BUSINESS: Leading global carmakers BMW and Toyota have tied up to develop hydrogen-powered cars, a big leap forward from traditional fossil fuels. In a major move to shape the future of sustainable transportation, the two auto majors announced that the first hydrogen-powered vehicle will be released in 2028. In a joint announcement, the companies said the new hydrogen cars will use a powertrain consisting of an engine and transmission they developed together. The partnership to develop hydrogen-powered electric vehicles, or fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), aims to turn the relatively nascent technology into a mainstream market offering.
Hydrogen-powered cars differ from traditional electric vehicles (EVs) because they use electricity generated through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen within a fuel cell, rather than relying on electricity stored in a battery. “It’s basically electric driving,” explained Michael Rath, BMW’s vice president of hydrogen vehicles, emphasizing that this technology offers an alternative for drivers who may not have access to charging stations or who need rapid refueling options. Hydrogen cars, like traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, can be refueled quickly at specialized stations, offering convenience for long-distance drivers and those concerned about towing capabilities or extreme temperatures affecting battery performance.
BMW has said it does not see hydrogen vehicles as a direct competitor to battery-powered EVs, but sees them as complementary options. The company believes that offering a variety of clean energy vehicles will better meet the diverse needs of consumers. However, one of the biggest challenges is infrastructure. Hydrogen refueling stations are far fewer than electric charging stations, but both BMW and Toyota have said they are committed to helping expand the network and investing in the development of the hydrogen economy. Safety concerns associated with hydrogen, which is highly flammable, will also be appropriately addressed through extensive crash testing.
