Toyota Motor Corporation and the BMW Group have signed a new agreement to enhance their partnership in the hydrogen sector, aiming to promote a hydrogen-based society and achieve global carbon neutrality. The two companies will collaborate on fuel cell system development and work to improve the supporting infrastructure.
Building on their longstanding partnership, which began in 2011 with a focus on environmental technology, Toyota and BMW have jointly advanced the development of fuel cells and other green technologies. Now, they are accelerating innovation in fuel cell systems to offer more options for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and bring hydrogen technology to the mainstream.
The companies will collaborate on the development of a third-generation fuel cell system, set to be featured in both BMW and Toyota models. BMW’s first mass-produced FCEV is slated for launch in 2028. The partnership also aims to drive down production costs by merging powertrain units and increasing demand for both commercial and passenger fuel cell vehicles.
A key element of the collaboration will involve building sustainable hydrogen supply networks. Toyota and BMW will work with hydrogen producers, distributors, and refueling facilities to create stable supply chains and reduce costs, essential for the widespread adoption of hydrogen technology.
Koji Sato, President of Toyota, said, “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.”
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG said, “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.”