BMW introduces its pilot fleet of the iX5 Hydrogen vehicle in the UK, marking a significant phase after four years of development. Fewer than 100 vehicles will initially be part of this fleet, serving as a demonstration and trial on an international level.
Why It Matters
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, commented on the potential of hydrogen as a versatile energy solution in the global transition towards renewable sources. Zipse emphasized, “Hydrogen is the missing piece in the jigsaw when it comes to emission-free mobility. No single technology alone will be sufficient to achieve global climate-neutral mobility.”
Key Points
- Prototype and Development: The BMW iX5 Hydrogen, based on the BMW X5, was initially presented at the IAA show in 2019. It was available for visitor experiences at IAA Mobility 2021.
- Fuel Cell System: This system demonstrates BMW Group’s advancement in electric drive technologies. BMW continues to explore hydrogen fuel cell tech as an alternative for local emission-free travel.
- Technology and Partnership: The BMW Group manufactures fuel cell systems for the pilot fleet in Munich and obtains individual fuel cells from a long-standing partnership with Toyota Motor Corporation.
- Production: The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is constructed at the BMW Group’s pilot plant in Munich, with a workforce of around 900 specialists ensuring the product’s readiness for series production.
- Refueling and Range: The vehicle features two hydrogen storage tanks, enabling a range of 504 km (313 miles). Refueling takes just 3-4 minutes.
- Technical Specifications: The iX5 Hydrogen boasts a drive system output of 295 kW/401 hp, can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in under 6 seconds, and has a top speed exceeding 180 km/h (112 mph).
- Commitment to Decarbonisation: BMW aims to slash CO2 emissions by at least 40% per vehicle by 2030, compared to 2019 levels. They also plan for over 50% of their overall sales to be from electric vehicles by 2030.
Bottom Line
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s introduction signifies a significant step towards embracing hydrogen as an integral part of sustainable and emission-free mobility. With backing from global energy transition activities, and combined with the right infrastructure, hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to reshape the future of transportation.
