BMW is backing hydrogen: Global trials for the iX5 Hydrogen begin

BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse stands next to the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicle

BMW Group is stepping into the future with the launch of its BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards sustainable mobility.

This year, a fleet of under 100 hydrogen-powered vehicles have begun real-world testing and demonstrations globally. If these trials prove successful, BMW plans to put these innovative vehicles into production by the end of the decade.

Innovative technology

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines a hydrogen fuel cell system with an electric motor, delivering an impressive maximum output of 401 hp.

It features two 700-bar carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) tanks that hold almost six kilograms of hydrogen, providing a range of up to 504 km (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

Refuelling takes just three to four minutes, making it as convenient as petrol or diesel.

BMW iX5 hydrogen fuel cell car parked at hydrogen filling station Germany — BMW iX5 hydrogen fuel cell car at a CBM.tech hydrogen filling station in Germany

Advanced engineering

The iX5 Hydrogen showcases BMW’s cutting-edge development in hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Developed in partnership with Toyota Motor Corporation, the fuel cells generate a continuous output of 170 hp, supplemented by a specially-developed battery providing an extra power boost when needed.

Global trials

The pilot fleet is being deployed internationally, providing valuable insights and feedback.

Recently, a group of journalists in Australia had the opportunity to test drive the iX5 Hydrogen.

Their general impressions were highly positive, highlighting the vehicle’s brisk performance, impressive range and the convenience of quick refuelling.

Towards a sustainable future

BMW chairman Oliver Lipse said: “Hydrogen is a versatile energy source that has a key role to play in the energy transition process and therefore in climate protection.

“After all, it is one of the most efficient ways of storing and transporting renewable energies.

“We should use this potential to also accelerate the transformation of the mobility sector.

“Hydrogen is the missing piece in the jigsaw when it comes to emission-free mobility. One technology on its own will not be enough to enable climate-neutral mobility worldwide.”