This partnership isn't new. Toyota and BMW have been working together on green tech for over a decade. They first shook hands back in December 2011, agreeing to join forces on environmental technologies, fuel cells, and sports cars. Now, they're doubling down on their shared dream of a hydrogen-powered future.
The companies plan to create a new fuel cell system that will go into both Toyota and BMW cars. BMW is taking the lead, aiming to roll out its first mass-produced hydrogen car by 2028. It's a big step for BMW, marking the first time a global luxury car maker will offer a hydrogen-powered vehicle straight off the production line.
"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. And it will herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles," said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG.
The team-up isn't just about making cool new cars. Toyota and BMW want to make hydrogen cars cheaper and more popular. They're planning to work together on development and buying parts, which should help bring down costs. They also want to get more people and businesses using hydrogen vehicles.
But it's not just about the cars themselves. Toyota and BMW are thinking big picture. They want to make sure there's enough hydrogen to go around and that it's easy for people to fill up their cars. They're planning to work with companies that produce hydrogen and set up refueling stations.
Koji Sato, the president of Toyota, seems pretty excited about all this. He said:
"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."
For Toyota, hydrogen is a big deal. They see it as a key part of their plan to cut down on carbon emissions. But they're not putting all their eggs in one basket. Toyota is still working on other types of green cars too, like regular electric cars and hybrids.
Source: Toyota