Truck patrons in Europe have a brand new Toyota Hilux on the horizon, bringing a bit extra energy and effectivity to the favored pickup. The firm simply launched a mild-hybrid model that provides a wholesome quantity of thrust to the already brisk diesel powertrain.
This Hilux iteration includes a 48-volt delicate hybrid system with a single motor integrated into the powertrain, including an additional 16 horsepower (12 kilowatts) and 48 pound-feet (65 Newton-meters) of torque to the combination. It’s fused with Toyota’s turbocharged 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder engine which produces 201 hp and a stout 369 lb-ft of twist by itself. A small 48V lithium battery powers the motor, and being a mild-hybrid system, there isn’t any electric-only mode.
Munich. BMW M Motorsport is set to make its debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) with BMW M Team WRT participating in both the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes. The Belgian team is fielding two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3 cars. The initial driver lineup has been confirmed, with Dries Vanthoor (BEL) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) driving the two LMDh cars, while Augusto Farfus (BRA) and Valentino Rossi (ITA) will be competing in the two BMW M4 GT3 cars.
The nine-time motorcycle world champion, Valentino Rossi, will be taking on a new challenge in the BMW M4 GT3 with his iconic number 46. Last season, he made his debut on the iconic Le Mans circuit (FRA) during the “Road to Le Mans” races and won one of the two races. The BMW M Team WRT BMW M Hybrid V8 cars will carry the numbers 15 and 20, while the second BMW M4 GT3 will have the number 31.
The additional drivers for BMW M Team WRT in the FIA WEC season 2024 will be announced later. Both Vanthoor and van der Linde will be joined by two more BMW M works drivers each in the two BMW M Hybrid V8 cars. For the LMGT3 category, amateur drivers will be included as per the regulations.
Reactions to the FIA WEC lineup:
Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): With BMW M Team WRT confirmed for the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes, and the initial drivers in place, our return to the FIA WEC takes another important step. BMW M Team WRT is one of the best teams globally in both the prototype and GT3 segments. Vincent Vosse’s team is the logical choice for both the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3. The nominated BMW M works drivers possess the necessary driving skill and experience. Sheldon van der Linde is already familiar with the BMW M Hybrid V8, and Dries Vanthoor made a strong impression during test drives. Additionally, he has previously competed at Le Mans in an LMP2 prototype. Valentino Rossi had a strong debut at Le Mans this season, winning immediately in the BMW M4 GT3. His first season as a BMW M works driver has been very impressive, and I am convinced that he will play an important role and be a crowd favorite in the FIA WEC. Augusto Farfus, with his experience and driving skill, will be a crucial pillar for the LMGT3 programme.
Vincent Vosse (Team Principal BMW M Team WRT): We feel privileged to have the opportunity to field both two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3s for BMW M Motorsport in the FIA WEC. While we have two separate crews for the two projects, it will still be a significant challenge for WRT. The drivers who will be working with us, we already know very well from previous joint racing commitments. Starting with Valentino Rossi in the FIA WEC is something truly special and feels like we’ve already achieved most of what we discussed.
Dries Vanthoor (#15 BMW M Hybrid V8): I am excited to be part of the BMW M Motorsport WEC programme. It is a dream come true for me to compete in the top class of endurance racing, and I aim to achieve good results. We have conducted tests, and by the start of the season, we will have accomplished a lot of work. I am very proud to be part of this significant programme and will be working tirelessly to bring some trophies to Munich.
Sheldon van der Linde (#20 BMW M Hybrid V8): Having the chance to drive at Le Mans with the BMW M Hybrid V8 is fantastic. It will be my first time competing in an official FIA World Championship, which is also very special for me. We have a lot of work ahead, but I am looking forward to the challenge. I am already familiar with the LMDh car from the IMSA series, which is an advantage. Racing with it is incredibly fun, and I am excited about the significant challenge ahead.
Augusto Farfus (#31 BMW M4 GT3): Being selected for the FIA WEC programme is a great honor. I believe the FIA WEC will be the biggest racing platform in the world next year, alongside Formula 1. Personally, I have not had much luck in my past starts at Le Mans. Hopefully, we can change that! I am especially looking forward to my home race in São Paulo.
Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3): Competing in the FIA WEC is the next step for me to participate in a world championship and race globally again. Overall, I believe we will be very well positioned.
The future of mobility is rapidly approaching, promising fast refueling, prioritized performance, and zero emissions. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are gaining popularity, and BMW is one of the automakers at the forefront of this movement.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is scheduled to be one of three hydrogen-powered vehicles released by BMW dealerships in 2024. This sustainable SUV concept aims to revolutionize electric mobility while offering exceptional performance. As companies, cities, and countries strive to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in the coming decades, a variety of renewable energy sources are required. Hydrogen plays a crucial role in this future.
About 100 BMW iX5 Hydrogen test models have been produced and rolled out in recent months to showcase the brand’s vision for the future. The expected features of the iX5 suggest that hydrogen-powered vehicles may offer advantages that even current electric vehicles, including BMW’s EV lineup, cannot provide.
The information in this article is based on sources like BMW, Car and Driver, Global Market Insights, SAE, and the International Energy Agency.
One notable advantage of hydrogen vehicles is their quick refueling time. Hydrogen refueling typically takes only three to five minutes, and the BMW iX5 Hydrogen promises a four-minute refueling time—similar to or even faster than refueling a gas-powered car at a gas pump.
However, the limited availability of hydrogen refueling stations remains a major challenge. Unlike gas stations or electric charging stations, hydrogen fueling stations are still scarce.
Over 400 Horses At Your Disposal
In addition to its fast refueling time, the iX5 Hydrogen boasts impressive performance. It combines fifth-generation fuel cell technology with an electric motor, providing 401 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just six seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph. The vehicle is equipped with a 400-volt battery located above its hydrogen-powered motor. In terms of range, it offers approximately 313 miles, which is comparable to top-ranked electric vehicles like the Tesla Model Y and the Rivian R1T.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen Technical Specifications
Layout
Dual hydrogen fuel cells with a single electric motor
Horsepower
401 horsepower
Torque
524 pound-feet
Range
313 miles
0-60 MPH
6.0 seconds
Top Speed
115 MPH
Price
TBA
(Specs sourced from BMW and Car and Driver)
Hydrogen’s availability and infrastructure play a significant role in realizing a carbon-neutral future. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s quick refueling, impressive range, and smooth driving experience make it a compelling alternative for fans of internal combustion engines.
BMW has committed to achieving carbon-neutral status for its brand by 2050 at the latest. As deadlines for all-electric and zero-emissions fleets approach, various technological innovations and fuel sources are necessary to achieve these environmentally conscious goals.
BMW Is Committed To Hydrogen Tech
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is part of the brand’s collaboration with the United Nations’ “Race To Zero” initiative, which includes responsible sourcing of materials. Hydrogen vehicles require fewer raw materials in production and engineering compared to electric vehicles.
While the percentage of electric vehicles on the road has increased significantly in recent years, they still account for only 14% of total vehicles as of 2022, according to the International Energy Agency. This percentage is expected to increase by 4% by the end of 2023. Therefore, there is still a large market share dominated by high-emission gas-powered vehicles. Hydrogen technology has the potential to fill this gap.
As investors recognize the potential, the availability of hydrogen technology is expected to grow significantly. Global Market Insights projects that the current market value of the hydrogen vehicle sector, currently at $2.8 billion, will reach $33.2 billion by 2032.
The iX5 Takes Inspiration From BMW’s EV and Gas-Powered Lineup
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen draws inspiration from the electric iX while also comparing favorably to both BMW’s electric and gas-powered vehicle lineup. For instance, the iX5 is expected to outperform some of BMW’s all-electric vehicles in terms of specifications. The BMW i4 has a range of 307 miles, starting at 227 miles, and the i5 offers a range of only 295 miles.
Moreover, the iX5 Hydrogen shares similarities with the all-electric BMW iX SUV. While offering similar torque, the iX has more power with 516 horsepower and quicker acceleration of two seconds. However, the iX5 has a slightly better range at 311 miles and a top speed of 124 mph. Additionally, the iX5 Hydrogen has the advantage of significantly shorter charging time compared to the iX, which requires 11 hours to charge using a level two charger.
Not Mighty Fast, But the iX5 Is No Slouch Either
The iX5 Hydrogen is also competitive with gas-powered BMW models. For example, the BMW X1 has a similar 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.2 seconds, but it has a combined city and highway fuel economy of 23 MPG. The estimated horsepower of the 2024 X1 is lower than that of the iX5 at about 312 horsepower.
BMW strikes a balance with the iX5 by leveraging its existing models. Rather than creating a completely new product, BMW builds on what it does best, resulting in the iX5 Hydrogen outperforming both electric and gas models. This hydrogen-powered vehicle could convince traditionalists of internal combustion engines to embrace eco-friendly alternatives.
The Skoda Octavia is about to receive a refreshing update, and these spy photos give us a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. Notably, we get our first look at the new model’s interior.
The upcoming Octavia still maintains its recognizable appearance, as seen in previous spy shots. The front grille presents vertical uprights with a dip in the middle of its upper border. Moreover, the headlights adopt a rectangular shape, while the lower fascia combines horizontal fins with vertical inlets on the outer edges.
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