Why BMW is Betting on Hydrogen Fuel Cell Powertrains
BMW is shifting its focus to hydrogen fuel cells for its next-generation vehicles, with plans to launch a production hydrogen fuel cell car in 2028. This move comes after years of exploring hydrogen as a fuel for internal combustion engines. Now, in partnership with Toyota, BMW aims to develop a cutting-edge fuel cell powertrain. Notice how Toyota and BMW have been in bed together for a few years now?
What’s in the Works? BMW has been testing hydrogen-powered iX5 crossovers across 20 countries and is already producing them in limited quantities. Though they haven’t confirmed which model will receive the full production version, the new hydrogen drivetrain may be integrated into vehicles built on the Neue Klasse electric-only platform.
Why Fuel Cells? According to Michael Rath, VP of hydrogen vehicles at BMW, while battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are more energy-efficient on a "well-to-wheel" basis, hydrogen fuel cells can offer comparable overall environmental benefits when considering the entire vehicle lifecycle, from raw materials to recycling.
The Bigger Picture BMW’s bet on hydrogen highlights a broader effort to diversify clean energy sources for transportation. While BEVs dominate the market, fuel cells may serve as a complementary option, especially in areas where charging infrastructure is limited.
This will bring some interesting complications on fueling, service and training in the future.
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