BMW
BMW will launch first FCEV by 2028 in collaboration with Toyota
BMW and Toyota announced an agreement to develop and collaborate on the hydrogen segment and launch the first fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028.
Both companies will develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles including core fuel cell technology that can be used in commercial and passenger industries. However, FCEV models from both companies will maintain their distinct qualities based on separate brands.
BMW has been testing the FCEV tech in the BMW iX5 Hyrodgen through a pilot fleet in the global market. It’s aiming for series production with a hydrogen drive system in 2028. This production will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio as the automaker will launch a hydrogen version of its existing models.
Koji Sato, President of Toyota (Left), Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG (right) Source – BMW Group
BMW says it views FCEV as complementing the drive technology used by battery electric vehicles (BEV) and next to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and internal combustion engines (ICE).
These two firms signed an agreement in December 2011 to create a mid-long-term cooperative mechanism in environmentally friendly technology. Since then, Toyota and BMW advanced technologies in fuel cells and sports cars.
The latest collaboration will further boost the distribution and refueling network of stable hydrogen supply and cost reduction.
“We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realize a future where hydrogen energy supports society,” said Koji Sato, President of Toyota.
“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” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW.
(source)
