BMW's Modular Hydrogen Storage System for Affordable Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles
Key Ideas
  • BMW is developing a modular hydrogen storage system for its Neue Klasse architecture to reduce the cost of fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and allow manufacturing flexibility.
  • The Neue Klasse platform will accommodate both battery-electric vehicles and FCEVs, with the first production FCEV possibly available before the end of the decade.
  • The hydrogen program by BMW aims to integrate hydrogen tanks into the modular undertray of the Neue Klasse design, enabling shared electrical systems for EVs and FCEVs.
  • While the first BMW FCEV may not be based on Neue Klasse, the company plans to introduce several Neue Klasse electric models by 2030, signaling a shift in BMW's EV production towards the new platform.
BMW is working on a new modular hydrogen storage system as part of its strategy to make fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) more affordable. The innovative system will be integrated into the upcoming Neue Klasse architecture, which is designed exclusively for electric vehicles. This modular platform is set to debut in late 2025 with the second-generation BMW iX3, known as the Neue Klasse X. The core of the Neue Klasse design is a flexible undertray that can house either advanced battery cells or cylindrical hydrogen tanks, allowing for the production of both battery-electric cars and FCEVs on the same assembly line. BMW is nearing a decision on green-lighting its first production FCEV for public release, with plans to have it available for sale before the end of the decade. Dr. Juergen Guldner, the general manager of BMW's hydrogen program, highlighted the importance of the modular design in accommodating different powertrains. He mentioned that BMW is focused on integrating hydrogen tanks into the platform, requiring collaboration with tank suppliers to make the system viable. While the first BMW FCEV may not be based on the Neue Klasse platform, BMW intends to transition its EV lineup to Neue Klasse starting from 2025. This shift will include the introduction of several Neue Klasse electric models by 2030, such as the i3 sedan, iX4 coupe-SUV, and the next-gen iX1 small SUV. In addition to the modular system, BMW is working on cost-saving measures across the FCEV components to bring the prices closer to traditional electric vehicles. The company's hydrogen powertrain expansion is part of its long-term strategy to offer a diverse range of sustainable mobility solutions.
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