750 km on a Single Hydrogen Charge: BMW to Mass-Produce iX5 Hydrogen in 2028

BMW Group Unveils Innovative Hydrogen Storage Technology
Five Powertrains Available in a Single X5 Model

On April 9, BMW Group announced that it will introduce next-generation hydrogen storage technology through the 'BMW iX5 Hydrogen', offering a significant leap in efficiency and practicality.

The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology, applied to hydrogen fuel cell models, features a flat design for the tank, optimizing both structure and placement. This enables a single hydrogen charge to deliver a driving range of up to 750 km, while minimizing the unnecessary space previously taken up by cylindrical tanks, thereby preserving the vehicle's interior space without any loss.

BMW hydrogen flat storage view. BMW Korea

It is fully compatible with the sixth-generation (Gen6) BMW eDrive high-voltage battery and, beyond fuel cell models, allows for flexible manufacturing by enabling mixed production of pure electric, plug-in hybrid, and internal combustion engine vehicles on the same line. The 700-bar high-pressure tank is located within the vehicle's structural frame to provide enhanced protection against external impacts, further increasing safety.

The new hydrogen storage technology integrates seven high-pressure tanks made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic, connecting them in parallel into a single robust frame. Instead of using individual pressure vessels, multiple chambers are configured as a single sealed unit, controlled by a central main valve. The system stores at least 7 kg of hydrogen, and even when empty, can be fully recharged in about five minutes, offering optimal convenience even for users accustomed to internal combustion engine vehicles.

The newly introduced BMW X5 can accommodate a total of five different powertrains, including internal combustion, pure electric, and plug-in hybrid models. The hydrogen fuel cell model, BMW iX5 Hydrogen, is set to enter mass production starting in 2028. Through this initiative, BMW aims to lead the era of sustainable mobility while continuing to embody the brand's core value of 'the joy of driving.'

Joachim Post, Head of Development at BMW Group, stated, "The new hydrogen storage system perfectly exemplifies BMW's technology-open approach and engineering excellence. With this innovation, we have not only achieved Tetris-like efficient space utilization but have also created the uncompromising BMW X5, capable of supporting a variety of drive systems to meet customer demands."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.