Camilla Jessen
While others hesitate, BMW is betting on hydrogen technology.
While many car manufacturers are rethinking their strategies, BMW is clearly betting on hydrogen technology.
The company has now confirmed that it plans to release a new hydrogen-powered SUV based on the X5 model by 2028, Driving Hydrogen reports.
Confirmed Plans for Hydrogen Car
Dr. Jürgen Guldner, program manager for hydrogen technology at BMW, confirmed that the German carmaker is preparing to bring its first mass-produced hydrogen car to market in 2028.
Until now, BMW has only showcased prototypes such as the iX5 Hydrogen model from 2024.
The announcement comes as sales of pure battery electric vehicles are showing signs of slowing, leading some carmakers to return focus to gasoline and hybrid engines. BMW, however, continues to see great potential in hydrogen fuel.
BMW is developing the new hydrogen vehicle together with Toyota, which is a global leader in fuel cell technology.
The iX5 Hydrogen prototype already uses fuel cells from Toyota, and this partnership will expand as they prepare for the 2028 launch.
“Starting with the 2028 model, we are expanding our collaboration,” Guldner said, as cited by Boosted. “We are working closely with Toyota on the entire design of the fuel cell system to exploit economies of scale.”
Why Hydrogen?
BMW is not alone in its belief in hydrogen technology. Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota are also actively researching hydrogen-powered vehicles.
One of the main advantages of hydrogen cars is their fast refueling time, similar to that of gasoline cars. In addition, they produce only water vapor as emissions while driving.
According to Guldner, hydrogen technology offers “the best of both worlds.” He noted that hydrogen fueling infrastructure is slowly expanding in key markets such as Europe, Japan, and Korea.
The final production model will likely be based on the next generation of BMW’s popular X5 SUV.
Despite the advantages, hydrogen cars still face challenges.
In Denmark, for example, all existing hydrogen fueling stations have closed. However, a new EU regulation may help by requiring member states to build or reopen hydrogen stations along public roads.