BMW’s first hydrogen-powered car to be launched in 2028

BMW plans to enter the FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) segment within the next four years. As the global demand for alternative fuels continues to grow, the Bavarian automaker BMW plans to add hydrogen-powered vehicles to its lineup by 2028. This will be the company’s first mass-market hydrogen-powered car, followed by existing BMW fuel cell models.

Although it is not yet clear, the new hydrogen-powered car is likely to be based on the X5 and use the same CLAR platform as the ICE (internal combustion engine) and plug-in hybrid models. As an extension of its existing partnership with Japanese brand Toyota, BMW will equip the model with hydrogen fuel cell technology developed together with the Japanese company. “Powered by hydrogen and driven by a spirit of cooperation, it will highlight how technological progress is shaping the future of mobility. It will herald the arrival of an era when fuel cell electric vehicles are in high demand,” said Oliver Zipse, chairman of BMW.

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BMW and Toyota recently announced to strengthen their cooperation in the field of hydrogen energy, with the two brands agreeing to jointly develop third-generation fuel cell systems and improve infrastructure. According to the recently signed agreement, the third-generation fuel cell system will be installed in the models of both companies to provide customers with a wide range of FCEVs.

Toyota President Koji Sato said: “Throughout our long-standing collaboration, we have confirmed that BMW and Toyota share the same passion for cars and a strong belief in ‘technological openness’ and ‘multiple pathways’ to carbon neutrality. Based on these shared values, we will deepen our collaboration, such as the joint development of next-generation fuel cell systems and the expansion of infrastructure, with the goal of realizing a hydrogen society. Together with BMW and partners from all walks of life, we will accelerate our efforts to realize a future in which hydrogen supports society.”

BMW and Toyota partnership: A review

Recall that BMW and Toyota initially signed an agreement in 2011 to establish a “medium- to long-term” partnership in the field of environmentally friendly technologies, including fuel cells and sports cars. The scope of the agreement was later expanded to include other projects.

Toyota has joined the hydrogen industry

While BMW will launch a mass-produced FCEV globally in 2028, Toyota is already selling the Mirai sedan, albeit in limited numbers. The Mirai is based on the Lexus LS and is a second-generation model. It has three hydrogen fuel tanks – two under the floor and one in the trunk. The fuel cell stack, located under the hood, was built in collaboration with the Bavarian automaker.

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The Toyota Mirai was first unveiled in 2015 and is one of the first zero-emission hydrogen-powered electric vehicles to reach mass production and be available for regular purchase.