BMW and Toyota Extend Collaboration to Advance Hydrogen Mobility
Munich. The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are expanding their collaboration to bring the next generation of fuel cell technology to passenger cars. This expanded partnership aims to accelerate the development and adoption of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), with BMW planning to launch its first series production FCEV in 2028.
The two automotive giants are pooling their expertise in electric drive technologies to advance hydrogen fuel cell technology. Both companies share the vision of promoting a hydrogen economy and are taking their collaboration to the next level to create zero-emission mobility solutions.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, stated, “This is a milestone in automotive history: the first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle to be offered by a global premium manufacturer. Powered by hydrogen and driven by the spirit of our cooperation, it will underscore how technological progress is shaping future mobility. And it will herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.”
Koji Sato, President and Member of the Board of Management (Representative Director) of Toyota Motor Corporation, added, “In our long history of partnership, we have confirmed that BMW and Toyota share the same passion for cars and belief in ‘technology openness’ and a ‘multi-pathway’ approach to carbon neutrality. Based on these shared values, we will deepen our collaboration in efforts such as the joint development of next-generation fuel cell systems and the expansion of infrastructure, aiming for the realization of a hydrogen society. We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realize a future where hydrogen energy supports society.”
Joint Development of Powertrain Systems
The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation will jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles. The core fuel cell technology, comprising the individual third-generation fuel cells, allows for synergies in both commercial and passenger vehicle applications. This collaborative effort promises to drive down the costs of fuel cell technology.
BMW is set to launch its first hydrogen-powered production model in 2028. This follows successful testing with the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet. The series production models will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio, offering customers a hydrogen fuel cell drive system variant alongside their current model choices.
Complementary Technologies and Infrastructure
The BMW Group views FCEV technology as complementary to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and internal combustion engines (ICEs). Both companies are therefore supporting the expansion of hydrogen refuelling and battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure, recognizing that a hydrogen society requires a robust and accessible infrastructure.
Both companies are also encouraging sustainable hydrogen supply. They are working with companies that are building low-carbon hydrogen production, distribution, and refuelling facilities.
Advancing the Hydrogen Economy
Hydrogen is recognized as a promising energy carrier for global decarbonization. It can act as an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, contributing to a more stable integration of renewables into the energy grid. For contexts where battery-electric systems may not be optimal, hydrogen provides an alternative.
The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are advocating for a supportive framework provided by governments and investors to facilitate the early adoption of hydrogen mobility. They are also seeking regional or local projects to boost hydrogen infrastructure development through collaborative initiatives.
