The new BMW X5 will feature five different powertrains, including one that many had almost written off. | Carscoops

      The innovative hydrogen fuel cell system will be produced at BMW's facility in Steyr, Austria.

      

      

      BMW‘s third-generation hydrogen powertrain is set to become available in a little over two years.

      The fifth-generation X5 will also be offered in petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric formats.

      Like other BMW vehicles, the upcoming X5 will feature the company's Neue Klasse design language.

      For several years, BMW has collaborated with Toyota on hydrogen powertrains, even as many traditional automakers have shifted their focus to hybrid and battery-electric vehicles, pulling back from hydrogen development. Although the hydrogen market is relatively small, the German manufacturer is pushing forward with its plans, announcing that its inaugural fuel cell vehicle will be available in 2028.

      BMW’s first hydrogen model will be a unique version of the fifth-generation X5 from the Neue Klasse and will be offered alongside petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric models. It is expected to have lower sales numbers compared to other versions, but may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who prefer not to choose a hybrid or electric SUV.

      Read: BMW’s New X5 To Offer Hydrogen Model Developed With Toyota

      The sales of the hydrogen X5 will be restricted to areas with the necessary refueling infrastructure, meaning its availability will differ by region. Nevertheless, BMW views hydrogen as a significant part of its lineup rather than a fleeting experiment.

      From Initial Tests to a Third Generation

      BMW’s first-generation hydrogen powertrain was introduced in 2014, featuring a special 5-Series model known as the 535iA, which was entirely supplied by Toyota. The current, second-generation powertrain was rolled out with the iX5 Hydrogen test fleet, utilizing cells from Toyota and a fuel cell system developed by BMW. The hydrogen X5 slated for production will utilize a new third-generation system.

      This new system occupies 25 percent less space than previous generations, with enhanced power density. Additionally, the powertrain’s flexibility allows for seamless integration into future vehicle architectures. BMW also promises improved range and higher output while reducing energy consumption.

      Progressing Toward Production

      Prototypes of the latest system are currently in development at BMW’s headquarters in Munich. When production starts in 2028, the complete fuel cell systems will be produced at the company's facility in Steyr, Austria.

      Visually, the fifth-generation X5 will join other BMW models in adopting the Neue Klasse design language, which has already been seen in the all-electric i3 3-Series and the second-generation iX3. Significant modifications will be made to the exterior, and the interior will also be newly designed, featuring the brand's new angled infotainment display and a panoramic screen stretching across the base of the windshield.

      Opening illustration by Josh Byrnes/Carscoops.