Hydrogen Power Is BMW’s Next Bold Move

While most automakers focus on electrification, BMW is betting big on hydrogen as the next alternative fuel. After years of experimenting with hydrogen technology, BMW is preparing to launch its first hydrogen-powered production car with Toyota. This partnership will see Toyota provide its third-generation hydrogen fuel cell, paving the way for BMW’s hydrogen future in 2028.

BMW has been testing hydrogen-powered prototypes for decades, but this will be its first commercially available hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV). BMW’s upcoming hydrogen model will be based on an existing vehicle, incorporating a hydrogen drivetrain option. The German automaker has already fitted hydrogen fuel cells into several concepts, including the iX5 Hydrogen, which uses the same technology Toyota developed for its Mirai models.

Hydrogen adoption, however, comes with its challenges. The refuelling infrastructure, especially in regions like California, is limited and unreliable, making it difficult for consumers to embrace the technology. Despite these obstacles, BMW remains committed to hydrogen as a sustainable alternative, designing its future vehicle platforms to adapt to battery and hydrogen power.

Whether BMW’s hydrogen vision will catch on remains uncertain. However, the company’s confidence in the technology suggests they see potential in a future where hydrogen plays a larger role in the automotive world. With Toyota’s backing, BMW’s gamble could shape the next era of clean energy transportation.