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BMW has revealed initial powertrain details for its i Hydrogen Next SUV ahead of a market release in 2022.

 

To keep things simple, the i Hydrogen Next is essentially an X5 powered by a hydrogen fuel-cell that drives an electric motor.

 

The two tanks can hold a total of six kilograms of hydrogen at 700 bar. The fuel-cell stack can produce 125kW and be refilled in three to four minutes.

 

In the final production car, BMW says the system will have a total output of 275kW. The brand is yet to confirm the i Hydrogen Next’s driving range.

 

The German marque is working with Toyota to co-develop hydrogen fuel cell technology.

 

At this stage, BMW is planning a small series production run in 2022 with mass production expected to commence after 2025.

 

Production will be largely determined by the rollout of supporting infrastructure. Globally, there is a lack of public refuelling stations which limits the tech’s appeal.  

 

In Asian and European markets Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo fuel-cell models have made it to dealerships, but the cost (in the vicinity of AU$100,000) rules out the majority of potential buyers.