In an era where the automotive industry is racing towards sustainability, BMW has taken a decisive step by intensifying its focus on hydrogen fuel cell powertrains. As the global push for clean energy continues, BMW’s strategy reflects a commitment to diversify its energy portfolio, offering multiple pathways towards reducing carbon emissions.
While the company remains committed to battery electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel cells represent a parallel approach to sustainable mobility, particularly for markets and use cases where battery-electric vehicles may face limitations.
BMW’s decision to develop hydrogen fuel cell powertrains is rooted in the belief that a multi-faceted approach to alternative fuels is necessary to meet future energy demands. Hydrogen, as an abundant and clean source of energy, offers the potential to power vehicles with zero harmful emissions. When hydrogen is used in a fuel cell, it reacts with oxygen to produce electricity, and the only byproduct is water vapour.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen. Image: BMW
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG, spoke about the company’s vision for hydrogen technology. “Hydrogen fuel cell technology can be an attractive alternative to battery-electric technology, especially for customers who do not have access to electric charging infrastructure or prefer long-distance travel,” Zipse explained. He further emphasised that hydrogen-powered vehicles could complement the company’s existing portfolio, particularly in regions where renewable energy is widely available to produce green hydrogen.
BMW’s commitment to hydrogen fuel cell technology has materialised in the form of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. Unveiled as part of the company’s efforts to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen technology in real-world driving, this SUV integrates hydrogen fuel cells to offer a driving experience comparable to that of conventional electric vehicles.
Jürgen Guldner, Vice President of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology at BMW, spoke about the development of the iX5 Hydrogen: “We believe hydrogen has the potential to complement battery-electric vehicles by offering another emission-free solution that also suits larger vehicles or long-distance travel.”
He highlighted the flexibility that hydrogen power brings to the table, particularly in markets where infrastructure for battery charging is still developing. Guldner also noted that the iX5 Hydrogen has been designed with BMW’s hallmark driving dynamics in mind, ensuring that sustainability does not come at the cost of performance.
A crucial element in the successful deployment of hydrogen vehicles is the development of refuelling infrastructure. BMW recognises this challenge but remains optimistic about the global potential for hydrogen, especially in regions where governments are investing in green energy projects.
According to BMW, hydrogen fuel cells could play a pivotal role in reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, particularly for commercial fleets and heavy-duty transport, where battery limitations—such as charging time and weight—may hinder the adoption of pure electric vehicles. The German automaker believes that as more renewable energy becomes available, hydrogen could become a more viable and scalable solution.
Zipse reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to the development of hydrogen technology: “We are investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology because we believe it will play a key role in the energy transition, especially in sectors that are difficult to electrify with batteries alone.”
BMW is not venturing into hydrogen fuel cell development alone. The company has formed strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Toyota, which has extensive experience in hydrogen technology through its own development of the Mirai fuel cell vehicle. This collaboration is expected to accelerate innovation and drive down costs, making hydrogen-powered vehicles more accessible to consumers.
Moreover, BMW is working with suppliers and energy companies to promote the expansion of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, which remains one of the key bottlenecks for widespread adoption. “Collaborations with partners across industries are crucial to ensuring that hydrogen becomes a viable and sustainable option for mobility,” Guldner stated.
While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have been viewed by some as competitors to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), BMW sees the two technologies as complementary. For BMW, the future of mobility is not about choosing between one technology or the other, but rather about offering the right solution for different needs and markets.
Battery-electric vehicles are ideal for urban settings and shorter commutes, where charging infrastructure is readily available, while hydrogen fuel cells offer the advantage of fast refuelling and longer ranges, particularly suited for larger vehicles and cross-country travel.
BMW’s strategy is clear: by investing in both hydrogen and electric powertrains, the company aims to provide a diverse range of low-emission vehicles that meet the varied demands of global customers.
BMW’s decision to develop hydrogen fuel cell powertrains underscores its commitment to sustainable mobility, but also its belief in a diversified approach to achieving carbon neutrality. Hydrogen technology presents a promising future for sectors of the automotive market where battery-electric solutions may face limitations. By continuing to push the boundaries of both hydrogen and electric power, BMW is positioning itself as a leader in the transition to a cleaner, greener automotive industry.
As Zipse concluded, “Our goal is to deliver sustainable mobility for all. By investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology, we are taking an important step towards that future.”
Author: Mark Salisbury, Editor, Fleetpoint
