German automaker BMW said Thursday it will boost joint development of next-generation hydrogen fuel cells with Japan’s Toyota Motor. It aims to start its first-ever mass production of a fuel-cell electric vehicle in 2028.
The collaboration will extend to improving infrastructure such as setting up hydrogen stations. Fuel-cell electric vehicles do not emit carbon dioxide because the power is generated by hydrogen.
The advantages of fuel-cell vehicles over other EVs include a range on a par with gasoline engines, and the short time to refuel compared to recharging. But the challenge for automakers in building a market is that fuel-cell vehicles are expensive.
BMW and Toyota aim to lower production costs through co-development, and hope to spur demand by improving refueling infrastructure.
BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse said, “We are committed to making hydrogen-powered cars a practical choice for a wider group of customers.”
Toyota President Sato Koji said that the two automakers would deepen their cooperation in realizing a hydrogen society.