The BMW Group is adopting a new, innovative hydrogen tank technology for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, symbolizing the manufacturer’s technology-neutral approach and offering five different drive systems in one single model.
The new arrangement and size of the tanks enable a higher range of up to 750 km. The new ‘BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage’ system offers the added advantage of making exceptionally efficient use of the space it occupies in the vehicle and is compatible with the Gen6 high-voltage battery, meaning that no room is lost inside the cabin.
Models with fuel cell technology can therefore be built on the same production line as those with other drive system types. The 700-bar high-pressure hydrogen tanks additionally benefit from the mechanical protection provided by the vehicle structure, further increasing safety.
Smart storage
“Our new storage concept allows us to fit the hydrogen drive system into the new X5 precisely and in a way that saves space,” says Dr. Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “Think of it as installation Tetris: every customer gets the drive system best suited to their needs and a true BMW X5 with no compromises. This is technology openness and the art of engineering, just the way we developers love them!”
The new flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure tanks made of carbon-fiber-reinforced composite, connected in parallel and integrated into a robust metal frame. What makes the design special is that, instead of individual pressure vessels, there are several chambers connected to form an enclosed unit.
This unit is controlled by a central main valve. In this way, the optimized storage concept enables the BMW iX5 Hydrogen to achieve a greater range. This development alone has led to several patent applications filed by the BMW Group.
The system can store at least 7 kilograms of hydrogen and can be filled from empty in under five minutes. “As is customary for BMW hydrogen models, refueling is safe, clean, and fast,” BMW adds.
BMW Hydrogen strategy
“The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology forms part of the powertrain. It combines with the fuel cell system and an innovative high-voltage battery to deliver the driving pleasure for which BMW is renowned,” promises the manufacturer.
The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen also benefits from the new Heart of Joy drivetrain and chassis control software, as well as BMW Dynamic Performance Control. It is also equipped with the latest-generation Gen3 fuel cell technology, which is more efficient and powerful than previous generations.
A technology-open approach and a diverse product portfolio remain key success factors for the BMW Group. By integrating fuel cell technology into the new BMW X5 series, the company is strategically expanding its production line-up and making hydrogen technology available to its customers.
“Hydrogen enables electric driving with an even longer range and fast refueling, diversifies energy sources, and reduces dependence on a single infrastructure or a single chain of raw materials,” BMW points out.
Five different drive system variants
Thanks to the new BMW X5’s highly flexible architecture, five different drive system variants can be built to suit customer requirements: from battery-electric and plug-in hybrid systems to highly efficient conventional drive systems to hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Synergies in production are optimized. Uniform geometrical specifications for energy storage systems and drive components reduce technical complexity and lower production costs.
“At the same time, the flexible platform increases manufacturing robustness, facilitates the integration of new technologies, and maximizes scalability. It paves the way for the widespread introduction of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen into the BMW Group’s production network in 2028,” BMW proudly concludes.
