Spy Shots: BMW Hydrogen Hybrid System Being Tested In 1-Series

News I By John Beltz Snyder I April 12, 2010

Late last year, we saw spy photos of a 1-series hatchback bearing stickers that read, “Hybrid Test Vehicle.” Now, our spy shooter has sent us these images of a 1-Series hydrogen hybrid wearing the same stickers.

It uses a front-wheel-drive powertrain (already typically un-BMW), and combines it with a hydrogen fuel cell system, which powers an electric motor connected to the rear axle. The hybrid system, being developed for both BMW and Mini, could switch between combustion powering the front wheels, to emissions-free electricity powering the rear.

Have a look at the vehicle above, or scroll down for more information from the photographer.

BMW has announced that they are developing a new hydrogen hybrid drivetrain that could be used for the upcoming generation of front-wheel drive BMWs and for next generation Mini.

The system combines a conventional front-drive powertrain together with a hydrogen fuel cell, electricity-storing supercapacitors and an electrically driven rear axle.

The system is already testing under a front-wheel drive converted BMW 1-series as our photos show.

 

The Guide to Road Racing: Winding Road Magazine's ultimate guide to getting your start in racing.

Table of Contents

Related Articles

De Tomaso Unveils the Production Specification P72

A Vision From 1965, Revived for the Future Affalterbach, Germany – May 14, 2025 – Today, De Tomaso Automobili proudly unveils the production specification P72,…

May 14, 2025
Aston Martin DBX S: A New Flagship for the Supercar of SUVs

A new flagship for Aston Martin’s acclaimed SUV, DBX Power raised to a mighty 727PS, backed by 900Nm of torque Lightweight options offer a reduction…

April 29, 2025
Radically Customizable and Affordable, Beautifully Simplified: The Slate Truck Redefines Personalized Transportation

Slate serves the consumer good. Slate is a new American company founded on a disruptive business model of simplifying the manufacturing process and removing unnecessary…

April 24, 2025
The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance returns to America’s Resort May 2-4

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — (April 23, 2025): The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance, presented by Ferrari of Washington, returns to America’s Resort, The Greenbrier, May 2-4, 2025. Now…

April 23, 2025
2026 Kia K4 Hatchback Sets Foot in The Big Apple for Official Debut

Athletic and versatile: K4 Hatchback debuts as the athletic counterpart to the K4 sedan, featuring a distinctive floating roof design and versatile cargo space Spacious…

April 16, 2025

EMAIL SIGN UP

Get the latest driving and racing news straight to your inbox.

no thanks

Begin typing your search above and press return to search.