BMW's Legacy: Pioneering Hydrogen Research Over 45 Years
Key Ideas
- BMW Group's hydrogen research journey began in 1979 with the conversion of a BMW 520 into a test vehicle running on hydrogen, showcasing the potential of hydrogen as a fuel for combustion engines.
- Throughout the years, BMW achieved milestones such as introducing the world's first liquid hydrogen-powered BMW 7 series, developing prototypes running on green hydrogen, and setting records with hydrogen-powered vehicles.
- BMW's commitment to hydrogen technology continued with the unveiling of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen in 2023, showcasing advancements in fuel cell systems with impressive specifications like a range of 504 kilometers and a refueling time of just three to four minutes.
- The BMW iX5 Hydrogen fleet, covering almost one million kilometers in over 20 countries in its first year, highlights BMW's dedication to promoting the role of hydrogen in the energy transition and sustainable mobility.
The BMW Group has been at the forefront of hydrogen research for over four decades, pioneering advancements in hydrogen technology. From converting a BMW 520 into a hydrogen-powered test vehicle in 1979 to unveiling the BMW iX5 Hydrogen in 2023, BMW's journey has been marked by significant milestones. The introduction of the liquid hydrogen-powered BMW 7 series in the 1980s and the development of prototypes using green hydrogen showcased BMW's commitment to sustainable mobility. Over the years, BMW set records with hydrogen-powered vehicles, including the BMW 750hL and the BMW H2R, demonstrating the performance and potential of hydrogen technology. Collaborations with partners like Toyota led to the production of fuel cell systems, culminating in the launch of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen with impressive specifications and a successful global tour. BMW's dedication to hydrogen technology underscores its role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.