The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will debut at the 2021 Munich Motor Show. An SUV created on the basis of the BMW X5 and powered by a hydrogen fuel cell system. BMW is betting heavily on hydrogen as an alternative to battery electric cars.
BMW is very committed to the hydrogen fuel cell. This colossus of the automotive industry envisions a future in which hydrogen coexists with battery electric cars. In recent times it has launched various projects related to this field and the first fruit of this work is already here. Its about new BMW iX5 Hydrogen.
The BMW i Hydrogen NEXT, a concept model, was unveiled two years ago. Now, the anticipated production version will debut at the 2021 Munich Motor Show. The development process is not over yet. However, BMW emphasizes that those attending this event will have the possibility of enjoying the experience of traveling aboard a Hydrogen SUV. Several copies of the iX5 Hydrogen will be exhibited.
The design of the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen
Just take a quick look at the images that illustrate this article to discover that this is a modified X5. In order to enhance its status as a zero-emission vehicle, BMW has equipped the iX5 Hydrogen with a range of distinguishing details and aesthetic features. Various specific design elements have been created using 3D printing.
The inner rim of the kidney grille so characteristic of BMW models is painted in BMW i Blue. The inserts on the 22-inch aero wheels and accessories on the outside of the rear apron are also finished in said blue. The door sill plates and the instrument panel cover trim feature a badge that reads ‘Hydrogen Fuel Cell’.
On the other hand, the new iX5 Hydrogen has a rear apron, a rear diffuser and mesh inserts that cover the air intakes, specifically designed. Another noteworthy detail is the Pirelli tires as they are sustainably produced using natural rubber and rayon.
A hydrogen SUV developed on the basis of the BMW X5
This small series of the iX5 Hydrogen, developed on the basis of the BMW X5, will be used for demonstration and testing purposes from the end of next year. The main key to this vehicle is found in its guts. The hydrogen fuel cell system. A technology that the BMW Group has been working on and perfecting in recent years.
The entry into the scene of this model marks the opening of the BMW brand to offer, in the near future, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as an alternative to battery electric cars.
The new iX5 Hydrogen is powered by a fuel cell system with fifth-generation BMW eDrive. The powertrain uses hydrogen as fuel, converting it into electricity, generating electrical power of up to 125 kW (170 hp). The electric motor in charge of moving the vehicle was developed from the eDrive technology that we also find in the BMW iX. The system provides a power of 275 kW (374 hp).
The Hydrogen that powers the fuel cell system is stored in two tanks 700 bars made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic that together contain almost six kilograms of hydrogen.