BMW has announced it is planning to launch a fuel cell electric version of its X5 midsize SUV.

The iX5 Hydrogen is expected to launch in 2028.

With it, the X5 will be available with five different drivetrain versions, including internal combustion engine models powered by gasoline and diesel, an electrified plug-in hybrid version, and a pair of fully electric iX5 versions, one a battery-electric vehicle and the other the newly announced hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle.

That’s five variants globally; it’s unclear if all versions would be available in Canada.

“By launching the new BMW X5 with a choice of five drive system variants, we are once again demonstrating our leading position as a technology pioneer,” says Joachim Post, BMW AG board member, in a news release. “Hydrogen has an essential part to play in global decarbonization, which is why we are committed to driving the technology forward.”

BMW said product diversity is a key to its success, and the hydrogen fuel cell technology will help meet the varying demands and needs of customers worldwide.

Next-gen fuel cell system

The iX5 Hydrogen will be powered by the automaker’s third-generation fuel cell system, which BMW is developing in collaboration with Toyota.

BMW said the next-gen fuel cell system features a more compact design that is also more powerful and efficient, all of which allow future models to have increased range and power, while reducing energy usage.

---