BMW and Toyota to Jointly Develop Next Generation of Fuel Cell Technology

The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation have announced plans to pool their innovative strength and their technological capabilities to bring to bring a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology to the roads. Both companies share the aim of advancing the hydrogen economy.

As an end result, they have extended their current collaboration to push this zero-emission technology to the next level.

They will jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology (the individual third-generation fuel cells) creating synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications.

The result of this collaborative effort will be utilised in individual models from both BMW and Toyota and will expand the range of FCEV options available to customers.

Customers can expect the BMW and Toyota FCEV models to maintain their distinct brand identities and characteristics, providing them with individual FCEV options to choose from. .

BMW says it will launch its first-ever series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028.

The series production models will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio.

It will offer an existing model in an additional hydrogen fuel cell drive system variant. 

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

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

BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation are supporting the expansion of both hydrogen refuelling and battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure.