BMW and Toyota join forces to develop hydrogen-powered vehicles

KUALA LUMPUR: After previously working together on the BMW Z4 and Toyota Supra projects, BMW and Toyota have once again joined forces. This time, the two automotive giants are set to co-develop cutting-edge fuel cell technology, marking a significant step forward toward cleaner, hydrogen-powered vehicles.

If we look at their previous ventures into the FCEV space, Toyota is one of the pioneering players with the hydrogen-powered Mirai leading the segment for nearly a decade. BMW, on the other hand, is quite late to the party. So far, it has only tested its iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet globally, showcasing its interest in exploring alternative energy sources. 

Under the new collaboration, BMW and Toyota will jointly develop a shared powertrain system using third-generation fuel cells. Both companies will individually use it for their passenger vehicles.

BMW has announced that its first hydrogen-powered production model will hit the market in 2028. The hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will expand the brand’s existing lineup, which includes battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and internal combustion engine vehicles.

As the hydrogen-powered BMW model is still in the early stages of development, technical details are scarce at the moment. However, it is anticipated that the brand’s upcoming Neue Klasse line-up may incorporate hydrogen fuel cell technology as its platform supports FCEV architecture. 

Notably, Toyota will not be just rebadging the BMW hydrogen cars, instead, it will roll out its separate line-up of FCEVs using the shared powertrain system.

“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,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.“

Koji Sato, President and Member of the Board of Management (Representative Director) of Toyota Motor Corporation, 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 realisation of a hydrogen society. We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realise a future where hydrogen energy supports society."

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