While the world has significantly moved towards electric cars (EVs), Toyota was the only well-known automaker to commit to hydrogen-powered engines. But another large automaker, BMW, is preparing to switch to the same technology in a sudden development.
As astonishing as it may sound, BMW recently announced that they have solved the problem of hydrogen engines and will say goodbye to electric cars. It seems like hydrogen cars could be the next big thing in the automotive industry. Due to only producing water vapor emissions, hydrogen-powered automobiles may now be able to compete with electric vehicles (EVs) for the title of most environmentally friendly vehicle.
The United States is known for being one of the biggest car markets in the world due to its strong automotive industry, diversity of vehicles, and large and wealthy population. Compared to the 2.5 million EVs that are currently on the road, only 15,000 correspond to hydrogen cars. However, the tide might be turning as hydrogen-powered engines gain traction and aim to secure a substantial market share before 2030.
Despite the fast rise in the number of electric vehicles, the International Energy Agency said that in 2022, just 14% of vehicles were electric, with a predicted 4% growth by the end of 2024. This offers hydrogen cars a significant chance to establish themselves in the market.
BMW set to launch hydrogen cars by 2025
Fast performance, fast refilling, and environmentally friendly solutions will be the main priorities in the upcoming era of transportation. Hydrogen engines are starting to emerge as a potential game changer in the automobile industry, and they are in line with these priorities.
According to BMW CEO Oliver Zipse, long-term, hydrogen engines are expected to be important in many parts of the world since they support the company’s goal of zero emissions.
Similar to a battery-electric car, a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle (HFCV) runs on a stack of fuel cells rather than a bulky battery. In simple terms, fuel-cell vehicles are a form of hybrid vehicle termed fuel-cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEV). These fuel cells use airborne hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) to make water vapor and generate electricity.
However, since hydrogen is not typically found in its pure form and is often combined with other elements, creating pure hydrogen requires a high-energy process to break down the compounds derived from fossil fuels, like natural gas.
While hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) are comparable, there are some significant differences. For example, both types of vehicles have hydrogen engines that are capable of rapid refueling and continuous driving range under varying temperatures.
BMW Munich plant will support hydrogen car production
BMW Plant Munich will be the company’s first plant to switch totally to electric automobiles, beginning with the assembly of a Neue Klasse model in 2026 with an electric sedan sized like the 3 Series. By the end of 2027, all vehicles built there will be electric. About 1,000 cars from the 3 Series and 4 Series lineups are produced daily at the Munich plant.
The family comprises the 4 Series Gran Coupe-based i4, as well as the M4 and M3 Sedan/Touring variants. High-ranking officials have said that huge and heavy cars are better suited for hydrogen technology, implying that an SUV-shaped production model may be in the works.
BMW’s bold decision raises exciting possibilities, but it’s crucial to remain cautious. Although hydrogen engines have benefits, they are not a panacea; both electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles have drawbacks, and the best course of action is probably a combination of technologies that are suited to different applications. Innovation in technology and ongoing research are necessary for sustainable transportation in the future.