A new agreement has been signed by BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation, to strengthen their collaboration in the development of hydrogen cars.
Under the deal, the companies will jointly develop a third-generation hydrogen fuel cell system, set to be installed in both companies’ vehicles. This is set to begin with BMW launching its first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle in 2028.
The companies will also work to create synergies in development and procurement, and amalgamate powertrain units.
The new agreement follows on from a deal signed by BMW and Toyota in 2011 to establish a mid-to-long-term cooperative relationship in environmental technology.
BMW previously produced a pilot hydrogen version of its X5 SUV, while Toyota has sold the hydrogen-powered Mirai.
BMW AG chairman of the board of management Oliver Zipse 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 vehicles.”
Toyota president Koji Sato said: “We are pleased 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 realisation of a hydrogen society.
“We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realise a future where hydrogen energy supports society.”
