18 Sept 2023
As the automotive industry races to reduce carbon emissions, hydrogen fuel cells are emerging as a promising alternative for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). Major automakers like Toyota and BMW are making substantial investments in this game-changing fuel cell technology.
In a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), specially designed cells combine hydrogen with oxygen, producing only water and warm air as byproducts. This eco-friendly process has the potential to reduce a staggering 36 billion tons of CO2 emissions generated annually from burning fossil fuels.
While there were just over 810 refueling stations for FCEVs worldwide in 2022, this number remains relatively small for rapid adoption. However, an industry report predicts that by 2030, FCEVs could reach 13 million units, supported by a network of over 10,000 refueling stations across the globe.
BMW's Hydrogen Commitment
BMW firmly believes that hydrogen fuel cell technology will play a crucial role in combating climate change, complementing battery electric vehicles. The automaker has been actively researching and developing this zero-emission vehicle tech since 2000.
In line with its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, BMW has intensified its hydrogen development efforts. This has led to the creation of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, launched in February this year. The BMW iX5 FCEV boasts a robust drive system with a total output of 401 horsepower, a top speed exceeding 112 MPH, and an impressive range of 504 kilometers (313 miles).
Notably, BMW's hydrogen-powered iX5 has demonstrated exceptional performance, even in extreme conditions. It recently completed a rigorous hot-weather test in Dubai, where temperatures soared to 45°C. The BMW development team meticulously examined all electric systems and cooling mechanisms to ensure that performance and range remain uncompromised.
The vehicle stores hydrogen fuel in two 700-bar tanks, holding a total of 6 kilograms of H2. About 100 of these BMW hydrogen vehicles were deployed worldwide for testing across different regions, earning acclaim in Germany, California, the Middle East, Japan, Korea, the US, and China.
Production Targets by 2030
BMW's long-term objective is to introduce these pilot hydrogen vehicles into production by 2030. To achieve this ambitious target, BMW has partnered with Toyota, a prominent advocate for FCEVs and hydrogen technology.
Toyota's Hydrogen Vision
Toyota, renowned for its commitment to hydrogen technology, has set an ambitious goal of launching its hydrogen-powered truck, the Hilux, on the market by 2030. In July this year, Toyota made headlines by announcing plans to sell 200,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles, with a focus on the Chinese and European markets.
Toyota's latest milestone involves unveiling the FCEV prototype Hilux, which showcases the brand's global push towards hydrogen vehicles. This groundbreaking hydrogen pickup truck is the result of a collaborative effort with consortium partners in England, backed by over $13 million in funding from the UK Government.
The Toyota Hilux emits no tailpipe pollution other than water and boasts an impressive driving range of over 600 kilometers (365 miles) with its three high-pressure tanks. Pending successful results, Toyota plans to proceed with small-scale production, although specific details of the hydrogen-powered Hilux have not been disclosed.
The automaker is set to produce the first of 10 Hilux vehicles by the end of 2023, subjecting them to rigorous safety, functionality, and durability testing to meet production standards.
A Growing Shift Towards Hydrogen
Several major automakers, including Honda, Hyundai, and luxury brand Land Rover, are also exploring hydrogen fuel cells for their vehicles. Land Rover, with a strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2036, is actively developing its FCEV.
The automotive industry is inching closer to the hydrogen era as it seeks innovative solutions to combat climate change. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars, with BMW and Toyota at the forefront of this revolutionary shift, making substantial investments in hydrogen fuel cell technology.