BMW and Shell introduce the hydrogen refuelling station of the future

BMW Group subsidiary Designworks and Shell have collaborated in the development of an innovative hydrogen dispenser that will improve the refuelling experience. This concept is showcased at the Hannover Fair, in Germany.

Hydrogen dispenser models currently on the market are based on those designed for conventional fuels. To inspire a world of clean energy, Designworks created Oasis, a dispenser concept that departs from the “H” or “L” shaped fuel dispensers presently on the market. It introduces a new product typology with an “I” shaped, pillar-like design with a friendly appeal. Oasis takes inspiration from natural forms and elegantly rises upwards creating a beacon both from close up and from a distance.

The Shell dispenser design is clean and remarkably simple with all mechanical parts made invisible. When approaching the dispenser, the user will experience a light guidance system, a generous information screen and an innovative nozzle for refuelling. The light concept helps guide the overall flow of cars on the forecourt by providing precise and clearly visible information about the dispenser´s occupancy and the remaining fueling time. A concise graphical communication concept was developed for the interaction screen on the front of the dispenser, to provide clear and easily accessible information. It allows users to keep track of their refuelling time and price, request maps to check route details or dive deeper into the world of hydrogen.

For the refuelling nozzle, the design team created a new pick up and mount mechanism, which provides a highly intuitive way of removing and returning the nozzle. To make the refueling experience even more comfortable, a screen was integrated directly into the nozzle guiding the user through the refueling process step by step. Beyond offering an innovative refuelling experience, the new dispenser concept, with its clean design language and easy to use functionality, makes a clear statement about the future of hydrogen.

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About the author

Laurent Meillaud

Laurent Meillaud

Freelance automotive journalist and consultant, author as well, focused on technologies and new trends for more than 30 years, convinced that hydrogen is one of the energies for the future.

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