BMW Unveils Third-Generation Hydrogen Fuel-Cell System, Targeting 2028 Production with Enhanced Efficiency and Compact Design
Key Insights
BMW has initiated prototype construction for its third-generation hydrogen fuel-cell system, aiming for series production by 2028.
Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the new system is 25 percent smaller and boasts improved power density, leading to greater range and efficiency.
The advanced fuel-cell unit features the BMW Energy Master, an in-house interface designed for high integration with future vehicle platforms.
BMW continues to champion hydrogen as a viable alternative to battery-electric vehicles, citing rapid refueling and zero tailpipe emissions as key advantages.
Munich, Germany – BMW AG has commenced prototype development for its third-generation hydrogen fuel-cell system, signaling a strategic commitment to hydrogen-powered mobility with series production slated for 2028. This latest iteration, developed in a continuing partnership with Toyota Motor Corporation, represents a significant advancement in compactness and efficiency, designed for seamless integration into the automaker's forthcoming vehicle architectures.
The move underscores BMW's sustained investment in hydrogen drivetrains, building on extensive experimentation, including its iX5 prototype fleet. The new system is notably 25 percent smaller than its predecessors, achieved through a substantial boost in power density. This engineering refinement is projected to deliver enhanced vehicle range, increased power output, and reduced energy consumption, positioning hydrogen as a compelling parallel option alongside battery-electric vehicles.
Central to the third-generation fuel-cell's design is its "high degree of integration" with BMW's future platforms. A key innovation is the BMW Energy Master, an in-house developed interface that intelligently connects the hydrogen unit with the vehicle's battery and overall electronics. This technology is expected to debut with the first Neue Klasse models later this year, laying foundational groundwork for the hydrogen system's eventual deployment. While BMW has not yet specified which model will first feature the new powertrain, its current second-generation setup powers fewer than 100 iX5 prototypes, each delivering 396 horsepower and an estimated range of up to 313 miles on the WLTP cycle.
The long-standing collaboration with Toyota remains a cornerstone of BMW's hydrogen strategy. Initially relying entirely on Toyota's system for early prototypes, BMW has progressively assumed greater control over system design while continuing to leverage Toyota's expertise in fuel-cell stack manufacturing. This enduring partnership facilitates the advancement of hydrogen technology by combining shared knowledge and specialized capabilities.
Despite some automotive manufacturers scaling back hydrogen research, BMW maintains that the technology holds a critical role in the future mobility landscape. The company highlights the convenience of rapid refueling, akin to conventional gasoline vehicles, coupled with the environmental benefit of producing only water vapor emissions. However, the persistent challenge of a limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure remains a significant barrier to widespread consumer adoption, an issue that broader industry and governmental support will need to address for hydrogen to achieve its full market potential.