The Toyota Mirai is one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market today. It uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, which powers the car’s electric motor.
However, despite its cutting-edge technology and eco-friendliness, used Toyota Mirai cars are surprisingly cheap.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why that is, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of buying a used Toyota Mirai.
The Toyota Mirai: A Brief Overview
Before we dive into why used Toyota Mirai cars are so cheap, let’s take a brief look at what the car is all about.
The Toyota Mirai is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV) that was first introduced in 2015.
It has a sleek, futuristic design and is powered by a 114-kW electric motor that produces 153 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.
The Mirai’s fuel cells work by combining hydrogen and oxygen to create electricity. The electricity is then used to power the car’s electric motor, which drives the wheels.
The only byproduct of this process is water, making the Mirai one of the cleanest and most environmentally friendly cars on the road.
Compared to other FCVs on the market, the Mirai is relatively affordable, with a starting price of around $50,000.
However, the cost of fueling the car can be quite expensive, as hydrogen fuel is not widely available and can cost up to $16 per kilogram.
Read also: Why Are Used Ford Explorers So Cheap?
Why are Used Toyota Mirai So Cheap?
Despite its cutting-edge technology and eco-friendliness, used Toyota Mirai cars are surprisingly cheap. There are several factors that contribute to this, including:
– Decreasing Demand for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
One of the main reasons why used Toyota Mirai cars are so cheap is because of the decreasing demand for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
While FCVs were once seen as the future of the automotive industry, there has been a shift towards battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in recent years.
This is due in part to the increasing availability and affordability of electric vehicles (EVs) with longer ranges.
Additionally, the limited infrastructure for hydrogen fueling stations makes it difficult for drivers to find a place to refuel their FCVs.
This can be a major deterrent for potential buyers, as it limits the practicality and convenience of owning a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.
– Limited Infrastructure for Hydrogen Fueling Stations
As mentioned above, the limited infrastructure for hydrogen fueling stations is a major obstacle for FCVs like the Toyota Mirai.
While the number of hydrogen fueling stations has been steadily increasing in recent years, there are still relatively few compared to gas stations or EV charging stations.
This lack of infrastructure makes it difficult for drivers to plan long trips or even daily commutes, as they may not be able to find a hydrogen fueling station in their area.
This can be a major turn-off for potential buyers, who may opt for a more practical and convenient alternative.
– Lack of Consumer Awareness and Education
Another factor that contributes to the low demand for used Toyota Mirai cars is the lack of consumer awareness and education about hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
Many people are still unfamiliar with how FCVs work and may be hesitant to invest in a technology they don’t fully understand.
Additionally, there is a perception that FCVs are more expensive and less practical than other eco-friendly cars like BEVs or hybrids.
This misconception can be difficult to overcome, especially when there is limited marketing and promotion of FCVs in the mainstream media.
– Comparison with Other Eco-Friendly Cars
Finally, the low demand for used Toyota Mirai cars can also be attributed to the competition from other eco-friendly cars on the market.
While the Mirai is a very eco-friendly car, there are many other options available that may be more appealing to consumers.
For example, battery-electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf are becoming more affordable and offer longer ranges than they did just a few years ago.
Additionally, hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius offer a practical and affordable alternative to traditional gas-powered cars.
Advantages of Buying a Used Toyota Mirai
Despite the low demand for used Toyota Mirai cars, there are several advantages to buying one if you’re in the market for an eco-friendly vehicle.
Here are a few reasons why you might consider a used Mirai:
– Lower Cost of Ownership Compared to New Mirai or Other Eco-Friendly Cars
The biggest advantage of buying a used Toyota Mirai is the lower cost of ownership compared to a new Mirai or other eco-friendly cars.
While the initial cost of a new Mirai can be quite high, used models can be found for significantly less.
Additionally, the cost of fueling the car with hydrogen may be offset by lower maintenance costs, as FCVs have fewer moving parts than traditional gas-powered cars.
– Availability of Used Toyota Mirai Models
Another advantage of buying a used Toyota Mirai is the availability of models. While the demand for FCVs may be low, there are still a number of used Mirai cars available for purchase.
This gives you more options when it comes to finding a car that fits your budget and needs.
– The Unique Driving Experience of a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car
Finally, owning a Toyota Mirai offers a unique driving experience that you won’t get with other cars.
The car is incredibly quiet and smooth, and the instant torque provided by the electric motor makes for a fun and exciting ride.
Additionally, the fact that the only byproduct of the car’s operation is water adds to the eco-friendliness of the vehicle.
How to Buy a Used Toyota Mirai?
If you’re interested in buying a used Toyota Mirai, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some tips for finding and buying a used Mirai:
– Research the Market
The first step in buying a used Toyota Mirai is to research the market. Look at listings on websites like Autotrader or Cars.com to get an idea of what’s available and what the prices are like.
Additionally, check out online forums and communities for FCV owners to get a sense of what it’s like to own a Mirai.
– Consider the Cost of Fueling the Car
As mentioned earlier, the cost of fueling a Toyota Mirai can be quite high. Before you buy a used Mirai, make sure you understand the cost of hydrogen fuel in your area and factor that into your budget.
Additionally, consider the availability of hydrogen fueling stations in your area and whether that will be a practical option for your daily driving needs.
– Look for Certified Pre-Owned Models
If you’re worried about buying a used car with an unknown history or potential issues, consider looking for a certified pre-owned Toyota Mirai.
These cars have been inspected and refurbished by Toyota, and often come with extended warranties and other perks.
– Consider Maintenance and Repair Costs
While FCVs like the Toyota Mirai have fewer moving parts than gas-powered cars, they can still require maintenance and repairs from time to time.
Before you buy a used Mirai, make sure you understand the potential costs of maintenance and repairs, and factor that into your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, used Toyota Mirai cars are so cheap because of the decreasing demand for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, the limited infrastructure for hydrogen fueling stations, the lack of consumer awareness and education, and the competition from other eco-friendly cars on the market
Interested in purchasing a used Toyota Mirai? Discover the reasons why are used Toyota Mirai So Cheap, and whether it’s worth taking the plunge.
