BMW are planning to release a limited series of hydrogen fuel-cell powered SUV’s in 2022, which could in theory challenge the battery-electric cars of the future. According to Chief Executive Oliver Zipse in their recent company shareholder meeting.
At its 2021 annual general meeting which took place on Wednesday 12 May 2021, BMW announced that they plan to run a small-scale production of a limited series hydrogen fuel cell powered SUV in 2022.
BMW is one of a small number of carmakers that are currently exploring the possibilities for the mass adoption of hydrogen fuel cells, which emit only water. Last December (2020), Japanese carmaker Toyota Motor unveiled its revamp Mirai hydrogen fuel cell car, BMW have worked together on this vision which has revolved around developing fuel cells.
Although hydrogen fuel cell cars offers a solution to the problem of carbon emissions and providing greater range than battery-electric vehicles, the problem still remains that there is very little fuelling infrastructure to support such vehicles.
Oliver Zipse, BMW CEO commented on the call:
“Trademark blue patterning on the bonnet, blue finishes to the radiator grill, and styled blue plates where exhaust pipes would once have been – design modifications that clearly denote a vehicle is part of the BMW i model. From the end of 2022, these features will be available as part of a small fleet of hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles and BMW has outlined its vision for hydrogen drivetrains in an exclusive interview with H2 View.
From the end of 2022, these features will be available as part of a small fleet of hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles from the German premium car manufacturer”
For more information on Hydrogen Fuel Cell cars and how they work, head over to the BMW website:
https://www.bmw.com/en/innovation/how-hydrogen-fuel-cell-cars-work.html
