BMW to Launch Hydrogen-Powered Cars in 2028
BMW is set to make history by becoming the first car manufacturer to launch a mass-market hydrogen-powered car. The German brand, in partnership with Toyota, plans to introduce its first hydrogen-powered model in 2028, followed by several fuel-cell variants of existing models. This move marks a significant milestone in the automotive industry.
First Model: X5 SUV
The X5 SUV is expected to be the first model to benefit from this new technology. BMW has already been testing a modified fleet of its best-selling X5, indicating its commitment to hydrogen fuel-cell powertrains.
Collaboration with Toyota
BMW’s hydrogen-powered cars will utilize powertrains co-developed with Toyota. The partnership between the two car manufacturers has been strengthened to focus on the development of hydrogen fuel-cell technology.
“This is a milestone in automotive history,” said BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse. “Powered by hydrogen and driven by the spirit of cooperation, it will underscore how technological progress is shaping future mobility.”
Mass-Produced FCEV
BMW’s entry into the hydrogen-powered car market will make it the first car maker to offer a mass-produced fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). While Toyota’s Mirai saloon and Hyundai’s Nexo SUV have been available in limited numbers, BMW aims to meet significant demand for FCEVs.
The collaboration between BMW and Toyota will expand the range of FCEV options available to customers. By working together on development and procurement, the two companies aim to drive down the costs of fuel cell technology.
Investment in Hydrogen Infrastructure
BMW and Toyota have called on governments worldwide to invest in hydrogen infrastructure to support the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles. Koji Sato, President of Toyota, stated, “We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realize a future where hydrogen energy supports society.”
Toyota has been a strong advocate for hydrogen-powered cars and has been actively developing both hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen combustion engines. The company plans to enter a prototype with a hydrogen combustion engine in the 2027 edition of the Le Mans 24 Hours.
BMW’s foray into hydrogen-powered cars signifies a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for the automotive industry. With its partnership with Toyota and its commitment to hydrogen fuel-cell technology, BMW is leading the way in shaping the future of mobility.
