by New Generation BMW X5: Giant Battery and Hydrogen Version
The new BMW X5 is almost ready for its official debut, which will take place this year. The German automaker has released fresh images of the camouflaged prototype and confirmed key technical specifications. Most impressive is the battery for the first electric iX5 — it will become the largest among all production BMW electric vehicles.
Platform and Technologies
Although the recently unveiled iX3 became the first model on the Neue Klasse architecture, the iX5 takes a different path. Like the i5 sedan, it is based on an updated version of the CLAR platform, allowing it to offer gasoline, hybrid, electric, and even hydrogen powertrains within a single model lineup.
Despite the multi-energy platform, the electric X5 receives the latest BMW technologies. The iX5 uses the sixth generation eDrive, an 800-volt electrical system, and cylindrical battery cells, like those in the Neue Klasse. Charging speed will reach 400 kW.
Record-Breaking Battery
The main news is the battery size. BMW confirmed that the iX5 60 xDrive will receive a 144 kWh (net) battery for North America and 141 kWh for Europe. This is the largest battery ever installed in a production BMW electric vehicle. A less powerful version with a smaller battery will arrive later.
The official range has not yet been announced, but the figures should be impressive. The smaller iX3 has 500 miles (805 km) on the WLTP cycle, so the iX5 60 should comfortably exceed 400 miles (644 km) according to documentation, and the real-world range could reach 350 miles (563 km), despite a curb weight of over 6600 lbs (3000 kg).
Engine Power
Powertrain details have also been revealed. Buyers of gasoline versions can choose the 3.0-liter X5 40 xDrive with 395 hp (400 PS) — 20 hp more than the current model. The X5 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid remains at 483 hp (490 PS). The new dual-motor electric iX5 60 xDrive produces 570 hp (578 PS / 425 kW).
BMW also confirmed that the first production hydrogen car in the company’s history will arrive in 2028 as the iX5 Hydrogen. The hydrogen SUV will use a new flat-tank system for maximum packaging efficiency, allowing it to be built on the same line as other X5 versions. A diesel version will also be available in Europe for skeptics of new energy technologies.
Design and Interior
Although the X5 and iX5 are not built on the Neue Klasse platform, they will feature the same design as the iX3 and i3, including integrated headlights and a kidney grille. Double wishbone front suspension is installed, and wheels can be up to 23 inches. Hybrids and electric vehicles will receive an optional adaptive system with air suspension, four-wheel steering, and active roll control.
Inside — a four-spoke steering wheel, Panoramic iDrive display, and a tablet touchscreen. We first saw this system on the iX3, then on the i3, and now it has been implemented in the updated 7 Series, and will soon appear in the updated 5 Series.
Thus, the new X5 becomes a versatile platform that combines traditional engines with advanced electric and hydrogen technologies. The record-breaking iX5 battery and 570 hp make it a serious competitor for the Porsche Cayenne Electric, while the hydrogen version opens up new prospects for eco-friendly transportation. At the same time, retaining gasoline and diesel engines demonstrates BMW’s pragmatic approach to different markets and customer preferences.
