BMW Group: The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

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01.07.2026

10 MIN

The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen blends signature BMW driving dynamics with the power of a hydrogen drive. With its full xDrive, a range of up to 750 km (WLTP)*, a refuelling time of under five minutes and the full M Sport package, it delivers the performance of a true BMW X5. It also offers a host of additional practical features, such as towing capacity.

Josef Hochreiter, Head of Hydrogen Vehicles at the BMW Group:

“We have a clear vision for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen: it is going to be a true BMW – engineered for sheer driving pleasure. The perfectly balanced overall system will be crucial, being designed for superior driving dynamics.”

Range of up to 750 km* enabled by the BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage

technology and the third-generation fuel cell system.

The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen is built on the third-generation fuel cell system. Jointly developed by the BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation, this latest iteration is more powerful and efficient than its predecessor and is 25 percent more compact.

Improved efficiency and the new BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system increase the range significantly, offering up to 750 km (WLTP)*.

BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage:

Efficient integration without compromising cabin space.

The flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure fuel tanks made of carbon fibre-reinforced composite. They are connected in parallel and integrated into a robust metal frame. Instead of individual pressure vessels, the arrangement uses multiple chambers that are combined into a single enclosed unit, which is controlled via a central main valve. The optimised storage concept enables the BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s extensive range and stores at least seven kilograms of hydrogen. Refuelling takes less than five minutes.

The innovative tank system also makes exceptionally efficient use of installation space and is fully compatible with the Gen6 high-voltage battery. This ensures that cabin space remains uncompromised, while also allowing the hydrogen model to be manufactured alongside other drive types, on the same production line. In addition, the 700-bar high-pressure hydrogen tanks benefit from the structural protection of the vehicle, further enhancing safety.

All-wheel drive makes hydrogen debut.

The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage and the third-generation fuel cell system are complemented by an innovative high-voltage battery delivering BMW’s trademark sheer driving pleasure.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen also features the latest drive and chassis control software, known as the Heart of Joy, along with BMW Dynamic Performance Control. As the first fuel cell vehicle to incorporate BMW’s electric all-wheel drive system, xDrive, it is ready to handle any terrain.

Design concept inspired by water movements.

Leading up to its market launch, the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will feature the innovative BMW Hydrogen design concept .

Inspired by the dynamic movement of water, its graphics convey a sense of lightness while expressing forward momentum. Flowing lines underscore the dynamism of the vehicle and lead the eye from front to rear.

The BMW hydrogen strategy.

A technology-open approach and a diverse product portfolio are key to the BMW Group’s success. The introduction of fuel cell technology into the new BMW X5 series will bring a new form of drive to the product range, enabling customers to benefit from hydrogen.

Hydrogen combines electric driving with extensive range and fast refuelling. It also represents an additional energy source, helping reduce dependency on any single infrastructure or raw material supply chain.

FAQs: BMW Group hydrogen

fuel cell technology.

How is the BMW Group integrating hydrogen into its product range?

With testing of the global pilot fleet successfully completed, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is set to become the first hydrogen-powered model to enter series production. The forthcoming BMW X5 range will then offer customers a choice of drive technologies: battery electric, plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel – and, at a later stage, hydrogen fuel cell.

How does a fuel cell system work?

The fuel cell is where hydrogen from the tanks reacts with oxygen from the air in an electrochemical process, producing electricity to power the motor and supply energy to the vehicle.

The new BMW iX5 features the third-generation fuel cell system, jointly developed by the BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation. The system is not only compact but also more powerful and efficient.

Where is the fuel cell system manufactured?

Series production of fuel cell systems will take place at BMW Group Plant Steyr, which is currently preparing to manufacture the BMW Group’s third-generation hydrogen drive. The first prototypes are being produced at dedicated centres of excellence in Munich and Steyr, while the technology centre in Landshut supplies further components for the drive system.

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