BMW X5 will become BMW's first model equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell, with a range of 504 kilometers
JamesSep 08, 2025, 02:32 PM
[PCauto] BMW Group has officially confirmed its plan to start mass production of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in 2028. This decision is based on the results of over a decade of technical collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation. The third-generation fuel cell system will serve as the core powertrain for production models.
A 6 kg hydrogen tank enables 504 km of WLTP range
According to technical details disclosed by BMW Group, the new-generation fuel cell system has achieved significant breakthroughs compared to the second-generation system used in the current iX5 Hydrogen test fleet.
The system volume has been reduced by 25%, power density has been increased to 295 kW (401 hp), and a 6 kg hydrogen tank enables a WLTP range of 504 kilometers, with refueling taking just 3-4 minutes.
This system was jointly developed by BMW and Toyota. The fuel cell unit is supplied by Toyota, while BMW independently undertook the overall system integration and control technology.
On the production side, BMW has selected the Austria-based Steyr plant, known for its experience in multi-powertrain production, as the primary manufacturing base for the fuel cell system.
This factory is currently producing both electric motors and internal combustion engines, laying a solid foundation for the construction of hydrogen energy production lines by 2028.
Key component manufacturing is handled by the Landshut plant in Germany, including the BMW Energy Master control unit developed specifically for hydrogen energy systems, capable of managing energy distribution within a voltage range of 400-800V.
The Munich Technology Center is responsible for prototype development and industrialization validation. Global road tests under extreme environmental conditions (-40°C to 45°C) have already been completed.
The X5 will be BMW's first model equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell
The model plan indicates that the first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will be based on the next-generation X5 platform (internal code G65), as one of the powertrain options under the Neue Klasse architecture.
This model will be sold alongside the traditional fuel, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric versions of the X5, targeting regional markets with established hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
BMW has explicitly stated that hydrogen energy vehicles are a supplement to the existing product line rather than an independent series, a positioning that aligns with its "technology openness" strategy.
BMW has been working on hydrogen fuel technology for a long time
The development history of BMW's hydrogen energy technology can be traced back to the 1970s, undergoing multiple technological iterations such as liquid hydrogen internal combustion engine experiments and the Hydrogen 7 V12 flagship sedan.
After establishing a partnership with Toyota in 2014, BMW successively introduced test vehicles based on the 5 Series platform (535iA) and the current iX5 Hydrogen test fleet.
The mass production of the third-generation system signifies that hydrogen energy technology has officially transitioned from the experimental phase to industrial-scale production.
If any infringement occurs, please contact us for deletion
Trending News
Proton Saga Interior Review: Affordable Yet Stylish for Everyday Use
【PCauto】The Proton Saga has been a household name in Malaysia since 1985. Known for its affordable pricing and reliable performance, it remains a top choice for budget-conscious drivers. As an A-segment sedan, the Proton Saga delivers strong value across key areas like comfort, safety, and everyday practicality. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out with the family, the Proton Saga interior offers just enough space and features to keep things simple and efficient.
Honda Chief Engineer Goes Viral for Hairstyle, Formerly Led EV Dynamic Tuning
【PCauto】With a hairstyle that looks just like a character from a Japanese anime, Honda’s chief engineer Shotaro Odate has caught a lot of attention online. Back in May 2024, Japanese media first picked up on him because of his unusual look. Recently, Shotaro Odate has gone viral again, this time in China, where people are fascinated by his distinctive hairstyle and his role at Honda. With all the buzz, Honda China officially invited him to respond to the growing public interest on social media.
2026 Toyota Hilux Interior Unveiled, and It’s Giving Prado Vibes
【PCauto】Patent images and spec sheets of the 2026 Toyota Hilux have surfaced online, hinting at a major interior overhaul for the world’s best-selling pickup. While the new Hilux will stick with its proven mechanical platform, Toyota seems ready to shake things up inside the cabin. The refreshed Hilux is expected to hit Southeast Asian showrooms in the first half of 2026.
2025 Proton X50 launched for 5 days and has received 8,000 orders, with 999 units delivered
[PCauto] Malaysian automaker Proton officially launched the brand-new 2025 Proton X50 on July 24, 2025, gaining record-high market traction. This compact SUV achieved a record-breaking delivery of 999 units within just five days.
2025 Proton X50 Facelift Debuts with New 1.5L Four-Cylinder, Priced from RM89,800
【PCauto】Proton has officially unveiled the refreshed 2025 X50 compact SUV. The key change is a new 1.5L four-cylinder engine that replaces the previous three-cylinder across the entire lineup.
Popular Cars
Car Compare