A hydrogen-powered version of the BMW X5 is expected to arrive in 2028, with the powertrain being developed in collaboration with Toyota.
Given Toyota’s extensive experience with hydrogen technology, this partnership aligns with BMW’s long-standing interest in fuel cell vehicles. The key question remains whether this effort will gain traction in the market.
Next-Generation X5 Plans
Changes to the X5 lineup extend beyond hydrogen technology, as BMW is set to implement various updates across the model range. According to Autocar, both the gas-powered X5 and the iX5 electric variant will be built on an updated version of the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform.
Consumer demand continues to support gasoline models, making it necessary to retain internal combustion options alongside electrified alternatives.
Meanwhile, the iX5 is expected to introduce enhanced battery technology featuring increased energy density and the potential inclusion of an 800-volt electrical system. This improvement would lead to faster charging times and other refinements in performance.
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Adjustments to the vehicle’s size will accompany these technological changes. A newly designed battery pack will require an extended wheelbase, pushing the X5’s total length beyond 16 feet for the first time. This increase in size brings it closer to BMW’s iX, which is also set to undergo a refresh in 2028.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Hydrogen X5
The Autocar report offers minimal details regarding the hydrogen-powered iX5 beyond confirming its planned arrival in 2028. This model is expected to differ from the hydrogen-powered prototype previously showcased, which was developed for a test fleet to evaluate fuel cell technology in an SUV format.
The earlier iteration featured a 396-horsepower drivetrain and stored six kilograms of hydrogen across two tanks, delivering a WLTP-rated range of 313 miles.
While no major technological advancements have been confirmed, the larger dimensions of the upcoming iX5 might allow for expanded hydrogen storage, potentially increasing driving range.
Challenges in Promoting Hydrogen Vehicles
BMW’s greatest hurdle may not be the engineering behind its hydrogen-powered SUV but rather persuading consumers to embrace it.
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In the U.S., public awareness of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles remains limited, largely associated with niche models like Toyota’s Mirai, which has struggled with demand and often requires discounts to attract buyers.
Additionally, hydrogen refueling infrastructure outside major metropolitan areas in California is sparse, making long-term adoption a challenge.
Much like the early days of electric vehicles, BMW will need to focus on appealing to a small group of early adopters before broader market acceptance can be achieved. Whether the automaker succeeds will become clear when the hydrogen-powered X5 officially launches in 2028.