BMW and Toyota have announced their collaboration in developing a fuel cell powertrain for hydrogen cars, with the goal of launching a “series production” H2 passenger vehicle before the end of 2028. This partnership aims to leverage the expertise of both automakers in the pursuit of sustainable transportation solutions.
While BMW plans to incorporate the newly developed powertrain into an existing model, indicating the expectation for substantial sales volume, Toyota will also benefit from the technology, integrating it into a future model of their own. This joint effort demonstrates the commitment of both companies to advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology on a wider scale.
The decision to invest in hydrogen cars aligns with BMW CEO Oliver Zipse’s vision for meeting the automaker’s electrification targets. Zipse stated in 2022 that fuel cell vehicles would be necessary to achieve these goals, and that there was potential for incorporating hydrogen cars into BMW’s future electric vehicle platform.
This collaboration is not the first between BMW and Toyota in the hydrogen sector. They previously worked together on the iX5, a fuel cell alternative to the X5 SUV, which was released in limited numbers for testing purposes. The success of their past partnership indicates a strong foundation for further innovation in the hydrogen car market.
Although hydrogen cars have yet to gain significant traction in the passenger vehicle sector, Toyota’s continued production of the Mirai demonstrates ongoing confidence in the technology. However, other automakers have shifted their focus towards commercial trucks and heavy machinery.
As the automotive industry continues to explore alternative fuels and power sources, this collaboration between BMW and Toyota marks a significant step towards bringing hydrogen cars to a wider audience. Their concerted efforts will not only drive innovation in sustainable transportation but also contribute to the realization of a greener future for mobility.
FAQ Section:
1. What is the collaboration between BMW and Toyota?
– BMW and Toyota are collaborating to develop a fuel cell powertrain for hydrogen cars. Their goal is to launch a passenger vehicle with this technology before the end of 2028.
2. How will BMW and Toyota benefit from this collaboration?
– BMW plans to incorporate the newly developed powertrain into an existing model, indicating expectations for substantial sales volume. Toyota will also integrate the technology into a future model of their own.
3. What is the significance of this collaboration?
– This joint effort demonstrates the commitment of both companies to advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology on a wider scale and their efforts in sustainable transportation solutions.
4. Why are hydrogen cars important to BMW’s CEO’s vision?
– BMW CEO Oliver Zipse believes that fuel cell vehicles, including hydrogen cars, are necessary to meet the company’s electrification targets.
5. Have BMW and Toyota collaborated in the hydrogen sector before?
– Yes, they previously worked on the iX5, a fuel cell alternative to the X5 SUV, which was released in limited numbers for testing purposes.
6. Are hydrogen cars gaining traction in the passenger vehicle sector?
– Hydrogen cars have yet to gain significant traction in the passenger vehicle sector. However, Toyota’s continued production of the Mirai indicates confidence in the technology.
Key Terms/Jargon:
– Fuel cell powertrain: A technology that converts hydrogen fuel into electricity to power a vehicle.
– Hydrogen cars: Vehicles that use hydrogen as a fuel source to power an electric motor.
– Electrification targets: The goals set by an automaker to increase the production and sale of electric vehicles.
– Sustainable transportation: Forms of transportation that have a low environmental impact and reduce carbon emissions.
Related Links:
– BMW Group Official Website
– Toyota Global Official Website