Toyota and BMW to Jointly Develop New Fuel Cell Driving System in Tie-Up Expansion
Key Ideas
  • Toyota and BMW will collaborate on a new driving system for fuel cell vehicles, with BMW planning to release its first mass-produced FCV model in 2028 powered by the joint system.
  • The partnership aims to reduce costs through economies of scale and includes the development of hydrogen stations in Europe, with Toyota continuing to supply fuel cells to BMW.
  • Both automakers emphasize the importance of technology openness for faster achievement of carbon neutrality, highlighting the potential of FCVs in the green vehicle market.
  • While some automakers reconsider their focus on battery electric vehicles due to slowing demand, Toyota and BMW express optimism in unleashing the full potential of hydrogen for future automotive solutions.
Toyota Motor Corp. and BMW AG have announced an expansion of their partnership to jointly develop a new driving system for fuel cell vehicles. BMW plans to introduce its first mass-produced FCV model in 2028, equipped with the collaborative powertrain, and Toyota will integrate the system into its FCV lineup. The two companies will work on components of the driving system, excluding fuel cells which will continue to be supplied by Toyota to BMW. Additionally, they will collaborate on building hydrogen stations in Europe to support the infrastructure for FCVs. The partnership aims to achieve cost reductions for FCVs through economies of scale, with BMW focusing on leveraging Toyota's expertise in this area. Both companies underline the significance of technology openness in advancing towards carbon neutrality at a faster pace. FCVs are recognized as a promising green vehicle option, utilizing hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity and emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. Despite the potential of FCVs, challenges such as high prices and limited hydrogen infrastructure hinder their mass-market adoption. Nevertheless, FCVs offer advantages like longer range and quicker refueling compared to battery electric vehicles. As some automakers reevaluate their strategies amid slowing demand for EVs, Toyota and BMW remain optimistic about the future of hydrogen as a viable automotive solution. Toyota President Koji Sato and BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse conveyed their commitment to maximizing the potential of hydrogen in their joint video message, highlighting the importance of collaboration in embracing this sustainable technology for the automotive industry.
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