BMW's Hydrogen Future: From Past Experiments to a Potential Production Vehicle
Key Ideas
  • BMW has a history of experimenting with hydrogen cars dating back to the late 1970s, with various models like the 520h, 750hL, and the H2R.
  • The company is considering building a production hydrogen car, with a decision expected before the end of the year and sales to customers by the end of the decade.
  • The potential hydrogen vehicle may be related to the X5 model, with hints pointing towards the new 'G65' generation. If approved, it would kick-start a series of hydrogen models in the next decade.
  • BMW is currently testing fewer than 100 iX5 prototypes globally to gather feedback and improve the technology, aiming for a successful series production launch as part of a long-term hydrogen strategy.
BMW has a rich history of exploring hydrogen technology in cars, beginning with the 5 Series E12-based 520h in the late 1970s. Over the years, the company has introduced various experimental models, including the 750hL during the E38 era and the well-known 760Li E65. Noteworthy examples also include the record-breaking H2R, the lesser-known Hydrogen i8, and the recent iX5. Although these models were not made available to the public, BMW is now contemplating a shift in strategy with its next hydrogen vehicle. The General Project Manager of Hydrogen Technology at BMW, Juergen Guldner, revealed that a decision on building a production hydrogen car is imminent, with plans to offer it to customers before the end of the decade. While the specific model for this venture is yet to be confirmed, indications suggest it may be related to the X5, possibly the new 'G65' generation. If approved, this model would mark the beginning of a wave of hydrogen vehicles from BMW, with a 'range-wide rollout' planned for the coming years. The company is currently conducting tests on a small fleet of iX5 prototypes worldwide to refine the technology and enhance its viability for series production. BMW views its hydrogen initiative as a long-term project and aims to pinpoint the optimal timing for launching a production vehicle to ensure its success in the market.
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