Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and the BMW Group (BMW) have signed an agreement to strengthen their collaboration in the hydrogen sector, in the quest to achieve carbon neutrality. Both companies collaborate in the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems and work on a joint venture to improve the development of infrastructures.
In December 2011, the two companies signed an agreement to establish a medium-term cooperative relationship in environmental technology, and for more than a decade have jointly promoted the development of environmental technologies including fuel cell systems and sports cars. With a shared vision of “creating a hydrogen-based society,” the two companies will continue to accelerate technological innovation in fuel cell systems.
The two companies will offer a wider range of options to customers by installing more fuel cell systems in their vehicles.
Toyota and BMW are collaborating on the development of a third-generation fuel cell system, which will be installed in models from both manufacturers to offer customers a wider range of FCEVs. As a first step, BMW plans to launch its first mass-produced FCEV in 2028.
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The two companies will strive to create synergies in development and procurement, reduce costs by pooling power units, and expand demand for commercial and passenger vehicles. By making FCEVs a more affordable option, the alliance will contribute to the realization of a hydrogen-based society.
Establishment of sustainable hydrogen supply networks
Both companies believe that working with like-minded partners is essential to realising these goals. Given the need to create hydrogen demand pockets at this stage, Toyota and BMW will foster a sustainable hydrogen supply and work closely with hydrogen production companies, as well as distribution and refuelling services to ensure a stable supply.
Koji Sato, President of Toyota, said: “We are delighted that the collaboration between BMW and Toyota has entered a new phase. In our long history of collaboration, we have seen that BMW and Toyota share the same passion for automobiles and a ‘technology openness’ and ‘multi-path approach’ towards carbon neutrality.”
With a shared vision of “creating a hydrogen-based society,” the two companies will continue to accelerate technological innovation in fuel cell systems.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, commented: “This is a milestone in automotive history: the first series-produced fuel cell vehicle offered by a global premium manufacturer. Powered by hydrogen and driven by our spirit of cooperation, it will demonstrate how technological progress shapes the mobility of the future. It will also open up a new era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.”
Toyota has positioned hydrogen as a key energy source in its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, and has promoted projects in collaboration with many partners in the areas of production, transportation, storage and use of this energy source.
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