Both electricity and hydrogen represent two targets being developed at various scales for clean energy generation. Perhaps, one is more advanced than the other, and for the most part, the tilt is favoring electrification. However, several brands are betting on hydrogen as part of their sustainable process for the near future.
BMW and Bosch are among them. According to Motor.es, the two brands are working together, sharing knowledge and technologies, and developing a system that promises to change the driving of hydrogen-powered vehicles. FlatHyStorn, as the proposal has been called, promises to flatten the tank to store the green fuel in order to replace the current ones (cylindrical and bulky), and space-consuming, while preventing the use of flat bases as well as electric cars.
One of the most important challenges for companies working on hydrogen is to devise tanks strong enough to withstand the pressure of the green fuel. They are manufactured cylindrically to achieve that goal, so transitioning to a flat system would completely change the way vehicles are structured in multiple ways.
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Cylinder-shaped tanks release hydrogen if their structure is damaged, rather than exploding. There, BMW and Bosch are working to transform the capsules’ shape and make them flat. It sounds simple, but it is not. The actual shape represents a lot of inconvenience when manufacturing the vehicle.
Now, with FlatHyStorn, the storage tanks would be located on the lower part of the cars, flat and allowing more space, and thus, greater maneuverability and flexibility when designing parts, spaces and amenities for the driver. The first prototypes of this technology are scheduled to be built later this year.
About BMW
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, BMW Group is a manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles. It also offers premium mobility and financial services. The company’s production network comprises 31 manufacturing and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
About Bosch
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs approximately 401,300 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2021). According to preliminary figures, the company generated sales of €78.8 billion in 2021. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: mobility solutions, industrial technology, consumer goods and energy technology, as well as construction.
Written by | Ronald Ortega
