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- BMW is set to introduce its first commercially available hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell EV in 2028
- Despite challenges, the company remains optimistic about hydrogen’s potential in the automotive market
- Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai are also actively pursuing developments in hydrogen technology
BMW has been investigating hydrogen drivetrains for an impressive period—dating back to 1979. Over the past 45 years, the automaker has developed concepts based on seven different vehicle models. However, it has never revealed intentions to mass-produce any hydrogen-powered vehicles, even as some rivals have done so. That is, until now.
The German manufacturer is collaborating with Toyota to prepare for its first hydrogen-powered production vehicle available for consumers.
According to BMW, with Toyota’s assistance, the automaker plans to launch its inaugural hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell EV (FCEV) in 2028. Toyota will supply its third-generation hydrogen fuel cell for this vehicle, which is the same technology showcased in Toyota’s hydrogen-powered Hilux concept presented last year.
While BMW has yet to disclose comprehensive details about its upcoming FCEV, it has indicated that the vehicle will be based on an existing model enhanced with a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain.
It is worth noting that BMW’s latest concept, referenced above, was called the iX5 Hydrogen. This model integrates a hydrogen fuel cell stack with BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive motor, which is also utilized in models like the i4, iX, iX3, and i7.
Interestingly, the fuel cell used in the iX5 Hydrogen was also sourced from Toyota. In fact, it is the same fuel cell stack found in the second-generation Toyota Mirai. Previously, BMW had incorporated Toyota’s first-generation stack into a 5-Series Gran Turismo.
BMW has historically maintained a positive outlook on hydrogen technology. Similar to hybrid vehicles, it views Fuel Cell EVs as an additional avenue to promote sustainability in its lineup. Consequently, the automaker has been rigorously testing this technology through the iX5 Hydrogen to prepare for the introduction of its production-ready FCEV.
The company has even developed its Neue Klasses architecture, meant to transition from the current Cluster Architecture, with a forward-thinking design. Vehicles designed on BMW’s upcoming platform can accommodate hydrogen tanks in the same area generally reserved for batteries. This adaptability allows for smaller tanks to be arranged in various configurations, catering to vehicles of different sizes and designs.
Moreover, BMW’s Munich facility is reportedly equipped to integrate hydrogen production, signaling the brand’s long-term commitment to hydrogen technology.
However, hydrogen’s complicated presence in the U.S. market cannot be overlooked.
California’s Hydrogen Highway has changed significantly in recent months. Many station owners are withdrawing as electric vehicles gain traction, and owners of popular models like the Toyota Mirai are expressing disappointment.
For hydrogen car owners in California, the experience can be quite challenging, particularly for those traveling long distances. Recent accounts highlight a deteriorating outlook for hydrogen vehicles in the U.S., revealing issues not only with the vehicles themselves but also with the fragile supporting infrastructure. It raises eyebrows as manufacturers continue to invest in hydrogen vehicles while remaining silent about the need for improved infrastructure.
“The user experience for a hydrogen car owner is, to say the least, quite poor,” commented California State Senator Josh Newman, a Toyota Mirai driver, in a Reddit post. He further explained, “It’s not the cars that are the problem; they are fantastic. The issue lies with the refueling process. Ultimately, the state of hydrogen refueling in California is, in a word, terrible.”
Despite current challenges, other manufacturers continue to invest in hydrogen technology. Honda recently made headlines with its 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV. Meanwhile, Hyundai remains optimistic about hydrogen, not only advancing technology for its vehicles but also advocating for a “hydrogen society” where fuel cell stacks can power trains and trucks or serve as mobile generators.
Toyota stands out as an ideal partner for BMW in this venture, given its extensive experience in refining hydrogen fuel cells over three decades and its success with two generations of the Mirai. Toyota anticipates that Europe will thrive as a hub for hydrogen, demonstrating mutual confidence from both companies despite the lack of a robust refueling network.
One aspect that remains unclear is whether BMW will consider launching the model in the U.S. Given the more developed hydrogen refueling networks in Europe and Japan, it is plausible that the automaker will aim its efforts toward those markets.
The question of success will remain unanswered until the model’s launch in 2028.
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