BMW is accelerating the development of second-generation powertrain technology using hydrogen fuel cells. However, in these difficult times it is not entirely clear what the future will look like for the BMW i Hydrogen Next. Currently, car manufacturers are continuing electric cars that draw their power from batteries and plugs, but given that it poses some challenges when it comes to charging, other roads are being used at the same time.

Hydrogen fuel cell cars could be a solution, provided the costs and availability of this type of fuel are acceptable. Once they do, hydrogen has everything it takes to eventually overtake conventionally powered EVs, if helped.

For some time now, a number of car manufacturers have been testing the hydrogen fuel cell, including Toyota and BMW. The two teamed up about seven years ago to share the costs and knowledge for developing such a vehicle. BMW says it plans to test the system on X2022s sometime in 5 and sell it a few years after that.

The BMW i Hydrogen Next, as the car is still called, gets a 375 hp electric motor, which works on electricity obtained from hydrogen. The car has two hydrogen tanks, which together account for 6 kilos of hydrogen.

hydrogen policy in the Netherlands

Eric Wiebes, Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate, agrees that the most common element in the universe also appears to have a very connecting effect in the Netherlands, in particular due to the unique starting position of the Netherlands. This becomes clear in the agreements in the Climate Agreement, which include a strong ambition for hydrogen, supported by a large and broad group of stakeholders. 

Industrial clusters and ports see hydrogen as an indispensable part of their future and sustainability strategy. For the transport sector, hydrogen (in combination with fuel cells) is crucial for achieving zero-emission transport. The agricultural sector sees opportunities for the production of hydrogen and for its use; cities, regions and provinces want to work with hydrogen.

The cabinet embraces these ambitions and recognizes the strength of this action perspective, which has been shown by so many parties. A commitment to sustainable hydrogen in the Netherlands creates new jobs, improves air quality and is essential for the energy transition.

efforts in multiple areas

In the agreements about hydrogen in the These have already been partially addressed in the Climate Agreement, with key words being upscaling, cost reduction and innovation. The government must fulfill the necessary preconditions and companies and knowledge institutions will invest in scalable applications and innovation.

If hydrogen is to make a substantial contribution to the energy transition and climate policy as quickly as possible, our commitment to upscaling and roll-out must be part of a (Northwest) European and, if possible, global approach. Major cost reductions can be achieved internationally.

Also read: Volkswagen closes factories in Europe for several weeks

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