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The rise of battery-electric vehicles has overshadowed hydrogen fuel-cell cars, but BMW remains confident in the technology’s potential. Drive tested the latest BMW iX5 Hydrogen prototype in Australia, revealing that hydrogen vehicles could be a viable alternative to electric cars.
Hydrogen cars promise similar driving ranges and refuelling times to petrol cars, with near-zero emissions. However, their high cost and lack of refuelling infrastructure have been significant barriers. Despite these challenges, in collaboration with Toyota, BMW has developed a hydrogen prototype based on the BMW X5 SUV.
This vehicle uses a fuel cell to convert hydrogen gas into electricity, offering a driving experience akin to electric vehicles. The prototype, which can refuel in minutes and boasts a range of up to 504km, shows promise for the future of hydrogen technology.
BMW envisions a future where hydrogen and electric vehicles coexist, catering to different needs. Hydrogen cars could be ideal for those who travel long distances or can’t charge electric cars at home.
The iX5 Hydrogen features a sleek design and advanced technology, including a 295kW electric motor and a 700-bar hydrogen storage system. Its performance and refuelling convenience make it a compelling option, provided infrastructure and costs are addressed.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen represents a significant step forward, offering a practical and eco-friendly driving solution. Whether this technology will gain widespread adoption depends on overcoming existing challenges, but the potential is undeniable.
