BMW has started testing a prototype X5 powered by a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain on European roads, confirming that a small-series model will be launched in the market in late 2022.
The hydrogen-powered X5 prototype is officially called the BMW i Hydrogen Next and the new testing program will allow the carmaker to gain more practical experience with this zero-emissions drive technology.
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“Hydrogen fuel cell technology can be an attractive option for sustainable drivetrains – especially in larger vehicle classes,” said Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “That is why road testing of near-standard vehicles with a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain is an important milestone in our research and development efforts.”
The hydrogen powertrain in the prototype BMW X5 combines the carmaker’s fifth-generation eDrive electric motors with a fuel cell that converts hydrogen into electricity. BMW claims that the fuel cell in this prototype delivers an electrical output of 167 HP (170 PS), with a converter adjusting its voltage to that of the electric motor.
Some energy is also stored in a buffer battery and then used for dynamic acceleration maneuvers and short bursts of acceleration for overtaking. Thanks to this, the fuel cell system produces an output of 368 HP (374 PS), giving this X5 the equivalent performance of a normal production X5 with the most powerful six-cylinder engine.
The hydrogen is stored in two 700-bar tanks made out of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) that can hold six kilograms of the stuff.
We don’t know yet how limited the production version of the hydrogen-powered X5 will be or if it’s going to be available in regions like North America. More information will be revealed at a later date, as we edge closer to the model’s official introduction in late 2022.
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