Next-Gen BMW X5 Debuts with Five Drive Options Including Electric and Hydrogen
The fifth-generation BMW X5 becomes the brand's first model to offer five drivetrain choices, from petrol to hydrogen fuel cell.
- 845 km (525 miles)
- 750 km (466 miles)
- 191 million EUR
What Happened
The new BMW X5 enters its fifth generation, offering five drive system types for the first time: petrol, diesel (both with 48V mild hybrid), plug-in hybrid, all-electric (BMW iX5), and hydrogen fuel cell (BMW iX5 Hydrogen). It incorporates design and technologies from the Neue Klasse, including the new Panoramic iDrive display and BMW Operating System X.
845 kmkm (525 miles)
Longest range for the all-electric version, enabled by sixth-gen eDrive with 800V technology and new cylindrical cells.
Series production starts at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg (USA).
Market launch of first variants (petrol, diesel, mild hybrid).
Market launch of all-electric and plug-in hybrid versions.
“With its imposing presence and flawless symbiosis of comfort and driving pleasure, the BMW X5 became a global bestseller. And now the latest generation also benefits from the technologies in the Neue Klasse and the widest possible range of drive systems. As a result, I’m sure the new BMW X5 will set the benchmark in its class once again and write the next chapter in its success story.”
Why this matters
The new X5 showcases BMW's commitment to offering diverse powertrain options, from electrified to hydrogen, while leveraging Neue Klasse technology for design and digital experience.
Terms in This Story
- Neue Klasse
- BMW's next-generation vehicle architecture focused on electric mobility, digitalization, and design.
- Plug-in hybrid
- A vehicle with both a combustion engine and an electric motor that can be charged from an external power source.
- Fuel cell
- A device that generates electricity from hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water vapor as emission.
- 800V technology
- An electrical system architecture that enables faster charging and higher efficiency in electric vehicles.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.