BMW will launch the first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle in 2028. The company is promoting the development of hydrogen infrastructure in collaboration with Toyota.
The group embraces a “technology openness” approach to providing its customers with various mobility options. It is working to advance hydrogen fuel cell technology at a time when everyone, itself included, is betting on EVs.
The Board of Management Chairman of BMW AG, Oliver Zipse, called the upcoming vehicle “a milestone in automotive technology.” He says it would be “powered by hydrogen and driven by the spirit of our cooperation.”
Perhaps rather prematurely, Zipse stated confidently that it will “herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.”
Koji Sato, Toyota Motor Corp President and Member of the Board of Management (Representative Director), said the company plans to work with BMW and other partners across various industries to “realize a future where hydrogen energy supports society.” He also spoke of the shared beliefs of both brands in “technology openness” and a “multi-pathway approach to carbon neutrality.”
BMW and Toyota will jointly develop the passenger vehicle powertrain system, with the core fuel cell technology creating synergies for commercial applications as well.
The technology will be used in models from both BMW and Toyota, providing more FCEV options for customers.
Following the testing of its BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, BMW is preparing for a series production of vehicles with hydrogen drive systems in 2028. It says these models will integrate into its portfolio so that an existing model will be available in a hydrogen fuel cell drive system option.
Though hydrogen stations are currently scarce, BMW and Toyota support the expansion of hydrogen refueling alongside battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Both are also working with companies to promote sustainable hydrogen production, including those building low-carbon hydrogen production, distribution, and refueling facilities.
Both BMW and Toyota said they plan to advocate for governments and investors to create a framework to support hydrogen vehicles, ensuring that they become more commonplace and economically viable in the future.