Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder (CDU) and Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder (CSU) personally presented the funding notification on Wednesday in Berlin.
“We must not abandon the automobile,” Söder emphasized during the ceremony. The federal government is contributing the main share of around €191 million, while Bavaria is adding approximately €82 million.
Söder Personally Presents €273 Million Check: BMW to Develop Hydrogen Engine by 2028
The funds will be used to develop a fuel cell powertrain. The first vehicles equipped with it are expected to hit the market in 2028. Schnieder sees hydrogen as a key component, both as an energy carrier and for the transport sector. This technology strengthens the diversity and competitiveness of German automotive manufacturing.
BMW Board Member for Development Joachim Post highlighted the company’s innovative potential during the presentation.
The Munich-based automaker plans to offer the BMW X5 with five different powertrain options in the future. Among them, starting in 2028, a hydrogen fuel cell option should also be available.
Söder used the opportunity to reiterate his stance on technological openness. While electric drive will likely dominate in Europe, different markets worldwide need to be served with various technologies. The CSU politician spoke clearly against a strict ban on new internal combustion engine cars in the EU from 2035.
Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger (Free Voters) concurrently called for the creation of a comprehensive refueling station infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles. He stated this is an essential prerequisite for the success of the new powertrain technology.
Source: dpa
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