BMW to Launch First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle by 2028: A New Era in Transport?

In a significant move towards sustainable transportation, BMW has announced plans to launch its first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028. This decision comes at a time when the automotive industry is grappling with the practicality and scalability of hydrogen as a viable alternative to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). According to Jürgen Guldner, General Project Manager for Hydrogen Technology at BMW, the iX5 Hydrogen has been undergoing trials since 2023 and demonstrates the potential benefits of hydrogen technology in the automotive sector. This announcement was made during a recent summit focused on promoting FCEVs and hydrogen technology.

The market for hydrogen vehicles has struggled to gain traction compared to its battery-powered counterparts. In 2024, global registrations of FCEVs reached 12,866, a stark contrast to the 10.8 million BEVs registered during the same period. Despite the slow adoption, BMW's commitment to hydrogen represents a broader industry trend exploring various technologies to achieve carbon neutrality in transport. The company’s cautious approach, characterized by pilot runs and extensive research, aims to address consumer concerns regarding the viability of FCEVs in a market dominated by BEVs.

Historically, hydrogen has been touted as a clean energy source with the potential to complement electric vehicles; however, infrastructure challenges have hindered its widespread adoption. In the UK, the number of hydrogen fuel stations has drastically decreased, from 15 in 2019 to only four as of 2025, raising concerns about the viability of hydrogen fueling as a competitive alternative. Conversely, there are over 39,000 public charging locations for BEVs. Guldner highlighted that the ability to refuel hydrogen vehicles in a matter of minutes, compared to the longer charging times for BEVs, could appeal to consumers who prioritize convenience and efficiency.

Experts like David Wong, Head of Technology at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, argue that FCEVs should be developed alongside BEVs to create a more resilient transportation infrastructure. Wong’s modeling suggests that investing in both hydrogen and battery charging infrastructures could ultimately lower costs significantly. The projected cost savings, estimated at $40 billion, could incentivize governments and private sectors to invest more in hydrogen technology.

The resource intensity of battery production presents another argument for the dual approach. Guldner pointed out that the extraction of materials necessary for battery production may lead to scarcity issues, making hydrogen a potentially sustainable alternative. “Having a second technology, not putting all eggs in one basket, provides resilience,” Guldner noted, emphasizing the importance of offering consumers choices that meet diverse needs.

Nevertheless, the economic viability of hydrogen infrastructure remains a crucial challenge. Building hydrogen stations, which can cost between $1.5 and $4 million each, requires careful planning and investment. Chris Jackson, CEO of Protium Green Solutions, emphasized that the initial focus should be on the long-haul commercial sector to create a foundation for consumer adoption. Projects like HyHAUL aim to develop refueling stations that cater to commercial vehicles first, thereby establishing a network that could eventually support consumer vehicles.

The potential for FCEVs to reach the consumer market hinges on the establishment of a robust refueling infrastructure. BMW's plans to launch its hydrogen vehicle in 2028 will depend heavily on advances in hydrogen technology and the public's willingness to adopt this alternative energy source. While the company has not yet specified which markets will receive the vehicle, Guldner expressed hope that infrastructure improvements will make hydrogen a viable choice for consumers within the next few years.

In conclusion, as the automotive landscape evolves, the future of hydrogen as a transport fuel remains uncertain. The combination of technological innovation, infrastructure development, and consumer acceptance will ultimately determine whether hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can carve out a significant position alongside battery electric vehicles in the quest for sustainable transportation solutions. As BMW prepares for its entry into the hydrogen market, the industry watches closely to see if FCEVs can finally overcome the longstanding hurdles that have delayed their adoption.