bmw unveils 2028 hydrogen fcev to cut charging times and boost range

BMW Group has announced plans to launch its first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in series production by 2028, marking a significant shift in its approach to alternative mobility solutions. The move positions the automaker among a small but growing cohort of manufacturers, including Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda, that view hydrogen as a complementary technology to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). BMW’s strategy hinges on leveraging its existing EV infrastructure and components, such as electric motors, while addressing consumer pain points like charging time and range limitations [1].

The iX5 Hydrogen, a pilot model based on the X5 SUV tested since 2023, has demonstrated the viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles, with refueling capabilities of 3–4 minutes and zero tailpipe emissions. BMW General Project Manager Jürgen Guldner emphasized that FCEVs align with the company’s broader electrification goals but offer unique advantages for users who prioritize convenience, towing capacity, or operate in cold climates [1]. However, the company has not yet confirmed whether the iX5 Hydrogen will be the production model or if another design will be prioritized in 2028.

The decision to pursue hydrogen comes amid a stark contrast in market adoption between FCEVs and BEVs. In 2024, FCEV registrations totaled 12,866 units globally, compared to 10.8 million BEVs. Infrastructure gaps remain a critical barrier: while BEV charging networks have expanded rapidly, hydrogen refueling stations are sparse and declining in some regions. The UK, for example, saw hydrogen stations drop from 15 in 2019 to four by 2025, compared to 39,733 BEV charging locations [1]. David Wong of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders argued that a hybrid approach combining BEV and hydrogen infrastructure could reduce overall costs, citing Germany as a case study where a 90% BEV and 10% FCEV mix could save $40 billion in infrastructure investment compared to a 100% BEV network [1].

BMW’s investment in hydrogen reflects broader industry concerns over raw material constraints in BEV production and a desire to diversify supply chains. Guldner highlighted the scalability of hydrogen, particularly for commercial vehicles and long-haul transport, where rapid refueling is critical. Protium Green Solutions, a partner in the UK’s HyHAUL project, noted that hydrogen infrastructure economics favor large-scale applications, such as truck fleets, which require fewer stations than passenger vehicles to justify costs. The project aims to deploy 30 hydrogen trucks and three refueling hubs along the M4 corridor by 2026, with plans to expand across the UK [1].

Despite these efforts, consumer adoption of FCEVs remains uncertain. Toyota’s Mirai and Hyundai’s Nexo have struggled to gain traction, with Hype, a Paris-based taxi operator, recently pivoting from hydrogen to BEVs. Experts warn that without a robust network of refueling stations—estimated at 1,300 to cover the UK—FCEVs may remain a niche option. BMW has not yet identified specific markets for its 2028 launch, citing infrastructure readiness as a key factor. Guldner expressed optimism that infrastructure development will accelerate in the coming years, though the company has not yet disclosed pricing or cost-reduction targets [1].

The outcome of BMW’s hydrogen strategy will depend on resolving the "chicken-and-egg" dilemma between vehicle adoption and infrastructure expansion. While surveys indicate consumer interest in hydrogen, translating this into sales will require coordinated efforts from automakers, policymakers, and private investors. As the 2028 deadline approaches, the industry will watch closely to determine whether hydrogen can overcome its infrastructural and economic challenges to become a viable long-term solution for decarbonizing transport.

Source: [1] [BMW backs hydrogen for transport with first series production car in 2028 — Is H2 the future after all?][https://fortune.com/2025/07/27/bmw-ix5-hydrogen-car-production-2028-battery-electric-vehicle/]