BMW iX5 Hydrogen enters real-world testing for series production

BMW has entered a new development phase for the iX5 Hydrogen, its first series-production vehicle equipped with a fuel-cell system. Prototypes are currently undergoing extensive real-world road testing to validate the integration of the third-generation fuel-cell system, which was co-developed with Toyota.

Testing focuses on the coordination between the fuel cell, high-voltage battery, electric motor, and the BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system. The vehicle aims for a driving range of up to 750 km (WLTP) and a refueling time of less than five minutes. Performance targets include an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds.

Development is supported by the HyPowerDrive project, receiving significant funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport and the Bavarian State Government. While prototype assembly continues at the Hydrogen Competence Centre in Munich, BMW is preparing its Plant Steyr in Austria for the eventual mass production of the fuel-cell systems.