BMW confirms hydrogen-powered iX5 Hydrogen for 2028 production

BMW announced it will expand drivetrain options for the next-generation BMW X5, introducing five available powertrains in a single model range. The lineup will include gasoline, diesel (outside the United States), plug-in hybrid, battery electric, and a hydrogen fuel cell system. The hydrogen-powered variant, named the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, will become the brand’s first series-produced hydrogen model when it launches in 2028.

The announcement follows the completion of global testing of BMW’s hydrogen pilot fleet. The iX5 Hydrogen will use BMW’s third-generation fuel cell system, developed in partnership with Toyota. The system has been designed to provide improved efficiency, greater power density, and a more compact size compared with previous versions. BMW stated that the new design increases range and reduces energy consumption.

BMW described its technology-open strategy as central to its long-term business plan, enabling flexibility in meeting different global market needs. The company highlighted that by offering both battery electric and hydrogen drivetrains, it intends to maintain flexibility while supporting decarbonization efforts.

The automaker also announced progress on the HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative, an alliance with industry and institutional partners to expand hydrogen ecosystems. HyMoS focuses on promoting hydrogen refueling networks and pooling demand from passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, and buses. Pilot projects are underway in Germany and France, with potential for expansion into additional metropolitan areas and countries.