf markets.
Sources
- CarBuzz — The Modern Toyota That Lost 65% Of Its Value In One Year
