BMW Group has unveiled plans to launch its first series production hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) by 2028. This move aligns with BMW’s broader strategy to significantly reduce CO2 emissions across the entire lifecycle of its vehicles, including supply chain, production, and usage, by at least 40% by 2030. Additionally, the company aims for 50% of its sales to be electric vehicles (EVs) by the same year, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable mobility.
BMW’s announcement follows extensive testing of its iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet worldwide, a concept first introduced in 2019. In early 2023, the pilot vehicles were launched, showcasing BMW’s belief that fuel cell technology could complement battery-electric vehicles. The iX5 Hydrogen vehicles have been central to this development, marking an important step toward the mass production of FCEVs. Meanwhile, BMW’s collaboration with Toyota, which began in 2013, will be pivotal in achieving these goals. Toyota has previously supplied individual fuel cells for the iX5 fleet, and the partnership aims to advance the development of third-generation fuel cell systems and hydrogen infrastructure.
Enhanced Collaboration with Toyota
BMW’s expanded hydrogen-focused collaboration with Toyota will play a crucial role. The two companies will work together on developing a third-generation fuel cell system that will be integrated into vehicles from both manufacturers. This partnership aims to create synergies in development and procurement, reducing costs to make FCEVs more accessible for both commercial and passenger applications. The collaboration will also promote infrastructure development to ensure a stable hydrogen supply and reduce overall costs, aiming to foster a sustainable hydrogen society.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, emphasized the historical significance of this development:
“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.”
Driving Down Costs and Expanding Infrastructure
Key areas of focus for the collaboration include joint efforts to develop next-generation fuel cell systems and expand infrastructure. Both companies aim to create synergies in procurement and development to reduce costs, making FCEVs more viable for a broader market. They will also engage with hydrogen-producing companies and distribution facilities to ensure a consistent hydrogen supply. Koji Sato, President of Toyota, highlighted the shared values and goals of the partnership:
“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.”
In earlier reports, BMW and Toyota have shown consistent commitment to hydrogen technology. BMW’s iX5 Hydrogen concept and Toyota’s Mirai model have both demonstrated the potential of FCEVs, though widespread adoption has been hindered by high costs and limited infrastructure. The new collaborative efforts aim to address these challenges by advancing fuel cell technology and fostering a supportive hydrogen ecosystem.
The partnership’s focus on reducing costs and expanding hydrogen infrastructure is crucial for broader adoption. By working closely with hydrogen-producing companies and refueling facilities, BMW and Toyota aim to ensure a stable hydrogen supply, making FCEVs a more practical option for consumers and businesses. The ongoing development of a third-generation fuel cell system will likely set new standards in the industry, driving innovation and sustainability forward.
BMW’s announcement signifies a major step towards a hydrogen-powered future, marking a significant milestone in the automotive industry. With the combined efforts of BMW and Toyota, the development of cost-effective and efficient FCEVs seems more achievable. This collaboration not only highlights the potential for hydrogen technology but also underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving carbon neutrality goals. By 2028, the introduction of a series production hydrogen vehicle could significantly impact the market, providing a viable alternative to traditional and battery-electric vehicles.
