bmwas we know, also looks with interest at hydrogen bond technology, continuing to pursue its strategy of “technological neutrality” in order to better respond to the various needs of the market. As we have seen, he developed a special variant of the X5 SUV, equipping it with Fuel cell power plant. This model, called BMW iX5 Hydrogenwas produced in a few copies (less than 100) for use internationally for demonstration purposes to demonstrate the benefits of this technology.
The automaker is back to talk about this vehicle completing its testing cycle in the United Arab Emirates under extreme climatic conditions.
The German manufacturer claims that the power unit with fuel cells it never presented any problems despite high temperatures, 45 degree peaks, sand and humidity conditions that fluctuated wildly throughout the day. In this way, BMW emphasizes that the Ful Cell technology has delivered excellent results even in these particularly difficult conditions of use for car mechanics.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen test fleet vehicles are currently located in Europe, Japan, Korea, China, the USA and the Middle East. The aim is to draw attention to the daily use of hydrogen-powered vehicles and, in addition to this, to provide important knowledge for development of a potential production model.
BMW is also using fuel cell SUVs in some countries to support the development of a hydrogen refueling infrastructure that can be used with 700 bar refueling technology not only for cars but also for small vans and buses. It will be interesting to see how these tests go with the BMW iX5 Hydrogen and whether the German brand really intends to add a 100% electric fuel cell to its range. We remind you that the manufacturer is considering the possibility of creating some models using this technology, developed on the new Neue Klasse platform.
To create this SUV, the German brand collaborated with Toyota, which has extensive experience in fuel cell technology. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is equipped with a fuel cell system producing 125 kW/170 hp and a powertrain using fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology.
The power plant consists of an electric motor. capable of developing a power of 295 kW / 401 hp. peak power. There is also a buffer battery that comes into play when more power is required from the electric motor, such as during acceleration (maximum battery power 170 kW/231 hp).
The hydrogen needed to power the fuel cell is stored in two carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) tanks that can hold up to 6 kg of hydrogen at 700 bar. Autonomy reaches 504 km WLTP cycle.
Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.