Toyota, BMW join hands to push next-gen hydrogen fuel cell system

Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. and Germany’s BMW Group have signed a deal to jointly develop a third-generation fuel cell system, the companies said in a statement.

The third-generation fuel cell system, the companies said, will be installed in models of both the companies to offer customers a broader range of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV).

As part of the deal, the companies said they would offer a wider range of options to customers by equipping more passenger cars with fuel cell systems, with BMW planning to launch its first mass-produced FCEV in 2028, the statement said.

Both companies had signed a deal in December 2011 to set up a mid-long-term cooperative relationship in environmental technology, and have jointly advanced the development of environmental technologies, including fuel cells and sports cars, for over a decade, they said in the statement.

Sharing a common vision of “realizing a hydrogen society,” the two companies will continue to accelerate technological innovation in fuel cell systems, they added.

Both companies will also work to create synergies through collaboration in development and procurement as well as drive down costs by amalgamating powertrain units to expand commercial and passenger vehicle demand. By making FCEV a more accessible option, the partnership will contribute to the creation of a hydrogen society, they said.

Recognizing the the need to create clusters of demand for hydrogen in the early stages, Toyota and BMW said they would encourage sustainable hydrogen supply by creating demand and working closely with hydrogen-producing companies as well as distribution and refueling facilities to ensure stable hydrogen supply and cut costs.

“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,” Koji Sato, president of Toyota Motor, 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,” Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board, BMW, said.

Toyota has positioned hydrogen as a key energy source in its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, and has been advancing initiatives in collaboration with many partners across the areas of “producing, transporting, storing, and using” hydrogen.