BMW announced plans to produce the new X5 with five drivetrain technologies: battery electric, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, diesel (outside the U.S.), and hydrogen fuel cell.

The move is part of the company’s “technology-open” strategy, which emphasizes offering multiple powertrain options to meet varying customer needs globally.

Leadership Perspective

“Launching the X5 with five drivetrain variants highlights our ongoing commitment to diverse technologies,” said Joachim Post, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development. “Hydrogen will play an important role in decarbonization, and we are continuing to invest in advancing this technology.”

Flexible Manufacturing

BMW said its manufacturing structures allow multiple drivetrains to be integrated efficiently across development, purchasing, and production. Beginning in 2028, the brand will offer two types of electric drivetrains: battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell.

BMW iX5 Hydrogen

Following global pilot testing, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen will enter production as the brand’s first hydrogen-powered series model.

“The iX5 Hydrogen will deliver typical BMW driving performance while introducing hydrogen technology to the lineup,” said Michael Rath, vice president, Hydrogen Vehicles BMW Group.

The vehicle uses BMW’s third-generation fuel cell system, developed with Toyota Motor Corporation. The system is designed to improve efficiency and range while reducing energy consumption.

Benefits of Hydrogen Technology

BMW noted that hydrogen can serve as a storage medium for renewable energy, balancing supply and demand and supporting energy grid stability. The automaker said hydrogen is an effective complement to battery-electric vehicles in applications where batteries may not be optimal.

HyMoS Initiative

Alongside the launch of the iX5 Hydrogen, BMW is supporting the HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative, aimed at developing hydrogen ecosystems and refueling networks.

The program is designed to pool demand from trucks, buses, and passenger cars to increase station utilization and economic viability. Initial pilot programs are underway in Germany and France, with potential expansion to other markets.