A pilot fleet of BMW iX5 Hydrogen NEXTs embarked on a worldwide tour after a grand unveiling at the Frankfort Motor Show. The development vehicle’s showcase of hydrogen propulsion fuel cell technology is a glimpse of exciting times ahead for the German auto powerhouse’s electric portfolio.
BMW hydrogen development model makes a move in electromobility
There are three factors that make the pioneering iX5 Hydrogen NEXT attractive in the world of EVs: zero emissions, a long range, and short refueling times.
The BMW Motor Group is making plans based on predictions that future mobility choices can’t be limited to just a few fuel or power options, as global consumer needs are so varied. Hydrogen is attractive as an addition to battery-electric engines as well as a stand-alone fuel. BMW has plug-in hybrid options in development, too, so it seems Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is aiming to diversify its offerings through a clever strategy of not putting all its eggs in one basket in the hunt for clean, green energy.
The BMW Group has plans to release the next level of electric hydrogen systems based on the current, small model BMW X5, and the NEXT is a hint of what’s to come. It’s expected that fuel cell cars will be rolling off the showroom floors in 2025, but there are some factors BMW will have to manage before finalizing its market moves and fleet.
Integration of performance, design, and hydrogen innovation
The BMW NEXT is proof that hydrogen tech can be installed in a racy model like the X5 with nothing compromised on either end, and the body is still easily identifiable as an i incarnation. BMW’s I division is known for pushing the boundaries of the invention while maintaining practicality, and it appears that they’ve nailed the brief again.
These are two particular features of interest in the performance of the iX5 NEXT:
- Capacity and range: The capacity of the two hydrogen tanks is 6kg combined. This translates to an electric range of around 300 miles with tanks at maximum capacity.
- Driving dynamics: Drivers are promised 401 hp and an acceleration rate of 0-60 mph in less than six seconds, making it perfectly competitive in its class and in the BMW fleet.
The benefits of hydrogen technology
There are several advantages of hydrogen-powered vehicle systems, and BMW will be aiming to leverage them all:
- Zero emissions: This is a major drawcard when considering the green direction the world is moving in.
- Quick refueling time: Tanks can be filled in three to four minutes, which is similar to diesel or gas models.
- Consistent range unaffected by weather: The range of FCEVs is similar to gas or diesel models and is not affected by climatic conditions.
BMW and Toyota form partnership to develop hydrogen fuel cell tech
BMW has already proven that its hydrogen technology is well suited to day-to-day use in passenger vehicles, and this is being strengthened by a partnership with Japanese powerhouse Toyota to work on a hydrogen fuel cell drive system. The engine testing phase with a fleet of prototype BMW 5 Series GT cars fitted with a Toyota fuel cell stack and a co-developed drive system.
After entering into a product development agreement, Toyota and BMW have continued to focus on fuel cell drive systems, but are also working on scalable, modular components for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
BMW and Toyota were also founding members of an 11-company Hydrogen Council, which brought together leading global transport, industrial, and energy companies with the goal of being a force of ambition and vision behind a hydrogen energy revolution. The Council now has 60 members, and its impact is growing.
BMW is admirably tackling the international sustainability objectives of clean fuel systems, and the iX5 Hydrogen NEXT is a sign that the German outfit is sticking to its strategy of diversifying its fleet with varied fuel type options.