BMW's hydrogen-powered 7-Series is caught testing in Germany

The car is familiar - but what's that in the boot? Last week, Auto Express put Mazda's hydrogen-powered RX-8 coupé to the test - and now, BMW's 7-Series appears set to follow in the Japanese machine's wheel tracks.

A concept version of the German firm's zero-emission CleanEnergy car has already debuted, but our spies spotted this production variant being worked on and tested in Germany.

The model's huge hydrogen tank fills the vast load area, and is the tell-tale sign that this is no ordinary 7. Under the bonnet, the clever V12 engine is able to run on both petrol and hydrogen, and switches automatically between tanks when one or other hits empty. This powerplant is a development of the 231bhp 6.0-litre 12-cylinder unveiled at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show.


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vcowman - 9/8/2006 11:06:31 AM

+1 Boost

*drool* hydrogen cars are the future folks.

BMW530i - 9/8/2006 5:42:56 PM

+1 Boost

Eh...Will, BMW had a V12-hydrogen powered 7-Series in the last generation which was a testbed for hydrogen power. We're talking 1997-1998 here.

Rupert - 9/8/2006 7:25:14 PM

+2 Boost

bmw have has these for years.
although note the lack of a boot in this car.

EvoAudi - 9/8/2006 7:29:24 PM

+1 Boost

won't the 7-series be redisigned by the time hydrogen cars will be in use

PlanoA4 - 9/9/2006 11:07:47 AM

+2 Boost

Will- Actually Audi and Mercedes have had hydrogen for a while too. That appears to be the next step beyond diesels and hybrids