BMW and Toyota to Pioneer Next-Generation Fuel Cell Technology
BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are strengthening their collaboration in the field of fuel cell technology, with the aim to bring Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) options to passenger cars. The first series production fuel cell vehicle will be launched by BMW in 2028.
A New Era of Hydrogen Mobility
The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are combining their technological expertise to develop and create a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology. Both companies are committed to advancing the hydrogen economy and are expanding their collaboration to push this zero-emission technology forward. BMW’s expertise in electric drive technologies and its commitment to a ‘technology-openness’ approach aims to provide customers with a diverse range of mobility solutions.
“This is a milestone in automotive history: the first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle to be offered by a global premium manufacturer,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “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) Toyota Motor Corporation, added, “We are pleased that the collaboration between BMW and Toyota has entered a new stage. 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 Powertrain Development for Attractive FCEV Options
The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation will jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology (the individual third-generation fuel cells) creating synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications. This collaborative effort provides for individual models from both BMW and Toyota and will expand the range of FCEV options to customers.
Collaborating on development and procurement will drive down the costs of fuel cell technology, allowing for a more accessible and cost-effective technology. BMW is planning to launch its first hydrogen-powered production model in 2028, integrated into its existing vehicle portfolio.
As FCEV technology is another electric vehicle technology, the BMW Group explicitly views it adding to the technologies used by battery electric vehicles (BEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and internal combustion engines (ICE).
A Decade of Partnership and a Shared Vision
The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation have a decade-long history of collaboration. They are now extending this cooperation to accelerate innovation of next-generation fuel cell powertrain systems. They share a vision of advancing the hydrogen economy and support expanding both hydrogen fueling and battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Both companies are also working to establish a sustainable hydrogen supply by creating demand, working closely with companies involved in low-carbon hydrogen production, distribution and fueling facilities. They are also encouraging governments and investors to support the early adoption of hydrogen mobility, and they seek regional or local projects to further drive the development of hydrogen infrastructure.
Advantages of Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier
Hydrogen is seen as a key enabler in global decarbonization. It can store energy from renewable sources, ensuring better balance between its supply and demand and enabling a more stable integration of renewables into the energy grid. Hydrogen-powered FCEVs offer a key alternative where battery electric drive might have implementation problems.
