BMW's Hydrogen Future: Plans for Production FCEV by 2030
Key Ideas
  • BMW's hydrogen program manager aims to launch a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) by the end of the decade.
  • The company's iX5 hydrogen development car showcases the technology, with plans for a production model by 2030.
  • BMW is considering various markets for the FCEV rollout, with a focus on regions like California, Europe, Japan, Korea, China, and Australia.
  • The hydrogen-powered FCEV boasts quick refueling, a driving range of over 500km, and potential to be extended to other models in the future.
BMW is actively pursuing the production of a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) by the end of the decade. The company's hydrogen program manager, Dr Jürgen Guldner, is optimistic about the project, stating that all the necessary components are in place for a potential launch by 2030. The current showcase vehicle, the iX5 hydrogen development car, is based on the X5 SUV and features a hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain with impressive specifications such as two CFRP hydrogen tanks, a fuel cell producing 125kW, and a total system output of 295kW. Refueling the FCEV takes less than five minutes, with a driving range exceeding 500km. While BMW has not disclosed the exact model that will receive the hydrogen powertrain, indications suggest that it might be an SUV. Dr Guldner mentioned the possibility of extending the technology to other models as well. The company's plans for market expansion include regions with existing hydrogen infrastructure like California, Europe, Japan, Korea, China, and potentially Australia. Dr Guldner highlighted Australia's suitability for hydrogen adoption due to its renewable energy sources and long travel distances. Despite the long-term vision for hydrogen integration across BMW's model range in the 2030s, the immediate focus remains on launching the FCEV within the current decade. The company's emphasis on sustainability and technological innovation drives its commitment to exploring hydrogen as a viable alternative in the automotive industry.
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