Automotive giants BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation have decided to pool their innovative strengths and technological capabilities to bring a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology to passenger car market.
Both companies share the aspiration of advancing the hydrogen economy, and have extended their collaboration to push this locally zero-emission technology to the next level. The collaboration aims to bring synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications in terms of core fuel cell technology - the third-generation fuel cells.
"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," said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. "And it will herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles."
It is to be noted that BMW is planning to launch its first-ever series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028, thereby offering customers an additional all-electric powertrain option with zero local emissions.
The German automaker's domain expertise in electric drive technologies is once again demonstrated by its relentless efforts to advance hydrogen fuel cell technology and its embracing of a 'technology-openness' approach in order to provide customers with a range of mobility solutions, claims BMW.
"We are pleased that 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", Koji Sato, President and Member of the Board of Management (Representative Director) Toyota Motor Corporation.
"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", he added.
The companies claim that the result of the latest collaboration will be utilized in individual models of both BMW and Toyota brands, and will expand the range of FCEV options to bring the vision of hydrogen mobility one step closer to reality.
Customers can expect the BMW and Toyota FCEV models to maintain their distinct brand identities and characteristics, providing them with individual FCEV options to choose from, the partners add.
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