Image: Drive
Image: Drive
AutoExec Summary
Hydrogen fuel-cell cars haven’t gained the same popularity as battery-electric vehicles, but BMW sees potential in the technology. We tested the latest BMW iX5 Hydrogen prototype in Australia to evaluate its feasibility.
The iX5 Hydrogen features a 125kW fuel-cell stack, a 170kW battery pack, and a combined power output of 295kW. It offers a driving range of 504km and can refuel in just 3–4 minutes. Despite challenges like high costs and limited refuelling infrastructure, BMW believes hydrogen vehicles can coexist with electric ones, particularly for long-distance and heavy-duty applications. If infrastructure develops, hydrogen cars could become a viable alternative in the future.
Brands mentioned: BMW, Tesla, Volkswagen, Toyota, Hyundai, Holden