2024 BMW iX5 Hydrogen G05 passes winter testing

The G05 BMW iX5 Hydrogen is undergoing winter testing in the Arctic Circle, confirming its hydrogen fuel cell powertrain operates even in extreme temperatures. A limited production run will begin later in 2022.

Despite temperatures dipping down to minus 20 degrees Celsius, the iX5 Hydrogen’s power buffer battery, hydrogen tanks, central vehicle control unit and fuel cell system itself all proved reliable. It’s the latest in a line of tests, including long-distance and weather testing.

According to BMW’s press release, performance of the SUV was unaffected by the cold conditions, range is ‘unrestricted’ and ‘it only takes three to four minutes to fill up the hydrogen tanks, even in the frostiest of conditions.’ BMW’s Hydrogen boss, Jurgen Guldner, said: “The hydrogen fuel cell drive combines the best of both drive worlds: the locally emission-free mobility of an electric vehicle and the unrestricted suitability for everyday use, including short refuelling stops, that we are all familiar with from models with combustion engines.”

The manufacturer also reiterated the need for a nationwide supply infrastructure for hydrogen fuel, and its support for the EU Commission’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation for developing hydrogen filling stations and the electric charging infrastructure in parallel.

The iX5 Hydrogen uses dual electric motors with a combined 369bhp, powered by a buffer battery which is charged by the hydrogen fuel cell. Developed in partnership with Toyota, the fuel cell can generate up to 125kW of energy and it’s fed by two 700-bar hydrogen tanks. These are located in the transmission tunnel and can hold up to 6kgs of hydrogen.

Blue trim accents – some of which are 3D printed – help the iX5 Hydrogen stand out, along with drag-reducing 22-inch alloy wheels. The latter are wrapped in tyres created from sustainable materials.