New BMW iX5 Hydrogen Brings Its Fuel Cells To Munich

BMW presented the iX5 Hydrogen at the Munich Motor Show today featuring the company’s fifth-generation electric drive tech. This story has been updated with live images of the prototype model that will be offered for test drives at the show.

Previewed by the BMW i Hydrogen NEXT concept, the iX5 Hydrogen is an eco-friendly crossover that will be used for testing and demonstration purposes starting next year.

Looking instantly recognizable, the iX5 Hydrogen follows in the footsteps of the standard model but features a unique front end with BMW i Blue accents, distinctive mesh inserts and 3D printed components. The model also sports a unique rear bumper and diffuser as well as “hydrogen fuel cell” badging. They’re joined by aerodynamic 22-inch wheels, which are wrapped in sustainably produced tires made of natural rubber and rayon.

Also Read: BMW Rolls Out X5 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Prototype Ahead Of 2022 Launch

BMW didn’t say much about the interior, but it largely carries over from the standard model. However, we can see a handful of special touches including blue accents and “hydrogen fuel cell” badging.

Under the hood, there’s a fuel cell powertrain that is fed by two 700-bar tanks which are constructed out of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic. They hold nearly 13.2 lbs (6 kg) of hydrogen and can be refilled in three to four minutes.

BMW didn’t go into many other details, but confirmed the iX5 Hydrogen has a fifth-generation electric motor similar to the one found in the iX. It produces up to 369 hp (275 kW / 374 PS).

While the iX5 Hydrogen is technically just a prototype, BMW noted they could potentially put hydrogen fuel cell models into series production in the future. These would complement their existing electric vehicles, but the company acknowledged there needs to be a robust hydrogen refueling infrastructure for fuel cell vehicles to reach their full potential.

For now, BMW plans to put the iX5 Hydrogen into a small series production run next year.