Toyota and BMW want to create a "hydrogen society"

Toyota and BMW want to work more closely together on hydrogen technology. To this end, they are working together on the development of a third-generation fuel cell system that is to be used in models from both manufacturers. Toyota already has two fuel cell models on the market, the Mirai and the Hilux FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle). BMW is planning to launch its first series-produced vehicle with a fuel cell drive in 2028.

Toyota and BMW share a common vision of "creating a hydrogen society", they say. Therefore, both companies are supporting a sustainable infrastructure by creating demand for hydrogen and working closely with hydrogen-producing companies, distributors and filling stations to ensure a stable hydrogen supply. The cooperation in development and procurement is also expected to reduce costs through synergy effects, which in turn will increase demand for commercial vehicles and passenger cars.

The two companies had already signed an agreement on medium-term cooperation in the field of new environmental technologies in December 2011 and have been driving this forward together for more than ten years, including in the development of fuel cells and sports cars.

Both companies share "a belief in technology openness and a multi-path technology approach to achieving carbon neutrality," says Koji Sato, President of Toyota. "We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners from various industries to create a future where hydrogen energy sustains society." For BMW CEO Oliver Zipse, the first BMW production vehicle with a fuel cell is "a milestone in automotive history". It will "herald an era in which there will be great demand for fuel cell electric vehicles." (aum)