Landshut: The cradle of future powertrains
BMW’s Landshut plant, already a hub for electric vehicle component production, is stepping up its game. It has just begun manufacturing the ‘Energy Master’, a crucial control unit for the group’s future hydrogen-powered vehicles. This component will be integrated into the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen and represents a significant technological leap. Simultaneously, the site is commissioning a second production line for control units for battery-electric vehicles, particularly those destined for the upcoming ‘Neue Klasse’ platform.
The Energy Master: The brain of the hydrogen system
At the core of hydrogen propulsion, the ‘Energy Master’ plays a pivotal role. Unlike in battery-electric vehicles where it’s attached to the high-voltage battery, a modified version of this module orchestrates the propulsion system in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. It acts as a central interface, managing energy and data flow between the fuel cell system, the innovative high-voltage battery, and the electric motors. Its mission is to ensure the entire powertrain operates safely, intelligently, and performs dynamically – a hallmark of the BMW brand.
Synergies between electric and hydrogen: Landshut’s advantage
The dual expertise at the Landshut plant is no accident. It fosters valuable synergies between battery-electric and hydrogen-based propulsion technologies. Close integration between the electronic development teams and series production experts positions the site as a key player for both technological avenues. For the first time, BMW is fully in-house developing and producing this pivotal part, signalling a commitment to complete value chain mastery.
Enhanced role for hydrogen components
Beyond the Energy Master, Landshut is cementing its status as an expertise centre for innovative drive technologies. The plant already produces the media distribution plate and the fuel cell housing for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet. The former ensures precise distribution of hydrogen and air within the fuel cell, while the latter structurally integrates and protects the system’s core. These components, refined through development, are vital for the future vehicle’s performance and reliability.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen: A pragmatic vision
The forthcoming BMW iX5 Hydrogen, with series production slated for 2028, innovates with a new hydrogen tank concept. This arrangement and its dimensions promise an impressive range of up to 750 kilometres*. The ‘Hydrogen Flat Storage’ system optimises available space and integrates without encroaching on cabin room, allowing for fuel cell models to be produced on the same lines as internal combustion or electric vehicles. Coupled with the third-generation (Gen3) fuel cell, co-developed with Toyota, and an innovative high-voltage battery, this system aims to deliver the distinctive BMW driving pleasure.
Hydrogen strategy: Another option for BMW
In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, BMW maintains a strategy of technological openness. By integrating fuel cell technology into its range, notably with the future iX5 Hydrogen, the group broadens its offering and makes the benefits of hydrogen accessible to its customers. Hydrogen offers a solution for electric driving with long range and rapid refuelling, while diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on a single infrastructure or supply chain.
Public support and significant investment
This development is part of substantial public support. The ‘HyPowerDrive’ project, encompassing the development of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s powertrain and tank system, receives funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport. Bavaria also provides significant co-funding. Since 2020, BMW has invested hundreds of millions of euros to bolster electromobility and key technologies at Landshut, consolidating the site as a strategic industrial hub for the future of automotive engineering.
- Key takeaway: BMW is strengthening its position in hydrogen technology with a key component now produced in-house at Landshut.
- The advantage: The group now masters a crucial part for its future fuel cell vehicles, ensuring performance and integration.
- The context: The Bavarian plant is becoming an expertise centre for both electric and hydrogen powertrains, creating synergies.
- The future: The BMW iX5 Hydrogen, expected in 2028, promises a compelling range and a flexible design.
- The strategy: BMW is committed to technological openness, viewing hydrogen as a relevant complement to battery-electric power.
- The backing: Significant public and private investment supports the development of this sector in Germany.
