Leading Automakers Aim to Overcome Hydrogen Fueling Challenges
Toyota and BMW, two of the world’s leading automakers, are strengthening their partnership. They aim to accelerate the development of next-generation, zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The companies recently signed a new memorandum of understanding to collaborate on standardizing components. They also plan to reduce the cost of fuel cell vehicles by developing a shared powertrain. BMW plans to launch its first hydrogen-powered model in 2028.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Faces Adoption Hurdles
Despite hydrogen being the most abundant element in the universe, automakers have struggled to popularize fuel cell vehicles. The lack of fueling infrastructure, particularly outside of California in the United States, has hindered adoption. In the first half of 2024, only 322 fuel cell vehicles were sold in the US. This marks an 82 percent decline compared to the previous year.
Collaboration Aims to Address Infrastructure and Cost Challenges
By joining forces, Toyota and BMW aim to tackle the challenges facing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles:
- Develop a shared powertrain to reduce costs
- Build hydrogen fueling stations to improve infrastructure
- Explore opportunities in fuel cell-powered commercial vehicles
The partnership, which originally began in 2012, will focus on addressing critical barriers to fuel cell vehicle adoption. They will do this through joint efforts in research, development, and infrastructure.
BMW to Introduce Hydrogen-Powered Variant of Existing Model
As part of the collaboration, BMW announced that its series production model will be a hydrogen-powered variant. It will be based on an existing model in its lineup. The automakers also called for the creation of a supportive framework between government and industry. This is to ensure the long-term viability of hydrogen technology.
Hydrogen Fuel Cells Offer Zero-Emission Solution
Hydrogen fuel cells use compressed hydrogen as fuel, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. Several automakers have recently embraced the technology for its potential in developing heavy-duty vehicles and mobile power generators. It also plays a role in transitioning away from polluting gas-powered vehicles and meeting climate goals.
Toyota Leads in Fuel Cell Passenger Vehicles
Toyota, a pioneer in fuel cell technology, is one of the few companies still selling hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles. The Toyota Mirai, available only in California, comes with a complimentary fueling voucher worth up to $15,000. As of June 2024, Toyota had sold approximately 26,000 Mirais since its launch. BMW has also experimented with fuel cell technology through its iX5 model, although production has been limited.
Challenges Remain in Fueling Infrastructure and Hydrogen Supply
Despite the renewed partnership, BMW and Toyota face significant hurdles in the current state of hydrogen fueling infrastructure. In California, many fueling stations are frequently offline, with Shell closing its stations earlier this year. This is due to fuel shortages. The price of hydrogen also continues to rise, driven by production problems and supply shortages.
As Toyota and BMW move forward with their collaboration, they will host a roundtable. They will address questions about their upgraded partnership and the challenges that lie ahead. Advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology in the automotive industry remains a key focus.
Read more: Toyota and SinoHytec Open Beijing Hydrogen Fuel Cell Plant
