BMW's first hydrogen car to debut in 2028
BMW has announced plans to introduce its first hydrogen-powered car in 2028. The new vehicle will be a hydrogen variant of an existing model in BMW's lineup. This announcement comes as part of the renewed partnership between Toyota and BMW, which aims to overcome challenges related to fuel cell vehicles and promote their adoption. Toyota and BMW have renewed their collaboration on hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, with a fresh memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Toyota, BMW aim to standardize components, reduce costs
The enhanced partnership between Toyota and BMW aims to standardize components, reduce the cost, and accelerate the development of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. This will be achieved by developing a shared powertrain. Additionally, the two companies plan to collaborate on building hydrogen refueling stations, addressing a significant hurdle to fuel cell vehicle adoption. Despite being the most abundant element in the universe, automakers have faced challenges in marketing fuel cell vehicles due to inadequate refueling infrastructure outside California.
Collaboration on fuel cell-powered commercial vehicles
In addition to upcoming passenger cars, Toyota and BMW will also collaborate on fuel cell-powered commercial vehicles. However, the companies are yet to disclose the specific type of these vehicles. They have called for a "conducive framework" between government and industry, to ensure a sustainable future for hydrogen technology.
A promising technology for zero-emission vehicles
Hydrogen fuel cells, which use compressed hydrogen as fuel and emit only water vapor, are seen as a promising technology for zero-emission vehicles. Several automakers have recently adopted this technology for heavy-duty vehicles and mobile power generators. The latest move from the two leading automakers is part of their strategy to transition away from polluting gas-powered vehicles and meet their own climate goals.
Toyota continues to sell passenger vehicles powered by fuel cells
Toyota remains one of the few companies selling passenger vehicles powered by fuel cells. The Toyota Mirai, only available in California, comes with a complimentary refueling voucher worth up to $15,000. As of June this year, Toyota had sold approximately 26,000 Mirais since its launch. BMW also has a fuel cell-powered vehicle, the iX5 Hydrogen but it is currently in the testing phase.
