The deployment follows a successful three-year trial in which battery-powered AGVs were retrofitted with IE-Power fuel cells.

The automotive major has said the transition will allow the vehicle assembly plant to cut the number of AGVs by 20%, as the hydrogen units will be available more of the time.

Using hydrogen fuel cells, the AGV units, designed by DS Automotion, are reportedly expected to run longer than battery alternatives and can be refuelled quickly while producing zero emissions inside the factory.

50 AGVs have been delivered to Leipzig and are already in use. The remaining units will enter service within the next six months.

“Fuel cells are well-suited to material handling and intralogistics, where uptime and reliability are critical,” explained Intelligent Energy’s David Fields.

“BMW’s decision to adopt a purpose-built hydrogen fleet powered by our systems at one of the world’s most advanced car plants is a strong endorsement of their efficiency, reliability and performance.”

BMW’s Leipzig plant is one of the world’s most advanced, employing 6,800 people and producing around 1,300 cars a day.

Dr Stefan Fenchel, Project Lead for Sustainability at the factory, said the agreement with Intelligent Energy demonstrates BMW’s investment in hydrogen technology.

Last year, the group announced plans to launch its first series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028 as part of its collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation.