BMW's Hydrogen Program: A Decade of Possibilities and Uncertainty
Key Ideas
- BMW is considering putting a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) into production by the end of the decade, pending a decision on the future of its hydrogen program.
- The brand's iX5 hydrogen development car, based on the X5 SUV, is currently being showcased globally with a potential driving range of over 500km and a refuelling time of less than five minutes.
- While specifics about the debut hydrogen model remain undisclosed, BMW's general manager of hydrogen technology is optimistic about launching a production model by 2030, possibly starting with an SUV.
- BMW is eyeing potential markets for its FCEV, with a focus on regions with existing or planned hydrogen refuelling infrastructure such as the US state of California, the EU, Australia, Japan, Korea, and China.
BMW's hydrogen program is at a crucial juncture as the company considers the production of a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) within the next few years. The brand's iX5 hydrogen development car, currently on a global tour, showcases promising features such as a 500km driving range, quick refuelling time, and a powerful total system output of 295kW. BMW's general manager of hydrogen technology, Dr Jürgen Guldner, is confident about the launch of a production model by 2030, with the possibility of an SUV being the first hydrogen BMW. While details about the debut model are scarce, the technology featured in the iX5 could be extended to other models in the future. BMW is exploring potential markets for its FCEV, looking at regions like California, the EU, Australia, Japan, Korea, China, and other countries with growing interest in hydrogen infrastructure. However, the brand's final decision on committing to hydrogen passenger cars is expected later this year, leaving some uncertainty about the future of BMW's hydrogen program.