BMW Hydrogen 7
The Bavarian Motor Works or BMW is the world-renowned German manufacturer
of powerful super cars, elegant sedans and even high-end motorcycles.
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Due to current demand for zero carbon dioxide
emission vehicles, the company is shifting focus on the development
of liquid hydrogen as a viable source of energy. Hydrogen
was chosen as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels
because the earth has an infinite supply of this element.
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BMW is the first Car Company that has successfully introduced a
car that uses hydrogen as fuel in Europe. Though the process of
deriving hydrogen from say fossil fuel is very expensive, this somehow
launched the BMW Hydrogen 7 that uses a hydrogen combustion engine
hoping that they could develop a system that could cheaply extract
hydrogen in large quantities. This technology should be exploited
because the source is not only abundant and free but is likewise
clean since it does not contribute to carbon dioxide emissions.
The BMW Hydrogen 7
The BMW Hydrogen 7 is powered by a 6.0 liter, 12-cylinder engine
that harnesses both gasoline and liquid hydrogen as a fuel source
through a power unit using the Valvetronic Technology. This vehicle
employs a dual mode transfer power unit that allows the engine to
burn either gasoline or hydrogen in the same cylinder.
This is very convenient during long distance travels because in
case of hydrogen shortage, premium gasoline may be supplied in its
place. In fact, the petrol supply is good for 130 miles while that
of hydrogen covers 125 miles.
The BMW Hydrogen 7 is outfitted with a special engine management
and fuel supply system as well as 2 different fuel tanks. The hydrogen
tank is able to hold a volume of about 170 liters while the conventional
gasoline tank can only accommodate about 74 liters. In order to
ensure that the stored liquid hydrogen retains a temperature of
253 degrees Fahrenheit, the hydrogen tank likewise functions as
an insulator.
It has double walls and several layers of insulating materials
in between spaces; thus, filling up the vehicle with liquid hydrogen
is very easy, clean, and safe task. The driver only needs to press
a button near the steering wheel to open and close the tank filler
flap and the filling process takes only about 8 minutes.
Like any other BMW vehicle, the Hydrogen 7 is certified to provide
exceptional amenities for comfort. It has automatic soft close function
doors, laminated climate comfort glass, remote controlled auxiliary
heater, adjustable electric seat complete with memory function,
and high-end automatic airconditioning and high-beam assistant from
BMW & Apos.
Moreover, the vehicle sports additional features to provide on-board
entertainment to riders such as a television with a rear monitor
and a DVB-T reception, CD and DVD charger, telematics services such
as the BMW Assist and Online, full preparation for BMW Teleservice,
smoker package, front and rear cupholders and a separate rear car
telephone.
Unique to the BMW Hydrogen 7 are the head and side airbags- both
at the front and rear, automatic anti-dazzle controlled interior
and exterior mirrors, BMW & Apos' Park and Distance Control
and navigation system, voice recognition that controls the navigation
system, telephone, and audio units, BMW Online, Night Vision, and
Adaptive Headlights, rain sensor, lumbar supports for both the driver
and front passenger, and different Apos' equipment.
If you are one of those priming for a luxurious yet environment
friendly car, then the BMW Hydrogen 7 is the right car for you.
If you got the chance, drive one now!
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