BMW M's Secret Weapon: Testing Synthetic Fuels for the Future
The proclaimed demise of the internal combustion engine (ICE) might be premature. Despite the electric vehicle (EV) revolution sweeping the automotive world, titans like Toyota remain skeptics, forecasting that EVs will only capture a maximum of 30% market share. So, what about the remaining 70%? That’s where combustion engines and innovative solutions like hydrogen and synthetic fuels come into play.
BMW M’s Engagement with Synthetic Fuels
During a recent trip to the iconic Salzburgring in Austria, we sat down with Dirk Häcker, BMW M's Head of Development, to peel back the layers on synthetic fuels. While BMW M hasn’t ventured into developing these fuels independently, it’s meticulously analyzing and testing them across its high-performance models. Häcker remarked, 'We are not developing e-fuels, but we take a very intensive look at the development all over the world. We are also able to use most of them in our actual models.'
The Motorsport Influence
BMW M isn't solely focused on consumer vehicles. Engaging with synthetic fuels is seen as a forward-thinking necessity, especially considering the racing world's shift toward sustainable energy. Frank van Meel, BMW M’s boss, emphasized this focus, noting that key racing series are embracing greener energy sources. Formula 1 plans to transition to 100% sustainable fuel by 2026, and IMSA aims to use fully renewable fuel soon. While WRC made its switch in 2022, the WEC is already using the 100% renewable Excellium Racing 100 by TotalEnergies, derived from bioethanol based on wine residues from France’s agricultural sector.
Global Pioneers: Porsche and Toyota’s Contributions
One might think BMW would be leading the charge in synthetic fuels, but it’s rival Porsche that has made significant strides. Porsche isn’t just developing synthetic fuel; it’s producing it in Chile, generating renewable fuel from water and carbon dioxide through wind energy. The result is near CO2-neutral fuel, creating minimal environmental footprint while preserving the essence of combustion engines.
On another front, Toyota positions itself uniquely with a focus on hydrogen as a fuel source for ICE. Their turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, for instance, powers hydrogen-fueled prototypes of the popular GR Yaris and GR Corolla. Interestingly, BMW collaborates with Toyota on the iX5 project, which may lead to a hydrogen-fueled production model by 2027. A potential candidate for this innovation is the new X5 (G65), rumored to feature striking X-shaped headlights.
The Road Ahead
BMW M’s journey with synthetic fuels is an intriguing one, highlighting the broader, complex landscape of the automotive industry’s future. While electric vehicles grab headlines, synthetic and hydrogen fuels offer pathways to sustain and elevate the traditional driving experience. With Porsche and Toyota pushing boundaries, BMW M stands ready to integrate these advancements, ensuring that the roar of an engine and the thrill of driving persist well into the future.