BMW and Toyota Forge Ahead with Fuel-Cell Partnership for Next-Gen FCEVs
Key Ideas
- BMW and Toyota are expanding their partnership to develop new fuel-cell technology for their next-generation FCEVs, with production models expected by 2028.
- Toyota's experience with hydrogen technology, like the Mirai, and BMW's utilization of fuel-cell components are driving this joint effort towards hydrogen-powered vehicles.
- Both carmakers aim to address infrastructure challenges by working on expanding hydrogen refueling stations, recognizing the potential of hydrogen fuel cells as another EV technology.
- The collaboration between BMW and Toyota signifies a significant step towards promoting hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles for zero-emission mobility with quick refueling times, despite existing production and infrastructure challenges.
BMW and Toyota have announced an extension of their partnership to jointly develop new fuel-cell technology for their upcoming Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs). The first production models resulting from this collaboration are anticipated to be available in 2028, adding to the zero-emission powertrain offerings of both manufacturers. With the EV market experiencing a slowdown, many carmakers are reevaluating their strategies, leading to some transitioning back to hybrid powertrains and others exploring alternative solutions to fossil fuels. Toyota, known for its support of hydrogen, currently produces the Mirai FCEV, although its sales numbers are modest globally. BMW, on the other hand, has leveraged Toyota's fuel-cell tech to initiate its FCEV development, unveiling the BMW iX5 FCEV prototype. BMW's future plans include incorporating hydrogen fuel cells into mainstream models alongside their existing EV lineup. The partnership between BMW and Toyota aims not only to develop FCEVs but also to enhance hydrogen infrastructure to support wider adoption. Despite the challenges of expensive production and limited infrastructure, the collaboration signifies a positive step towards advancing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles for sustainable and rapid refueling mobility.