The new BMW X5 has entered its final test phase, completing calibration drives around BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA. This marks the first time a BMW production model will be introduced with a choice of five different drive system technologies. The first fully electric BMW iX5 will debut alongside a hydrogen-powered model set for 2028, followed by petrol and diesel variants with 48V mild hybrid technology.
The BMW X5 – A New Era of Driving Experience
The BMW X5 represents the fifth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), offering a range of powertrain options tailored to different driving preferences. The new model will be available in four variants: the 40 xDrive, 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid, 60 xDrive, and the upcoming iX5 Hydrogen. Each variant is designed to deliver performance, efficiency, and a unique driving experience.
The BMW iX5 – A World Premiere with New eDrive Technology
The first battery-electric BMW iX5 is based on the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, featuring a new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells and 800V technology. The iX5 60 xDrive boasts a usable energy content of 144 kWh in the USA and 141 kWh in the EU, making it the largest high-voltage battery in an all-electric BMW model to date. It is powered by one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear, working in tandem with BMW xDrive electric all-wheel drive.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen – A New Era for Fuel Cell Technology
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is the first ever hydrogen-powered production model from BMW, set to debut in 2028. It features a fuel cell system, the new BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system, and an innovative high-voltage battery. The third generation of the fuel cell system forms the basis for a particularly compact design as well as high power and efficiency. The flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure tanks made of a carbon-fibre reinforced composite, connected in parallel, integrated into a robust metal frame. This layout makes exceptionally efficient use of the space the system takes up in the vehicle; no room is lost inside the cabin. Another benefit is that models with fuel cell technology can be built on the same production line as other drive system types.
The Heart of Joy – Advanced Driving Technology
The new BMW X5 will offer a new dimension of driving experience courtesy of technology from the Neue Klasse – the Heart of Joy, featuring the BMW Dynamic Performance Control driving stack developed fully in-house. This high-performance control unit acts ten times faster than previous systems, enabling adjustments to the powertrain, brakes, steering sub-functions, charging and recuperation in milliseconds.
The result is remarkable agility, poise and precision. In the BMW iX5 and BMW iX5 Hydrogen, this technology also impresses with extremely smooth stopping maneuvers while increasing efficiency by recovering more energy under deceleration with regenerative braking.
In combustion-engined or plug-in hybrid models, the latest digital and highly interconnected driving dynamics systems ensure the car always makes optimum use of the available traction and delivers composed handling at all times. These systems include the standard-fitted tenth-generation transverse dynamics management system and near-actuator wheel slip limitation, both supported by precisely tuned chassis components.
The Wheels – Larger Rims with Up to 23 Inches
The wheels (larger rims with diameters of up to 23 inches can now be specified) and the standard mixed-size tyres further enhance comfort, stability and dynamism. The new BMW X5 comes as standard with adaptive suspension whose dampers are controlled electronically for each individual wheel, plus almost 50:50 weight distribution. The dampers can be continuously adjusted, enabling everything from a very comfortable ride through to sporty, dynamic handling. Adaptive Chassis Control Professional, which is available as an option for the all-electric BMW iX5 and the plug-in hybrid models, maximises dynamic prowess. It includes two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers, Integral Active Steering and active roll stabilisation.
Next-Generation Driver Assistance Systems
The new BMW X5 features innovative SAE Level 2 driver assistance systems and active safety functions from the Neue Klasse technology clusters. Customers can therefore look forward to significant upgrades and extended functionality, as well as BMW Symbiotic Drive. One example of these innovations is the optional Motorway and City Assistant, which includes Entry-2-Exit assistance on motorways and Address‑2‑Address assistance in urban areas.
The advanced Level 2 driver assistance systems from BMW are meticulously designed for seamless interaction between assistance tech and human driving habits. The aim here is not to attain the highest possible level of automation in every situation, but to provide a safe driver assistance experience that offers maximum benefit and remains controllable at all times. As a result, the driver always stays involved as human and artificial intelligence interact. With driver assistance systems active, this means the driver can accelerate, steer and brake as required, without instantly deactivating the assistance system in the process. The straightforward operating logic and clear displays of BMW Panoramic iDrive ensure that assisted driving is intuitive and controllable at all times, enabling safe use of the highest SAE Level 2 automation.
The new BMW X5 will be the first BMW production model to be introduced onto the market with a choice of five different drive system technologies.
We’re looking forward to bringing you more on this SAV
Source: BMW Group
