BMW in Regensburg: Hydrogen drive is revolutionizing logistics!

BMW in Regensburg: Hydrogen drive is revolutionizing logistics!

Today, December 1, 2025, an exciting chapter began for the BMW Group at the Regensburg vehicle factory. With the symbolic laying of the first stainless steel pipeline, a fundamental step towards hydrogen infrastructure is taken. From 2026, hydrogen-powered tugger trains and forklifts will shake up the factory's logistics fleet and offer innovative transport solutions. At a time when sustainable practices are very popular, the plant is ideally positioned.

Behind this change is not only the drive for more environmentally friendly solutions, but also the belief in hydrogen as a renewable energy source. The economic officer for the city of Regensburg emphasizes the importance of this technology. The new hydrogen supply will relieve the burden on the existing fleet, which currently consists of battery-powered vehicles. The fleet currently requires two battery changes per shift, which takes approximately 15 minutes per change. Switching to hydrogen means that this time-consuming and space-consuming procedure is eliminated and the 800 square meter factory space can be used more efficiently.

A comprehensive hydrogen network

The plans for the new hydrogen network include the establishment of a 6-kilometer-long pipeline network as well as six decentralized indoor filling stations, which are to be put into operation from the second half of 2026. The hydrogen-powered vehicles are delivered via special trailers that serve as both a means of transportation and temporary storage. Ultimately, it is expected that annual hydrogen consumption will be around 175 tonnes after the full transition in 2030.

BMW aims to completely switch from electric to hydrogen power by 2031. Trial operation is scheduled to start in the first half of 2026, followed by series operation with around 85 of 230 vehicles in the second half of the year. Production at the Regensburg plant will not only include the popular BMW X1 and X2 models, but also the next model generation of the so-called “New Class”. This is expected in the second half of the decade and marks a further step towards intelligently networked and digitalized production.

Sustainability in logistics

The logistics industry is always looking for sustainable and efficient solutions, and hydrogen offers a promising alternative. Hydrogen technology is seen as the key to increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. This is supported by high energy density, fast refueling and environmental friendliness as water is created as a by-product during use. However, the integration of hydrogen technologies also requires the development of suitable infrastructure, such as hydrogen filling stations.

BMW is taking the first step here and showing that innovative approaches are feasible. The focus is on combining environmental protection and economic efficiency. The company has a good knack for trends and leads by example. The time for hydrogen is now!

The plant in Regensburg, which was named “Factory of the Year” in 2024, shows what future-oriented thinking can look like in automobile production. The symbiosis of new technology and efficient production ensures that BMW remains in the fast lane.

For more information about this exciting shift in BMW logistics, you can visit BMW Group. Electrive has also provided comprehensive information on this. Interesting insights into hydrogen technologies in the logistics industry can also be found here.