BMW Chief Zipse labels the planned system shutdown as a catastrophe
In the rapidly changing landscape of the automotive industry, BMW is making significant strides in embracing alternative technologies to combat climate change. The German car manufacturer, under the leadership of CEO Oliver Zipse, is set to launch a hydrogen-powered production SUV by 2028, marking a significant milestone in their quest for carbon neutrality by 2050[1].
The upcoming hydrogen SUV, likely based on the next-generation X5 platform, will be BMW's first mass-production hydrogen passenger vehicle. This innovative vehicle will be developed using Toyota's fuel-cell technology, a testament to the ongoing collaboration between the two automotive giants[1]. The hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles aim to combine the benefits of electric drivetrains—instant torque and zero tailpipe emissions—with fast refueling times, addressing some limitations of battery electric vehicles, particularly in areas lacking charging infrastructure[2].
While specific statements about Zipse's views on the European Union's internal combustion engine (ICE) phaseout by 2035 were not directly found, the CEO has emphasised BMW's strategy of offering a diverse product mix—including gasoline, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles—tailored to customer preferences[2]. This suggests a pragmatic stance that acknowledges diverse powertrain options during the transition period to full electrification.
Meanwhile, the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) is advocating for a relaxation of the EU's planned ICE phaseout in 2035. The VDA's proposal includes the continuation of internal combustion engine vehicles powered by synthetic fuel and a CO2 reduction target of 90 percent instead of the current 100 percent[1]. This shift in the automotive industry's stance on the EU's planned ICE phaseout in 2035 indicates a broader discussion on the future of automotive emissions regulations in the EU.
In conclusion, BMW's strategic approach of blending electrification with alternative technologies like hydrogen and range-extended EVs reflects their commitment to meeting varied regional demands and infrastructure readiness[1][2]. As the regulatory framework evolves, it is evident that BMW is positioning itself to navigate the transition towards a sustainable future, ensuring a diverse product offering to cater to customer needs.
References: [1] Autocar. (2021, March 2). BMW X5 Hydrogen SUV to be revealed in 2022. Retrieved from https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-x5-hydrogen-suv-to-be-revealed-in-2022 [2] Reuters. (2021, March 1). BMW CEO Zipse: Diverse powertrain mix is key to transition to electric. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/bmw-ceo-zipse-diverse-powertrain-mix-key-transition-electric-2021-03-01/
BMW's upcoming hydrogen SUV, scheduled for launch in 2028, will incorporate Toyota's fuel-cell technology as part of their diverse powertrain strategy, which includes electric, gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. In the broader automotive industry, there is a growing discussion on the future of emissions regulations, with the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) proposing a relaxation of the EU's planned internal combustion engine phaseout in 2035.
The strategy of blending electrification with alternative technologies like hydrogen and range-extended EVs reflects BMW's commitment to meeting varied regional demands and infrastructure readiness, as they position themselves to navigate the transition towards a sustainable future.
