While the entire world was gradually moving towards electric vehicles (EVs), Toyota was the only major carmaker who stuck to developing their hydrogen-powered engines. And in a sudden turn of events, another giant car manufacturer, BMW is set to move towards the same technology.
BMW is among the few manufacturers actively pursuing hydrogen technology and plans to roll out hydrogen-powered cars by 2025.
Hydrogen-powered engines appear to be emerging as a potential game-changer in the automotive industry, challenging the dominance of electric vehicles (EVs) in the quest for zero-emission transportation. While EVs have taken centre stage, hydrogen cars, equipped with innovative hydrogen fuel cell, are making their mark by offering a unique eco-friendly advantage.
In contrast to the 2.5 million EVs on US roads alone (one of the biggest car markets in the world), as of mid-2022, only around 15,000 hydrogen cars are in operation. However, the tide is turning as hydrogen engines gain traction and aim to secure a substantial market share, even before the electric vehicle companies set their sights on dominating the market by 2030.
According to BMW CEO Oliver Zipse, hydrogen engines are poised to play a significant role globally in the long term. The focus on fast performance, quick refuelling, and environmental sustainability aligns with the emerging priorities in the transportation sector.
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles operate similarly to battery-electric vehicles but utilize a stack of fuel cells instead of a heavy battery. These fuel cells combine hydrogen and oxygen to produce only water vapour and generate electricity, making them a type of hybrid known as fuel-cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEV).
Despite hydrogen being the most abundant element in the universe, its pure form is rare and often combined with other elements. Creating pure hydrogen for vehicles involves an energy-intensive process, typically derived from fossil fuels. However, the advantages of hydrogen engines, such as quick refuelling and consistent driving range, make them a compelling alternative to EVs.
BMW is set to introduce the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, an eco-friendly SUV that promises to lead electric mobility with impressive performance. This concept vehicle is part of BMW's strategy to meet ambitious targets for zero carbon emissions. The iX5 Hydrogen boasts features like 400+ horsepower, minimal refuelling requirements, fifth-generation fuel cell technology, and a range of approximately 500 kilometres, comparable to top EVs like the Tesla Model Y.
While electric cars have seen a rapid increase in numbers, the International Energy Agency said that only 14% of vehicles were electric in 2022, with a projected increase of 4% by the end of 2024. This presents a substantial opportunity for hydrogen cars to gain a foothold in the market, especially as they compete against high-emission vehicles.
Manufacturers of hydrogen engines should recognize that there will not be a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone's mobility needs globally. Therefore, the future may witness various alternative driving systems coexisting to meet the diverse demands of consumers, businesses, cities, and countries.