Faced with the rapid progress of electric vehicles and the many problems still associated with hydrogen, it is conceivable that manufacturers will gradually abandon their ambitions related to this fuel. But according to the very serious Nikkei media, BMW is going to do it mass production of hydrogensoon.

BMW fuel cell SUV to start mass production as early as 2025: Executive – Nikkei Asia https://t.co/zMFlWs26Z5

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A new alliance between BMW and Toyota

Despite the efforts of some manufacturers, including Toyota, for now hydrogen seems destined to be confined to utilities. The advantages in terms of autonomy and the “recharge” time is undeniable. But the supply network is almost non-existent, especially for individuals, and the mass production of hydrogen still pollutes the environment. So, if some brands started to announce hydrogen utilities, hydrogen passenger cars, it is not for tomorrow.

Except that’s not BMW’s opinion. As Nikkei reports, the Bavarian manufacturer will launch mass production of the hydrogen model by 2025. And this, in addition to the hydrogen BMW iX5, which should enter production before the end of the year, but in a small series. And to implement this big project, BMW should cooperate with Toyota. The Japanese giant, a leader in the production of hydrogen cars with the Mirai, has already collaborated with BMW, most recently on the development of the sporty Supra and Z4.

BMW sales manager Peter Nota told Nikkei that ” Hydrogen fuel cell technology is particularly suitable for large SUVs“. Can we imagine BMW iX version who would replace their batteries with hydrogen tanks? This already applies to the next hydrogen BMW iX5.

A big hydrogen SUV on the way?

In any case, if this rumor were to be confirmed, it would be a serious blow for BMW against the competition. Launching a production hydrogen model is no small feat, and surely few expected this model back in 2025. Another possible asset to prepare BMW for reduce the share of their thermal machines in their sales. BMW’s goal remains sales less than 50% thermal at the level of the group as a whole (BMW, Mini, Rolls-Royce) until 2030. But, ” If everything continues at this pace, we can achieve this goal a year or two earlier than planned“.

If Nikkei’s information turns out to be true, we can expect the presentation of this hydrogen BMW. until 2023 or 2024. But don’t expect a cheap small SUV: BMW will likely want to make this model the brand’s hydrogen flagship, since the iX is electric.

Source: Nikkei