Previewing the BMW iX5 FCV

The future is now. The BMW iX5 FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle), the visionary offshoot of the BMW X5, is a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicle (FCV) heralding the next step in the evolution of clean energy for cars. BMW of Sherman Oaks brings you a preview of how technology is transforming the way we drive.

A Future-Proof BMW X5

The production method for the BMW iX5 FCV entails outfitting a standard BMW X5 with two carbon-fiber hydrogen tanks, which serve as the fuel source for the car. According to the EPA’s cycles, these tanks at full capacity can get around 260 miles of range but only take a few minutes to refuel at a hydrogen station, compared to the multiple hours it takes to fully charge a standard electric vehicle.

The best part, and the end goal of all this innovation, is that the BMW iX5 FCV’s only emissions are electricity and water vapor, minimizing its environmental impact.

The Advantages of FCVs

An FCV presents a bevy of other advantages in comparison to a BEV. FCVs’ batteries tend to be much smaller and lighter, reducing the vehicle’s overall mass and requiring fewer rare earth metals to produce. You can feel this reduced weight in the smooth and controlled driving experience of the BMW iX5.

In addition, hydrogen fuel cells are more stable in cold temperatures, making an FCV more reliable overall. The BMW iX5 combats freezing water emissions in the cold by blasting compressed air to blow residual water into its drainage circuits.

The Future Starts at Sherman Oaks

For now, BMW is rolling out the BMW iX5 FCV in limited quantities as a pilot program, but it offers us a taste of what will come. Visit BMW of Sherman Oaks to glimpse the future of green driving today.