Overview
- This week BMW advanced the iX5 Hydrogen programme by running prototypes in demanding real‑world tests while Plant Steyr in Austria installs test benches and begins staff training for series fuel‑cell work.
- The car aims to match EV drivability with fast refuelling and long range, targeting 0–100 km/h in under five seconds, roughly 750 km WLTP range, and refills in less than five minutes using seven high‑pressure carbon‑fibre tanks holding up to 7 kg of hydrogen.
- BMW is assembling a third‑generation fuel‑cell system co‑developed with Toyota at its Munich Hydrogen Competence Centre, with additional components produced in Landshut and prototype assembly used to transfer know‑how to Steyr.
- The industrialisation push is backed by significant public support, including €191 million from the federal HyPowerDrive programme and €82 million from the state of Bavaria to lower production risk and speed readiness.
- Broad consumer availability is not expected before 2028 in most markets because the vehicle’s commercial success depends on affordable green hydrogen and a wider public refuelling network, which will shape where BMW sells the model.