Highlights

• BMW and Toyota are working on next-generation hydrogen fuel cell technology.
• The partnership will boost hydrogen mobility and infrastructure.
• FCEVs will complement existing electric and hybrid cars.
• Both companies support hydrogen infrastructure and low-carbon hydrogen.

BMW will be introducing its first fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028, an all-new zero-emissions option to the range.

This is part of the partnership with Toyota Motor Corporation, combining their expertise to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology. Both companies are backing the hydrogen economy and this emission-free technology.

BMW has a long history of electric drive systems and is now applying this expertise to hydrogen fuel cells. The company is taking a technology-open approach to future mobility solutions.

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of BMW AG said, “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.”

Toyota President Koji Sato said, “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."

Collaborative Powertrain Development

BMW and Toyota will develop a new powertrain for passenger cars. The shared technology will include 3rd generation fuel cells which will be used in both companies’ models. This will increase FCEV availability and reduce technology costs through shared development and procurement.

New Hydrogen Model

BMW’s new hydrogen production car will be launched in 2028 after the global testing of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. This will slot into BMW’s existing model range alongside battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Deeper Partnership and Hydrogen Economy

BMW and Toyota have been working together for over 10 years and are now taking their next-generation fuel cell development to the next level. They are also building the hydrogen refuelling infrastructure and low-carbon hydrogen.

The companies want to create an environment for hydrogen mobility, and government and investor support to make hydrogen cars economically viable. They are also working on regional projects to develop hydrogen infrastructure.

Hydrogen in the Energy Mix

Hydrogen is key to global decarbonisation, it is an energy storage medium for renewable energy. It balances energy supply and demand, where battery electric is not practical.

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Source: BMW