October 8, 2025 • 34 mins
Hydrogen-powered cars have never quite gotten off the ground. But BMW thinks the new iX5 Hydrogen coming in 2028 can change that.
On this special episode of the InsideEVs Plugged-In Podcast, brought to you in partnership with BMW, Patrick and Tim sit down with Dr. Michael Rath, the automaker’s VP of hydrogen vehicles.
They discuss the history of hydrogen-powered cars—from BMW’s first effort in the 1970s to its 12-cylinder engine that ran on liquified hydrogen to the iX5 Hydrogen going on sale soon. Dr. Rath explains why BMW is still betting big on hydrogen as a zero-emission option for people who can’t conveniently charge a conventional battery-powered EV.
The guys also ask about the challenges facing hydrogen fuel-cell EVs. What would it take to build out hydrogen fueling infrastructure in a major way? Will fuel-cell EVs ever be as popular as battery-powered ones? Are commercial vehicles the best application for this technology?
Stick around for this fascinating conversation about the future of BMW’s hydrogen-vehicle efforts.
On this special episode of the InsideEVs Plugged-In Podcast, brought to you in partnership with BMW, Patrick and Tim sit down with Dr. Michael Rath, the automaker’s VP of hydrogen vehicles.
They discuss the history of hydrogen-powered cars—from BMW’s first effort in the 1970s to its 12-cylinder engine that ran on liquified hydrogen to the iX5 Hydrogen going on sale soon. Dr. Rath explains why BMW is still betting big on hydrogen as a zero-emission option for people who can’t conveniently charge a conventional battery-powered EV.
The guys also ask about the challenges facing hydrogen fuel-cell EVs. What would it take to build out hydrogen fueling infrastructure in a major way? Will fuel-cell EVs ever be as popular as battery-powered ones? Are commercial vehicles the best application for this technology?
Stick around for this fascinating conversation about the future of BMW’s hydrogen-vehicle efforts.
Mark as Played
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!