Toyota Electric Car 2018 Mirai Review Features and Performance

The 2018 Toyota Mirai isn’t just an electric car—it’s a hydrogen-powered revolution, offering zero emissions without the range anxiety of traditional EVs. With a sleek design, smooth performance, and a futuristic driving experience, the Mirai delivers up to 312 miles per fill-up and refuels in under five minutes. While limited hydrogen infrastructure remains a hurdle, the Mirai stands as a bold step toward sustainable innovation, blending Toyota’s reliability with cutting-edge fuel cell technology.

Key Takeaways

• Fuel cell tech: Mirai runs on hydrogen, not batteries—refuels in 5 minutes.
• Zero emissions: Only byproduct is water; ideal for eco-conscious drivers.
• Limited range: 312-mile range lags behind most EVs—plan trips carefully.
• Cutting-edge design: Futuristic styling stands out but may not suit all tastes.
• Low maintenance: Fewer moving parts reduce long-term ownership costs.
• Scarce infrastructure: Hydrogen stations are rare—verify local availability first.

The Toyota Electric Car That Runs on Water? Meet the 2018 Mirai

Picture this: You pull up to a gas station, but instead of pumping gasoline, you’re filling up on hydrogen. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? Well, that’s exactly what the 2018 Toyota Mirai is all about. As one of the first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell electric cars, the Mirai isn’t just another electric vehicle (EV)—it’s a bold step into the future of zero-emission transportation.

I remember the first time I saw the Mirai in person. It looked sleek, futuristic, almost like a spaceship on wheels. But what really caught my attention was how quiet it was. No engine roar, no exhaust fumes—just a smooth, silent drive powered by hydrogen. The 2018 Mirai represents Toyota’s vision of a world where cars don’t pollute, but still offer the convenience and range we expect from our daily drivers. Whether you’re curious about hydrogen technology, considering your first EV, or just love cutting-edge automotive innovation, this review will walk you through everything you need to know about the Toyota electric car 2018 Mirai—from its features and performance to real-world usability.

What Makes the 2018 Mirai Different from Regular Electric Cars?

Hydrogen Fuel Cell vs. Battery-Powered EVs

Most electric cars today—like Teslas, Nissan Leafs, or Chevy Bolts—run on big batteries that store electricity and power an electric motor. The 2018 Mirai works differently. Instead of a large lithium-ion battery, it uses a hydrogen fuel cell stack to generate electricity on demand. Here’s how it works: Hydrogen gas from the onboard tanks reacts with oxygen from the air inside the fuel cell, creating electricity. That electricity powers the motor, and the only byproduct? Pure water vapor—literally, a few drops of clean water come out of the tailpipe.

Think of it like this: A battery EV is like a flashlight with a rechargeable battery. You charge it, use it until it dies, then charge it again. The Mirai is more like a flashlight with a built-in generator that runs on hydrogen. You refill the hydrogen tank (like refueling gas), and the car generates power as you drive. This means no long charging times—just a 5-minute refill and you’re back on the road.

How the Fuel Cell System Works (Without the Tech Overload)

You don’t need to be a scientist to understand the basics. The Mirai has three main hydrogen tanks (holding up to 5 kg of compressed hydrogen at 10,000 psi), a fuel cell stack (about the size of a suitcase), and a small lithium-ion battery. When you press the gas pedal:

• Hydrogen flows from the tanks into the fuel cell
• Inside the fuel cell, hydrogen splits into protons and electrons
• The electrons create an electric current (powering the motor)
• Protons combine with oxygen to form water (which drips out)
• The small battery stores excess energy and provides extra boost during acceleration

The result? A smooth, responsive drive with zero tailpipe emissions. One cool side effect: The water dripping from the tailpipe is so pure, Toyota actually tested it and confirmed it’s drinkable (though we don’t recommend it—better to stick with bottled water!).

Real-World Comparison: Mirai vs. Battery EVs

I tested the Mirai on a 150-mile round trip from San Diego to Temecula. With a battery EV, I’d be sweating over charging stations and range anxiety. But with the Mirai, I filled up at a hydrogen station near my house, drove to Temecula (with plenty of range left), and refilled in under 5 minutes before heading home. No waiting, no stress. For drivers who hate long charging stops—or live in areas with spotty EV infrastructure—this is a game-changer.

Tip: If you’re considering the Mirai, check the California Hydrogen Station Map (the only state with public hydrogen stations in 2018). There were about 35 stations in 2018, mostly in LA, Orange County, and the Bay Area.

Design, Comfort, and Interior Features

Exterior Design: Futuristic but Polarizing

The 2018 Mirai’s design is bold—some might say love-it-or-hate-it. With its wide grille (which hides the air intake for the fuel cell), sharp creases, and low stance, it looks like a concept car that escaped the auto show. I got mixed reactions: My neighbor called it “futuristic,” while my brother said it looked like a “giant toaster.” But love it or not, it turns heads. The LED headlights and taillights add a high-tech vibe, and the 17-inch alloy wheels give it a premium feel.

One thing I noticed: The Mirai is surprisingly aerodynamic for its shape. With a drag coefficient of 0.29, it cuts through the air efficiently—which helps maximize range.

Interior Space and Materials

Step inside, and the Mirai feels more like a luxury sedan than a science experiment. The cabin is spacious, with soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors. Front seats are supportive and heated (great for cold mornings), while rear legroom is decent for a midsize sedan. The only quirk? The center console is bulky due to the fuel cell system underneath, so the center armrest is higher than usual.

Toyota didn’t skimp on quality. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels premium, and the piano-black trim (while a fingerprint magnet) adds elegance. My only gripe: The rear headroom is a bit tight for taller passengers—I’m 6’1”, and my hair brushed the headliner.

Infotainment and Tech Features

The Mirai’s 7-inch touchscreen runs Toyota’s Entune system, which is intuitive but not as flashy as Tesla’s interface. It includes:

• Navigation with hydrogen station locator (a must-have)
• Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay (added via update), and USB ports
• Premium JBL audio system (10 speakers, crisp sound)
• Voice recognition for calls and music

One standout feature: The “Fuel Cell Status” display shows real-time hydrogen usage, efficiency, and even how much water is being produced. It’s like a dashboard for the future!

Pro tip: Use the “Eco Mode” button to maximize efficiency. It smooths out acceleration and reduces HVAC power, adding about 10-15 miles of range on a full tank.

Performance: How Does the Mirai Drive?

Acceleration and Handling

The Mirai isn’t built for speed demons. With a single-speed transmission and 151 horsepower, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 9 seconds—slower than most EVs but on par with a Toyota Camry. But here’s the surprise: The electric motor delivers instant torque, so the Mirai feels peppy around town. Merging onto freeways is smooth, and it cruises at 70 mph with no strain.

Handling is where the Mirai shines. With a low center of gravity (thanks to the hydrogen tanks mounted low in the chassis), it corners with confidence. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension absorbs bumps well. I took it on a winding mountain road near Laguna Beach, and it stayed planted—no body roll or nervousness.

Range and Efficiency

The 2018 Mirai has an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles—impressive for a fuel cell car, but less than long-range battery EVs like the Tesla Model S (370+ miles). In real-world driving, I averaged 280-300 miles per fill-up, depending on speed and climate control use. Cold weather reduces efficiency (like all EVs), but not as drastically as with battery cars.

Hydrogen efficiency is measured in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). The Mirai gets 67 MPGe city, 67 MPGe highway, and 66 MPGe combined. That’s better than most gas cars but slightly worse than battery EVs (which often exceed 100 MPGe).

Braking and Regenerative Systems

The Mirai uses regenerative braking to capture energy when slowing down. It’s not as aggressive as some EVs (like the Nissan Leaf), but you can adjust the regen level using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. I found Level 2 regen ideal for city driving—it slows the car smoothly without feeling jerky.

One downside: The brake pedal feels a bit spongy at first. It takes a few days to get used to the blend of regen and mechanical braking.

Hydrogen Infrastructure: The Biggest Challenge

Where Can You Fill Up in 2018?

This is the elephant in the room. In 2018, hydrogen infrastructure was limited to California, with about 35 public stations. Most were clustered in urban areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. If you lived outside California, you were out of luck. Even within the state, some stations were unreliable—I once drove 20 miles to a station only to find it offline for maintenance.

The good news? Toyota partnered with Shell and other companies to expand the network. By 2023, California had over 60 stations, and stations were planned in Hawaii and the Northeast.

Cost of Hydrogen: Is It Affordable?

In 2018, hydrogen cost about $12–$16 per kilogram. A full tank (5 kg) cost roughly $60–$80, giving you ~300 miles of range. That’s comparable to gas (at $4/gallon) but more expensive than charging a battery EV (which costs ~$15–$20 for 300 miles). However, Toyota sweetened the deal with free hydrogen for the first three years of ownership—a major perk.

Tip: Use the Mirai Owner Portal to track free hydrogen credits and locate stations.

Home Refueling: A Future Possibility?

Unlike battery EVs, you can’t “refuel” the Mirai at home. But Toyota explored small-scale hydrogen generators for home use (still experimental in 2018). For now, you’re tied to public stations—a big hurdle for adoption.

Ownership Experience: Cost, Maintenance, and Incentives

Pricing and Lease Deals

The 2018 Mirai had a starting MSRP of $57,500, but most buyers leased it due to generous incentives. Toyota offered a $369/month lease with $2,499 down, including:

• 3 years of free hydrogen
• 3 years of ToyotaCare maintenance
• 8-year/100,000-mile fuel cell warranty

After federal and state incentives (up to $10,000 in California), the effective price dropped to ~$47,500. Still expensive, but competitive with luxury EVs like the BMW i3.

Maintenance: Less Than You Think

The Mirai’s maintenance is simpler than a gas car’s:

• No oil changes or exhaust system
• Fewer moving parts (no transmission, spark plugs, or catalytic converter)
• Only routine checks: tires, brakes, coolant, and cabin air filter

ToyotaCare covers the first two years or 25,000 miles, including oil changes (for the small battery) and tire rotations. After that, annual service costs average $200–$400.

Environmental Impact and Incentives

The Mirai’s environmental footprint depends on how the hydrogen is made. “Green hydrogen” (from renewable energy) is 100% clean, but most 2018 hydrogen came from natural gas (which produces CO2). Still, it’s cleaner than gasoline. The Mirai qualifies for:

• Federal tax credit: $8,000 (2018)
• California HOV carpool sticker (free solo access to carpool lanes)
• State rebates: Up to $5,000 (CA)

Real-world example: A friend in LA leased a Mirai and saved $15,000 in fuel and incentives over three years—plus avoided rush-hour traffic with the carpool sticker!

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2018 Mirai?

The Toyota electric car 2018 Mirai is a fascinating experiment in sustainable transportation. It’s not perfect, but it’s a bold step toward a cleaner future. Here’s the bottom line:

Buy it if:

• You live in California and have easy access to hydrogen stations
• You hate long charging times and want quick refueling
• You’re tech-savvy and love being part of an early adopter community

Skip it if:

• You’re not in California (no hydrogen stations elsewhere in 2018)
• You need maximum range (312 miles is good, but not class-leading)
• You want the lowest upfront cost (battery EVs are cheaper)

After driving the Mirai for a month, I came away impressed by its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and innovative tech. It’s not the future of EVs for everyone, but it’s a crucial piece of the puzzle. As hydrogen infrastructure grows, the Mirai’s limitations will fade—and its strengths (zero emissions, fast refueling, low maintenance) will shine brighter.

If you’re curious about the Toyota electric car 2018 Mirai, don’t just read about it—schedule a test drive. Fill up on hydrogen, listen to the silence, and taste the future. One thing’s for sure: The Mirai proves that the future of clean transportation isn’t just electric—it’s also hydrogen.

2018 Toyota Mirai Key Specs (Data Table)

Feature	Specification
Powertrain	Hydrogen fuel cell, 151 hp electric motor
Range	312 miles (EPA)
0–60 mph	9.0 seconds
Hydrogen Capacity	5 kg (10,000 psi, 3 tanks)
Fuel Economy	67 MPGe city / 67 MPGe highway
Refueling Time	3–5 minutes
Curb Weight	4,075 lbs
MSRP (2018)	$57,500
Warranty	8-year/100,000-mile fuel cell system

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Toyota Electric Car 2018 Mirai different from other electric vehicles?

The 2018 Toyota Mirai stands out as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCEV), unlike most EVs that rely on lithium-ion batteries. It produces electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct.

How far can the 2018 Toyota Mirai travel on a full hydrogen tank?

The 2018 Mirai offers an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles per fill-up, making it competitive with traditional gasoline vehicles. Refueling takes just 3–5 minutes at hydrogen stations, similar to gas-powered cars.

Is the Toyota Mirai expensive to maintain compared to battery-electric cars?

The Mirai has fewer moving parts than combustion engines, reducing long-term maintenance costs, but hydrogen fuel can be pricier than electricity. Toyota includes complimentary hydrogen fuel for the first three years to offset initial costs.

Where can I refuel the 2018 Toyota Mirai, and is infrastructure a problem?

Hydrogen refueling stations are limited, primarily in California and select regions, which may restrict long-distance travel. Prospective buyers should verify station availability in their area before purchasing.

What are the key features of the 2018 Toyota Mirai’s interior and tech?

The Mirai includes premium touches like heated leather seats, a 7-inch touchscreen, and advanced safety tech (Toyota Safety Sense P). Its futuristic design emphasizes comfort and quiet operation due to the lack of engine noise.

How does the 2018 Mirai perform in terms of acceleration and handling?

The Mirai delivers smooth, quiet acceleration (0–60 mph in 9 seconds) and a comfortable ride, prioritizing efficiency over sportiness. Its low center of gravity, from hydrogen tanks, improves stability on the road.