During the past week, we received promising updates on hydrogen technology development, not from just one, but two independent car manufacturers, which has renewed our hope.
Earlier this week, the Japanese unveiled the hydrogen-powered Hilux prototype by Toyota, a limited-production vehicle aimed at testing if the system deployed in the Mirai can also be effective in pickup trucks. It is still unclear whether Toyota will approve the production of this alternative fuel Hilux, but its unveiling gives us reason to believe that hydrogen is starting to receive more serious consideration.
Now, we have news from BMW that their recently launched iX5 Hydrogen fleet is undergoing tests in various locations worldwide, including Europe, Japan, South Korea, China, the United States, and the Middle East.
Today, we focus on the SUV operating in the Middle East, as the manufacturer claims it has just completed its first round of "intensive hot weather testing." How hot? The temperature reached a scorching 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit), with the desert dust and humidity fluctuations making the weather even more sweltering in the United Arab Emirates.
BMW has not provided detailed information about the testing and its results. However, judging from its appearance, both the SUV and its alternative fuel system passed the test flawlessly.
The work on the hydrogen system doesn't end here, as BMW plans to continue testing in the foreseeable future. The car manufacturer is not only seeking ways to advance the technology but also aiming to assist in developing a hydrogen refueling network suitable for all hydrogen-powered vehicles, regardless of brand or size.
