Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has announced a strategic investment in FirstElement Fuel, Inc. (FEF), the largest retail hydrogen fueling infrastructure provider in California, to expand and strengthen the hydrogen fueling network in the United States.
The Toyota partnership aims to support today’s fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) customers and lay the groundwork for future generations of hydrogen-powered mobility.
Focus on California hydrogen network
FirstElement Fuel currently operates 92 retail hydrogen fueling positions across 38 locations in California, giving it a leading role in the state’s hydrogen refueling ecosystem. The new investment is expected to enhance reliability, accessibility and coverage of these stations, improving the day-to-day experience of FCEV drivers.
Toyota’s broader mobility strategy
Toyota, a fixture in North America for nearly 70 years, positions this move as part of its commitment to sustainable, next-generation mobility through both Toyota and Lexus brands and a broad dealer network. The company employs nearly 64,000 people in North America and has produced close to 49 million vehicles at 14 manufacturing plants, including a North Carolina facility that began assembling automotive batteries for electrified vehicles in 2025.
Role of Toyota Hydrogen Headquarters
Toyota Hydrogen Headquarters (H2HQ), based in Gardena, California, serves as the lead office for hydrogen fuel cell technology development, engineering, commercialization and business operations in North America. H2HQ works with R&D centers in Michigan and Texas, as well as international units, to advance zero-emission fuel cell solutions that support the movement of people, goods, energy and information.
Toyota: FirstElement Fuel’s leadership position
Founded in 2013, FirstElement Fuel focuses on delivering safe, reliable retail hydrogen to fuel cell vehicle customers and is recognized as a leading hydrogen refueling station provider in California and globally. With facilities in Irvine, Santa Ana and Livermore, and its 92 fueling positions statewide, the company is a key partner in scaling hydrogen availability as more FCEVs enter the market.