BMW Group’s foray into hydrogen fuel cell technology takes a significant leap with the month-long testing phase of two BMW iX5 Hydrogens by the Paris Police Prefecture and the Orly Air Transport Gendarmerie.
This trial, conducted in real conditions, aims to demonstrate the adaptability and performance of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen in meeting the stringent requirements of French institutions in their daily law enforcement missions.
For over 90 years, the BMW Group has been actively involved in institutional markets, supplying more than 160,000 official motorcycles to authorities in over 150 countries. The recent deployment of BMW iX5 Hydrogens to the Paris Police Prefecture and the Air Transport Gendarmerie underscores the growing interest in hydrogen technology within law enforcement agencies.
The Ministry of the Interior and Overseas Territories spearheaded this initiative to explore innovative solutions for law enforcement mobility. Mr. Jean Bouverot, Head of the purchasing, innovation, and logistics department, emphasizes the importance of integrating new technologies to create a more sustainable and efficient vehicle fleet. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen, powered by private hydrogen fuel cells, aligns with the ministry’s commitment to greening its vehicle fleet.
The feedback from police officers and gendarmes involved in the trial is pivotal for future advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology. This firsthand experience will contribute to refining and enhancing the capabilities of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, making it even more suited to the unique demands of law enforcement agencies.
Brigadier General Philippe Mirabaud, commander of the Air Transport Gendarmerie, commends the hydrogen-powered vehicle’s autonomy and rapid refueling capacities. The successful trial at Paris-Orly airport provides valuable insights into the feasibility of integrating hydrogen technology into law enforcement fleets, particularly for operations requiring long-distance travel and quick turnaround times.
Lieutenant Poulard highlights the comfort and positive reception of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen by the soldiers at BGTA Paris-Orly. The experiment, seen as a fantastic opportunity, emphasizes the advantages of hydrogen-powered vehicles, including rapid refueling and minimal environmental impact.
With over 40 years of experience in hydrogen technology and 20 years in hydrogen fuel cell technology, the BMW Group is well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable mobility. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen, part of the pilot fleet launched in 2023, continues to undergo testing globally, showcasing its adaptability in various climatic conditions.
Vincent Salimon, Chairman of the BMW Group France Board of Directors, emphasizes technological neutrality as a driving force for transitioning to environmentally friendly modes of travel. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen, with its fuel cell system generating 125 kW/170 hp of power and a range of 504 km, emerges as a high-potential alternative for institutions aiming for carbon-free mobility.
