BMW has begun prototype testing of the next-generation iX5 Hydrogen, confirming the fuel cell SUV remains on track for market launch in 2028. The vehicle is based on the fifth-generation X5 platform (internally G65), which debuted in June with five powertrain variants: the battery-electric iX5, petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid X5 models arriving in 2027, and the hydrogen version following a year later. Testing is currently underway at BMW's Aschheim facility near Munich, covering integration of the fuel cell system, high-voltage battery and electric drivetrain.
In parallel, BMW has started a new prototype build phase for its third-generation fuel cell system at the Hydrogen Competence Centre in Munich. Industrialisation planning for series production of the fuel cell system is underway at the Steyr engine plant in Austria, while Landshut has already begun pre-series production of the "Energy Master" control unit that manages the hydrogen powertrain.
Development targets call for performance matching the electric iX5, including sub-five-second 0–100 km/h acceleration, alongside a stated range goal of 750 km. BMW's hydrogen programme has drawn €273 million in German federal and Bavarian state funding through the HyPowerDrive project, covering development and industrialisation of the fuel cell electric powertrain intended for the 2028 iX5 Hydrogen.
Notably, the 750 km hydrogen range target is comparable to what the 141 kWh battery in the electric iX5 variant is expected to deliver, and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure remains far more limited than EV charging networks — leaving open questions about the commercial case for the fuel cell variant despite BMW's continued multi-powertrain strategy.
Source: electrive.com — read the original article