Picture by CAR magazine (UK)
The BMW e-Mini was around before the first Tesla (Roadster).
In 2009, Tesla produced its 500 electric Roadsters. But BMW launched the first 500 e-Minis in America as early as 2008. BMW was thus the earlier Gamechanger and not Tesla! Mini E: a thoroughly developed car ,
The Mini E was an electric demo car, part of BMW Project i. Followed by a similar trial with the BMW ActiveE. Then came the BMW i3 as an urban electric vehicle, which went into mass production in 2013. So BMW, a real trendsetter.
BMW: Hydrogen (e-fuel cell) with Toyota
Picture by BMW
Meanwhile, BMW has announced an intensive cooperation with Toyota to be ready together for hydrogen e-fuel technology. Toyota, the first volume brand with much success in hybrids and hydrogens (Mirai), and BMW with actually the first electric cars.
It is striking that successful companies like BMW and Toyota, both purified in hybrids and EVs, are now betting together on hydrogen. As always, they have prepared well and are at the forefront of new technological opportunities.
By the way, Hyundai also still believes in hydrogen with e-fuels.In addition, of course, internal combustion hydrogen engines are coming on strong (Renault, Hyvia, but also all truck manufacturers).Thus, these smart concerns are betting on two horses. Hydrogen can also offer many advantages. If the energy market turns out to be ready for it, at least BMW, Toyota and Hyundai will be frontrunners. And then Tesla and the Chinese brands will be far behind. Interesting future hear within e-mobility!