The BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, unveiled in February, has successfully completed its rigorous hot-weather testing in the United Arab Emirates. The trial saw the vehicles enduring soaring temperatures of up to 45°C and challenging conditions like sand, dust, and wide-ranging humidity levels.
Why It Matters
This desert test underscores the robustness and efficiency of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s fuel cell system. This vehicle’s capability to withstand extreme conditions reaffirms BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation and showcasing the durability of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Key Points
- The car’s fuel cell drive system remained resilient and effective, even in harsh conditions.
- The entire setup, including the fuel cell system, hydrogen tanks, electric motor, power battery, and central control unit, exhibited exemplary performance.
- The Munich-based development team closely monitored the vehicle’s electronic systems in these extreme conditions and also evaluated its cooling power.
- The BMW iX5 Hydrogen maintains the driving dynamics BMW is celebrated for, even under these rigorous conditions.
Bottom Line
As the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet continues to be tested across various international regions, including Europe, Japan, Korea, China, the USA, and the Middle East, its main objective remains clear: to emphasize the practicality of hydrogen-powered vehicles and pave the way for potential mass production. The vehicle boasts an impressive drive unit output of 295 kW / 401 hp and a fuel cell system output of 125 kW/170 hp. Using carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) 700-bar tanks, the vehicle can store about six kilograms of hydrogen, providing a range of 504 km (313 miles). As the automotive world evolves, the BMW Group remains committed to adopting a “technology-open” stance, ensuring they can meet diverse global demands and continue serving their customers effectively.
