The new BMW X5 is the brand’s first model to offer a hydrogen fuel cell option alongside four other drivetrain variants. The brand moved towards full production after successfully completing trials with a global pilot fleet, the company announced in a press release.
The new BMW X5 is looking to remain a compact, powerful option with improved range and reduced energy consumption. From 2018, the iX5 Hydrogen will be BMW's first hydrogen model, developed in collaboration with Toyota. Toyota is a significant partner because they have spearheaded the push to create hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Their Mirai series are the most popular HFC cars on the market.
BMW iX5 Hydrogen – Driving pleasure meets fuel cell technology.
BMW began making steps toward widespread production with road rests in over 20 countries in 2023. BMW claims these tests covered nearly one million kilometers of testing in a wide variety of climate conditions. For a global launch this type of scalability in different areas will be a major benefit, assuming the iX5 production models line up with their claims.
Vice President Hydrogen Vehicles BMW Group Michael Rath said, "The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will be a true BMW – pioneering in its class and delivering BMW’s typical driving pleasure."
What are the other drivetrain options?
The iX5 hydrogen model will be part of the fifth-generation X5 lineup and will also include:
- Petrol Engine
- Diesel Engine
- Plug-in Hybrid
- Battery Electric Vehicle
How much is a BMW X5?
At present, the BMW X5 price has not been released for its hydrogen model, leaving speculations open for now. Expect more detailed information, including pricing closer to the vehicle launch date in 2028.
While the iX5’s pricing remains undisclosed, the current 2025 BMW X5 starts at about $66,695 for the base sDrive40i while higher performance options like X5 M60i go above $80,000.
Learn more about hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and how they works here.